Wiley CPAexcel Exam Review 2015 Study Guide (January): Business Environment and Concepts

Chapter 5: Exam Content Overview

The content of the Business Environment and Concepts (BEC) examination includes a number of general business and accounting topics. The areas are covered as shown below.

Topic	Percentage
Corporate Governance	16–20
Economic Concepts and Analysis	16–20
Financial Management	19–23
Information Systems and Communication	15–19
Strategic Planning	10–14
Operations Management	12–16

The BEC section of the exam tests knowledge and skills using multiple-choice questions and written communication skills using task-based simulations.

The basic concepts for preparation are the same as for other sections of the exam. You need to have the skills and knowledge necessary to solve both how (number crunching) and why (conceptual) type questions. In addition, you must be prepared for the simulations that require written communication.

First, become acquainted with the nature of the BEC exam itself. With the computerization of the exam, the AICPA has issued a set of content specifications. These content specifications are printed below.

Relatedly, you should evaluate your competence by working 10 to 20 multiple-choice questions from each of the modules (40–47). This diagnostic routine will acquaint you with the specific nature of the questions tested on each topic as well as indicate the amount of study required per topic. However, do not get discouraged. Remember, more difficult questions are more heavily weighted in determining your score. See discussion ...