FinSociety Blog
01Blog
Preparation, analyzed.
In-depth guides on CFA, CAT, and FRM examinations: curriculum changes, scoring strategy, topic prioritization, and study methodology. Written from published sources, with estimates labelled as estimates.
Curriculum Analysis
CFA Institute has published the 2027 Level 1 curriculum, representing the most substantial revision in recent years. Quantitative Methods expands sharply with the addition of financial data science and AI content. Ethics contracts. Four topics are renamed. This comprehensive analysis covers every change, the strategic reasoning behind each, and the precise adjustments candidates should make to their preparation timelines depending on their sitting window.
12 October 2026 · 9 minute read
CFA Strategy
Not all free mocks are worth your time. What makes a mock "quality," where to find free L1 mocks that match 2027 weights, and how to use them for maximum score gain.
19 October 2026 · 6 minute read
CAT Strategy
VARC, DILR, QA: each section is a standalone 40-minute exam. Target attempts, question selection, and the mental reset between locked sections.
19 October 2026 · 7 minute read
Examination Strategy
68 questions, 204 marks, three locked 40 minute sections. Beyond the numbers: scoring mechanics and the TITA opportunity, the topic hierarchy within Quantitative Ability, precision reading methodology for VARC, set selection strategy for DILR, and the integrated 120 minute simulation approach.
12 October 2026 · 8 minute read
Study Methodology
A systematic framework for converting official CFA Institute topic weights into an optimized study plan. The allocation principle, tier by tier analysis of all ten Level 1 topics, adaptation of the framework for Levels 2 and 3, and the weighted mock feedback cycle that turns a theoretical plan into an adaptive preparation system.
12 October 2026 · 10 minute read
Topics we cover
CFA Level 1
CFA Level 2
CFA Level 3
CAT
FRM
Study Strategy
Mock Analysis
