Hailing from Bhopal, Priyanshi, who bagged the third rank in the CA Foundation Exam, belongs to a family who relates well to a business background. Motivation from her parents, maternal uncle and especially her elder brother led her to take up CA. Three to four hours of devoted studies enabled her to ace the examination with flying colours. Her go-getter attitude reflects not only in her academic record but also in other aspects of her life. Careers360 brings to you an interview with the topper wherein she shares her preparation strategies and the dos and don’ts for acing CA Foundation Exam.
Read the full CA Foundation topper interview 2019 of Priyanshi Saboo here.
Careers360: Kindly share about your childhood, family background, schooling and key inspirations in life. Share about your rank and score in CA Foundation 2019.
Priyanshi: I have been born and brought up in Bhopal. I passed my 12th standard from Navnidh School in Commerce stream with 92.4 percent marks. My parents and maternal uncle motivated me to take up CA and my role model from the very beginning was my elder brother who kept motivating me for achieving everything. I scored 343 marks out of 400 in CA Foundation with All India 3rd Rank.
Careers360: What were your feelings after attempting the exam? Were you sure of cracking it?
Priyanshi: Yes, I was quite sure of cracking it. I was certain about cracking it, however, the AIR 3 came to me as a surprise, as I had not expected such a high rank.
Careers360: Amidst your busy study regime, what would you do to revitalize yourself?
Priyanshi: I am a Kathak dancer so I used to dance, apart from painting and meeting friends at times.
Careers360: Which subject did you find easiest and which one toughest and why?
Answer: I found Maths quite easy because I had it in my Senior Secondary. I found Law a bit difficult because it required a bit conceptualised studies. We need to understand each and every case in that but the solution to it is only module reading.
Careers360: What made you choose CA Course?
Priyanshi: Since CA is the best field in commerce stream, my parents and relatives told me about that course. Then, I gave it a little thought and chose what was best.
Careers360: How were the exams? Would you like to share with us about planning, study hours, time table and daily efforts which you had put in during preparation for CA Foundation?
Priyanshi: Exams were pretty good. I started to plan for my exams way before and used to stick to my time-table. Since my target was AIR, I would study accordingly. Though study hours do not matter much, however, consistency does. I used to study around 3-4 hours daily before exams. Gradually, the preparation hours increased as per the set target, however still I would never compromise on my daily targets, no matter what. Only then I would hit the sack.
Careers360: While attempting the CA Foundation exams, which all factors need to be considered and what strategy works best?
Priyanshi: CA Foundation is an entry-level exam and it basically aims to check how capable are you for this course. So, try to increase your aptitude and focus on concepts. We do not need to be afraid of Maths but must use it to increase our aptitude. The best strategy is having fundamental clarity in all concepts. When they are clear, you can further learn and understand question better.
Careers60: Since you have reached your dream destination, so in your opinion, how has life changed for you now?
Priyanshi: I didn’t only target CA Foundation, my ultimate aim is to crack CA Final exam. But yes, life has definitely changed. Now I have to be more responsible for my career.
Careers360: What is more suitable according to you- self study or coaching? What is the role of coaching under CA Foundation programme?
Priyanshi: Self study is the basic requirement for every programme. Coachings are just additional for that.
Careers360: What all lies in between the beginning and the end of your day?
Priyanshi: Definitely studies, meeting friends, socializing and dancing.
Careers360: Talking from an overall perspective, which all elements would you attribute your success to?
Priyanshi: My parents, teachers and my hard work.
Careers360: What books did you refer for preparation?
Priyanshi: Only and only ICAI modules.
Careers360: Would you like to share some important learnings or focus areas for new aspirants and our readers from preparation point of view?
Priyanshi: If you are aiming for AIR, you cannot miss a single topic from the modules. Practice all the questions, illustrations, case studies because 60-70 percent of the percent of questions are comes from that and it is quite repetitive so you need to be thorough with it..
Careers360: Did official study material for CA Foundation provided at ICAI website play any relevance in your preparation?
Priyanshi: Yes definitely. It is like a holy grail for us. Every question comes from that only. Nothing comes from outside.
Careers360: Which educational background is more fitting to crack CA exam? Why?
Priyanshi: Any background will be suitable for CA exam. My friend from PCB background also cracked the CA Foundation exam with All India 40th Rank.
Careers360: What is your preparation strategy for Intermediate and Final exam now?
Priyanshi: My preparation strategy for Intermediate and FInal will also be the same. I will start preparing from day one only. I will not wait for the ending days to prepare myself for the exams.
Also Read:
CA Final Topper Interview 2019: Ajay Agarwal (AIR 1) - Pick up ICAI study material and revise thrice
Articles
Browse Finance Colleges by State
Explore Career Options (By Industry)
Budget Analyst
Budget analysis, in a nutshell, entails thoroughly analyzing the details of a financial budget. The budget analysis aims to better understand and manage revenue. Budget analysts assist in the achievement of financial targets, the preservation of profitability, and the pursuit of long-term growth for a business. Budget analysts generally have a bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, economics, or a closely related field. Knowledge of Financial Management is of prime importance in this career.
Data Analyst
The invention of the database has given fresh breath to the people involved in the data analytics career path. Analysis refers to splitting up a whole into its individual components for individual analysis. Data analysis is a method through which raw data are processed and transformed into information that would be beneficial for user strategic thinking.
Data are collected and examined to respond to questions, evaluate hypotheses or contradict theories. It is a tool for analyzing, transforming, modeling, and arranging data with useful knowledge, to assist in decision-making and methods, encompassing various strategies, and is used in different fields of business, research, and social science.
Underwriter
An underwriter evaluates insurance, loan, or investment applications to assess risk and decide on approval terms. They analyse data, set premiums or terms, and ensure policies align with regulations. Key skills include analytical thinking, attention to detail, and communication. Underwriters help financial institutions manage risk and maintain profitability by making informed decisions on which risks to accept.
Operations Manager
An Operations Manager ensures smooth business operations by overseeing departments like HR, finance, and supply chain. They implement processes, manage teams, maintain quality, ensure compliance, and plan strategically. Strong leadership, communication, and business knowledge are essential. Typically, they hold a degree in business or an MBA, playing a vital role in improving organisational efficiency and performance.
Finance Executive
A Finance Executive manages a company’s financial operations, including monitoring income, expenses, and preparing financial reports. They develop strategies to improve profits and reduce costs, ensuring financial stability. The role demands strong accounting and analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to meet deadlines, making it ideal for proactive individuals with a solid finance background.
Product Manager
A Product Manager drives a product’s success by planning strategy, analysing markets, and collaborating across teams. They focus on user needs, guide development, and monitor performance. With tech advancements like generative AI, PMs now enhance innovation and decision-making. Adaptability and continuous learning are key in this evolving, high-impact career.
Account Manager
An Account Manager plays a key role in bridging the gap between a company and its clients, ensuring smooth communication and fostering long-term partnerships. They are responsible for managing and nurturing client relationships, understanding their needs, and crafting tailored strategies to achieve mutual goals. Account Managers also gather and analyse client feedback to drive service improvements, while promptly addressing and resolving any issues that arise.
Bank Probationary Officer (PO)
A Bank Probationary Officer (PO) is an entry-level managerial role in the banking sector, involving responsibilities like handling customer queries, managing loans, overseeing cash flow, and supervising clerical staff. The role requires formal attire and offers opportunities for promotion to higher positions. After probation, the officer may specialise in areas like credit or risk management.
Welding Engineer
Welding Engineer Job Description: A Welding Engineer work involves managing welding projects and supervising welding teams. He or she is responsible for reviewing welding procedures, processes and documentation. A career as Welding Engineer involves conducting failure analyses and causes on welding issues.
QA Manager
A Quality Assurance (QA) Manager, synonymous with a Quality Assurance Manager, holds a pivotal role in ensuring products meet predefined standards. Responsible for planning, directing, and formulating control policies, the QA Manager safeguards company efficiency and profitability. By scrutinizing products for flaws and ensuring compliance with internal and external requirements, they uphold quality, validating the effectiveness of quality assurance teams in maintaining high standards before product release.
Quality Controller
A Quality Controller monitors and tests products to ensure they meet quality standards in industries like manufacturing and pharmaceuticals. They inspect materials, conduct tests, document defects, and suggest improvements. Key skills include technical knowledge, attention to detail, and analytical ability. Typically requiring an engineering degree, they can advance from junior to senior roles overseeing quality processes and teams.
Production Manager
A Production Manager oversees manufacturing processes, ensuring timely and budgeted delivery of products. Responsible for safe, cost-effective production meeting quality standards, their role adapts to the production system. Also known as an Operations Manager, they manage human and material resources, contributing to efficient production and service delivery.
Product Manager
A Product Manager drives a product’s success by planning strategy, analysing markets, and collaborating across teams. They focus on user needs, guide development, and monitor performance. With tech advancements like generative AI, PMs now enhance innovation and decision-making. Adaptability and continuous learning are key in this evolving, high-impact career.
Product Designer
Individuals who opt for a career as product designers are responsible for designing the components and overall product concerning its shape, size, and material used in manufacturing. They are responsible for the aesthetic appearance of the product. A product designer uses his or her creative skills to give a product its final outlook and ensures the functionality of the design.
Students can opt for various product design degrees such as B.Des and M.Des to become product designers. Industrial product designer prepares 3D models of designs for approval and discusses them with clients and other colleagues. Individuals who opt for a career as a product designer estimate the total cost involved in designing.
Textile Engineer
An individual in textile engineering jobs is creative and innovative that involves the application of scientific laws and principles in everyday work responsibilities. Textile engineering jobs include designing fiber processing systems and related machinery involved in the manufacturing of fiber, cloth, apparel and other related products.
Garment Technologist
From design to manufacture, garment technologists oversee every stage of clothing production. Individuals are actively engaged in determining the perfect fabric and ensuring that production remains inside the budget. Garment Technologists operate very closely with the designing team, pattern cutters and consumers.