Let's talk about the 90-second rule for CFA exam questions.
The Math Behind the 90-Second Rule
Here's how people get to 90 seconds:
The CFA Level 1 exam gives you 4.5 hours total.
That's 270 minutes split in morning and after session of 135 minutes each.
You have 90 questions in each session for a total of 180 questions.
Simple division: 135 ÷ 90 = 1.5 minutes or 90 seconds per question.
The Reality of Exam Timing
Not all questions take the same time.
Some ethics questions need careful reading.
Some math problems need more calculations.
Others you'll know right away.
A Better Way to Manage Your Time
Think of questions in three groups:
Quick Wins (less than 30 seconds):
Basic concept questions
Simple calculations
Questions you know cold
Standard Questions (30-90 seconds):
Most ethics questions
Standard calculations
Topics you're comfortable with
Speed Breakers (90+ seconds):
Complex calculations
Multi-step problems
Topics you find tough
Smart Time Management Strategy
Start with a quick scan of each section.
Mark questions as easy, medium, or tough.
Do the easy ones first.
Move to medium difficulty.
Save the tough ones for last.
Practice Tips That Work
Time yourself during practice tests.
Figure out which topics slow you down.
Practice those topics more.
Learn to spot "quick win" questions fast.
Common Time Traps to Avoid
Don't get stuck on one question.
Skip questions you can't solve quickly.
Come back to them later.
Don't second-guess your first answer too much.
Real Example: Ethics Question
Here's the tail end of a typical ethics question:
"…An analyst shares research with clients before publishing. Is this okay?"
Quick solve (30 seconds):
Spot the key issue (information sharing)
Remember the rule (fair dealing)
Pick your answer
No need for 90 seconds here!
Real Example: Math Question
"Calculate the duration of a 5-year bond with 6% coupon..."
This needs more time:
Write down the formula
Plug in numbers
Check your work
Verify the answer
Might take 120 seconds or more.
How to Get Faster
Practice similar questions together.
Learn to spot patterns.
Memorize key formulas.
Use your calculator efficiently.
Tips for Exam Day
Wear a watch - you'll need it.
Don't panic if some questions take longer.
Others will take less time.
It balances out.
The Bottom Line
Focus on question selection and multiple passes of the question paper.
Good time management comes from practice.
Know your strengths and weaknesses.
Plan your strategy around them.
Next Steps
Try timing yourself on practice questions.
Make note of which types slow you down.
Practice those more.
Build your own pace.
That's better than following a rigid 90-second rule.
[Updated: February 2025]
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