Studying for the CFA Level 1 exam isn’t just about how much you study—it’s about what you study first. Many students begin their prep randomly or follow the textbook sequence, only to feel overwhelmed halfway through. That’s because CFA topics are deeply interconnected. If you don’t build the basics in the right order, the rest becomes confusing.
MasterCFA changes that with a smart, structured study path that’s designed to make your preparation smoother, faster, and more job-relevant.
Why Students Get the Order Wrong?
Most students choose FRA or Quant and everyone keeps Ethics for the end.
Everyone thinks they are ethical already.
But this strategy makes no sense.
It ignores topic weight, logical flow, and how the exam is actually structured.
What the Data Shows
The image below shows the actual exam weight of each topic, converted into the average number of questions expected. This helps determine exactly what should be studied first and why.
How to Use This Table to Study Smart
By looking at the average number of questions expected, you can clearly identify high-return topics. Instead of wasting time guessing what to study next, you follow the numbers.
Study These First – High Priority Topics
These topics carry the highest weight in the exam and should be studied first:
• Ethical and Professional Standards – 31 questions expected
• Financial Reporting and Analysis – 22 questions expected
• Equity Investments – 22 questions expected
• Fixed Income – 22 questions expected
These four alone make up a significant portion of the exam. Mastering them early builds the right foundation.
Study These Next – Mid Priority Topics
Once you’ve covered the high-yield topics, move on to these:
• Portfolio Management – 17 questions expected
• Alternative Investments – 16 questions expected
• Economics – 13 questions expected
These topics reinforce your understanding of financial markets and products.
Study These Last – Low Priority Topics
These topics are still important, but they carry less weight and are often easier to handle after your core knowledge is solid.
• Derivatives – 13 questions expected
• Quantitative Methods – 12 questions expected
• Corporate Issuers – 12 questions expected
These are often attempted first by students but doing so can lead to confusion and low retention. Save them for the final leg of your prep.
Why This Order Matters
A lot of CFA candidates waste time trying to figure out what to study next. MasterCFA removes that guesswork. With a carefully designed study path, you get the benefit of years of teaching experience packed into your prep plan.
You’re not just preparing for the exam—you’re laying the foundation for your career.
Ready to Study Smart?
MasterCFA shows you not just how to pass—but how to truly master the CFA Level 1 curriculum.
Follow the smart study order today.
Book a demo to see how it works in real time.
Or download the app and get started right away.
Common Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the best order to study CFA Level 1 topics?
A: Begin with foundational topics like Ethics, Financial Reporting, Equity, and Fixed Income. MasterCFA arranges them in a way that builds your knowledge step-by-step.
Q: How do I make a CFA Level 1 study plan?
A: You need one that gives enough time for each topic and follows a smart sequence. MasterCFA provides this automatically.
Q: How are CFA Level 1 topics connected?
A: Many concepts overlap. For example, Quant helps with Portfolio Management. MasterCFA’s plan shows these links.
Q: How can I prepare for CFA Level 1 and a finance job?
A: The structured study order also builds your job-ready skills. It’s more than just test prep—it’s career prep.
