Sequence of Learning for CFA Level 2 for June 2019

Summary

In this video, the speaker explores two strategies for studying challenging topics: tackling difficult sections first or starting with easier ones. They advocate for the difficult-to-easy approach, allowing more time for reflection and problem-solving. The readings are categorized into easy, medium, and challenging levels, with a focus on subjects like equity, corporate finance, quantitative methods, and derivatives. The speaker emphasizes that revisiting complex topics and allowing time for understanding can lead to deeper insights and better questions, ultimately enhancing the learning experience.

Takeaways

• 😀 Tackling challenging topics first can enhance understanding and allow for cognitive reflection over time.
• 😀 Starting with easier sections may help build a solid foundation before approaching difficult content.
• 😀 Early engagement with complex problems (ideally two weeks in advance) is crucial for effective learning.
• 😀 Readings are categorized into easy, medium, and challenging levels to help structure study efforts.
• 😀 Easy topics include equity, corporate finance, and ethics, which are considered non-challenging.
• 😀 Medium-level topics include financial reporting and alternative investments, which may require more focus.
• 😀 Challenging topics encompass quantitative methods, economics, fixed income, and derivatives, requiring significant study effort.
• 😀 Familiarity with complex subjects over time can lead to 'aha' moments that enhance understanding.
• 😀 The strategy of starting with difficult sections allows for better question formulation and clarity in future studies.
• 😀 A combination of study strategies (difficult to easy or easy to difficult) can be tailored to individual preferences for optimal learning.

Q & A

What are the two approaches discussed for sequencing topics?

The speaker discusses two approaches: starting with easier sections and progressing to more difficult ones or tackling the difficult sections first to allow more time for reflection.

Why does the speaker prefer the difficult-to-easy approach?

The speaker believes that tackling the most challenging parts first allows their mind to reflect on these issues over time, leading to better understanding and problem-solving.

What is the significance of starting to think about difficult problems early?

Starting to think about difficult problems weeks in advance gives your mind time to process and work through the issues, which can lead to insights or solutions appearing later.

How are the readings categorized in the speaker's outline?

The readings are categorized into three buckets: easy, medium, and challenging, with specific topics identified in each category.

Which topics are identified as easy in the transcript?

The easy topics include equity, corporate finance, and ethics.

What makes the readings on pension compensation and currency translation challenging?

These readings are considered challenging due to their complexity and the intricate concepts involved.

What is noted about the new reading on financial institutions?

The new reading on the analysis of financial institutions is described as interesting but not challenging, serving more as an introduction.

Which areas are highlighted as particularly challenging at level two?

Quantitative topics such as economics, fixed income, and derivatives are highlighted as the most challenging.

What is said about the derivatives topic in the level two readings?

The derivatives topic is noted to include seven specific derivative contracts and concepts like options pricing, which can be complex.

How does the speaker view the relationship between challenging and easier topics?

The speaker suggests that starting with challenging topics can lead to better question formulation and understanding of easier topics as the learner processes the material over time.