{"id":4550,"date":"2025-02-26T16:24:04","date_gmt":"2025-02-26T10:54:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.thewallstreetschool.com\/blog\/?p=4550"},"modified":"2025-09-17T15:59:03","modified_gmt":"2025-09-17T10:29:03","slug":"how-to-start-your-frm-part-1-preparation","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.thewallstreetschool.com\/blog\/how-to-start-your-frm-part-1-preparation\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Start Your FRM Part 1 Preparation?"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thewallstreetschool.com\/blog\/what-is-frm\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Financial Risk Manager<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (FRM) Part 1 exam is a globally recognised certification for risk professionals. The Global Association of Risk Professionals (GARP) administers it and focuses on financial risk assessment tools.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and is offered via computer-based testing (CBT) three times a year- in May, August, and November. Candidates get four hours to complete the test.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FRM part 1 preparation<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is no piece of cake. It takes hours of practice and studying the right materials. Read on to learn the correct way for your <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FRM part 1 preparation<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, its structure, and best practices.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FRM part 1 exam structure<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thewallstreetschool.com\/blog\/how-to-start-your-frm-part-1-preparation\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FRM part 1 exam preparation<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> starts with learning the weightage of the topics it has. This exam covers four primary topics:<\/span><\/p>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Topic<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Weightage<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Foundations of Risk Management<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">20%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Quantitative Analysis<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">20%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Financial Markets and Products<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">30%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Valuation and Risk Models<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">30%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How much time should you study?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The time required for <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FRM part 1 preparation<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> depends on your background, learning speed, and familiarity with financial risk concepts. On average, candidates spend 240 to 300 hours studying for the exam.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, study hours vary. Some manage with less than 100 hours, while others exceed 400 hours. For thorough preparation, aim for at least 300 hours to cover all topics, revise, and practice mock exams effectively. You can:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Leave 20 days for revision.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Divide the readings over the remaining days.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If studying part-time, plan around your work commitments.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Track progress using a study planner.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Increase intensity in the final 30 days.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Choosing the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FRM part 1 preparation<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> study material<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While preparing for an exam, selecting the right study material is critical. Do not use too many sources that can lead you to confusion.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You will find some great study material on the official GARP website, some on physical books, and video lectures for better reference. They are:<\/span><\/p>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Where to find<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Study material<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Description<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td rowspan=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">GARP official website<\/span><\/td>\n<td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thewallstreetschool.com\/blog\/frm-part-1-syllabus-fees-exam-pattern-salary-jobs\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FRM Exam Books Part I<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<td>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Official textbooks (eBooks or printed) covering the four main topics of FRM part I.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">eBooks are included with exam registration<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Practice exams<\/span><\/td>\n<td>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Complimentary full-length practice exams for Part I.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Option to purchase an additional exam for Part I.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Accessible via GARP Learning or candidate portal<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Video lectures<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Visual learners may find video lectures beneficial. Incorporating video sessions into your study plan can break the monotony of reading and cater to different learning styles.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Look for HD video classes, summarized notes, and mock tests. Choose trusted sites or sources that provide good video materials to study.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to study effectively?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A successful <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thewallstreetschool.com\/frm-part-1-coaching\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FRM part 1<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> preparation<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> depends on understanding concepts rather than rote memoriesation.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Financial risk is about applying theories. Use examples from real-world financial crises to understand applications.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">After completing a topic, write key formulas and concepts in your own words. These notes will be useful for revision.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some areas, like Value at Risk (VaR) and Options Pricing, are tough. Divide them into smaller sections and revisit them frequently.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you struggle with a topic, spend extra time learning its fundamentals before moving forward.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to practice questions?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Practising questions reinforces learning and improves problem-solving speed. Start early before the exam dates and solve questions after each topic to test understanding.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Apart from that, simulate real exam conditions by taking 100-question mock exams under timed conditions. Review incorrect answers carefully. Understand why you got them wrong and refine your approach.<\/span><b><\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Where to find practice questions?<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The GARP sample paper gets released one month before the exam. Besides, you can use physical books for some of the toughest questions. Moreover, there are video lectures are also good for concept-building with well-structured practice sets.<\/span><b><\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>How to use mock exams effectively?<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mock exams simulate real exam conditions and help improve time management. Take the test in one sitting with a strict four-hour limit. Adjust study plans based on test results. Take at least three full-length mocks before the actual exam.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Engaging with study groups<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Collaborative learning can offer new perspectives and insights. Join study groups for the exchange of ideas, clarification of doubts, and exposure to different problem-solving approaches. Teaching concepts to peers is also an effective way to reinforce your understanding.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Maintaining well-being<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Balancing study with self-care is essential. Adequate rest, regular exercise, and a healthy diet contribute to optimal cognitive function. Taking short breaks during study sessions can prevent burnout and maintain focus.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Conclusion<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FRM part 1 preparation<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> requires consistent study, effective time management, and rigorous practice. Start early, follow a structured plan, and use a mix of concept learning, problem-solving, and mock exams. Stick to reliable study materials, practice daily, and revise smartly.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With the right approach, clearing FRM Part 1 on your first attempt is possible. Good luck!<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FAQs<\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Can I pass FRM part 1 without a finance background?<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One might need extra effort to grasp financial concepts without a commerce background. Focus on the basics first, then use structured study materials and practice questions to strengthen your understanding.<\/span><b><\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Is self-study enough for <\/b><b>FRM part 1 preparation<\/b><b>?<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Self-study is possible with discipline. Use official GARP books, question banks, and online resources. However, coaching or video lectures can help if you struggle with specific topics.<\/span><b><\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>What is the best way to memorise formulas for FRM Part 1?<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Create a formula sheet, revise daily, and apply formulas in practice questions. Understanding concepts behind formulas makes retention easier than rote memorisation.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Financial Risk Manager (FRM) Part 1 exam is a globally recognised certification for risk professionals. The Global Association of Risk Professionals (GARP) administers it<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":4551,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_uf_show_specific_survey":0,"_uf_disable_surveys":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[26],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-4550","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-frm"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.thewallstreetschool.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4550","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.thewallstreetschool.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.thewallstreetschool.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.thewallstreetschool.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.thewallstreetschool.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4550"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/www.thewallstreetschool.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4550\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":4553,"href":"https:\/\/www.thewallstreetschool.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4550\/revisions\/4553"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.thewallstreetschool.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/4551"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.thewallstreetschool.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4550"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.thewallstreetschool.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4550"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.thewallstreetschool.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4550"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}