Ready for CA Inter FM SM? Exam Pattern & Study Tips
If you’re preparing for CA Intermediate and FM-SM is on your radar, understanding the paper pattern and strategic approach is critical. CA Ashish Kalra sir, known for his practical teaching style and high-scoring methodology, breaks down the structure of Paper 6 – FM SM (Financial Management & Strategic Management) in his very first class.
Let’s decode everything you need to know:
Paper 6 – FM SM Overview
| Section | Subject | Type | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Section A | Financial Management (FM) | Practical + MCQs | 50 |
| Section B | Strategic Management (SM) | Theory + MCQs | 50 |
| Total | 100 |
Tip from Sir: “Cost and FM are two of the most scoring papers. FM should be among your top 3 scorers if prepared with the right approach.”
Join Now: CA Intermediate FM SM Classes Online & Offline
Exam Writing Instructions
- Pen Allowed: Use only Black Pen.
- Highlighters: Not allowed (Underline only for emphasis).
- Answer Sheets: You will receive two separate sheets — one each for FM and SM.
- MCQ Marking: Fill OMR-style circles. No negative marking.
Section A – Financial Management (50 Marks)
MCQ Pattern (15 Marks)
| Type | Description | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Case-Based MCQs | 1 case + 5 questions | 10 |
| Independent MCQs | Small numerical-based 1-2 min questions | 5 |
- All are pure practical questions.
- No theory in FM MCQs.
- Expected Time: Finish within 15–18 minutes.
“Your target should be 9 out of 10 correct MCQs after 2 revisions.” – Ashish Kalra Sir
Read Also: CA Inter FM SM Fast Track Online Batch – Good for Preparation?
Descriptive Questions (35 Marks)
- Question 1 is compulsory (15 marks)
– Covers 2–3 chapters
– Typically split into sub-parts of 5 marks each - Choose any 2 out of next 3 questions (10 marks each)
| Question Type | Format | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Full-length question | Single 10-marker | 10 |
| Split questions | Two parts of 5 marks each | 10 |
Section B – Strategic Management (50 Marks)
MCQ Pattern (15 Marks)
| Type | Description | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Case-Based MCQs | 1 case + 5 questions | 10 |
| Independent MCQs | Straight theory-based 1-mark questions | 5 |
- 70–90% students get it right in the first go.
- Cases based on real-life business stories (e.g., Kingfisher, startups, brand war scenarios).
Descriptive Questions (35 Marks)
- Question 5 is compulsory – Contains 3 small case scenarios from SM topics
- Choose 2 out of next 3 questions – Each of 10 marks, usually simple theory questions
| Possible Theory Questions |
|---|
| What is Strategic Management? |
| Explain the Process of Strategy Formulation. |
| Importance and Limitations of Strategic Management. |
| Strategy: Proactive or Reactive – Discuss |
Sir recommends building comfort with case study MCQs first, then moving to theory revisions.
Read Also: ICAI CA Inter Costing (CMA) Books PDF
Sir’s Golden Tips for FM-SM Success
- Score Chart
- Costing → Highest scorer
- FM → Second highest
- SM / Law / Tax → Third
- Attempt Strategy
- MCQs first in exam for faster scoring
- Spend first 15 mins analyzing the 70-mark paper
- Prioritize practical over theory early in prep
- Revision Goal
- By second revision, you should get 9/10 MCQs correct
- Confidence Matters
- SM MCQs are intuitive – you’ll enjoy the cases if you understand the concept.
Join Now: CA Intermediate Classes Online & Offline
Conclusion
CA Ashish Kalra sir’s FM-SM strategy is precision-crafted for results. By following the paper pattern, managing time smartly, and mastering case-based MCQs, you can turn Paper 6 into your scoring weapon.
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