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• # 55279
• Fri 18 Mar 2011 01:04 PM

Hi

I am new to this forum, just joined today to take level 1 which, I just passed so feeling very pleased!  I am self-studying and I just wanted your advice on level 2.  I am new to bookkeeping and am doing it as me and my husband are starting up a new business so its purely to have an understanding of the business.  For level 2, do I have to study the manual first or can I go straight to level 2 comp.  Do they cover the same topics or is it advisable to do level 2 manual first then the comp.  Thanks for your help.

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• # 55280
• Fri 18 Mar 2011 01:24 PM

I did Level 2 comp first, and am studying for level 2 manual at the moment (got exam in 2 weeks) Although I aced Level 1 and level 2 comp (99% in both exams) I have found that I'm really only properly understanding it now I'm doing the manual side at level 2.  I wish I'd done it first.  I'm also glad I didn't have any clients with just level 2 comp as I feel my understanding was not what it should have been.  Can't really advise you on your situation but this is how it is for me.
Hope this helps.

• Andrea Blake AICB CB Cert. PM Dip.
  www.approachaccounting.co.uk

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• # 55282
• Fri 18 Mar 2011 01:41 PM

I did my courses through a package with Training-Link, they sent me Comp L2 course before the Manual L2 but I would agree with Andrea the Manual L2 gives you a better understanding.

There is also the software, most of the trial versions available aren't suitable for the exam because you can't produce the required reports. Whereas to do the Manual all you need is a pen, paper and calculator - although I guess most people use excell or open office.

I would do the manual first, computerised then becomes a doddle, once you have access to a software package.

Mike

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• # 55294
• Fri 18 Mar 2011 08:16 PM

Mikeee said:

"... computerised then becomes a doddle, once you have access to a software package."

Mike”


 

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• # 55295
• Fri 18 Mar 2011 08:37 PM

Thanks for your answers - will start on manual first then.  Could I just ask - for level 1 I used textbooks Cox, Wood & Sangster and Dr Peter Marshall.  Do you think these will be sufficient for level 2 or do I need any other resources.  Also for the comp exam can anyone recommend appropriate textbooks for Sage.  I don't want to do a training course for Sage as I.T is my background and I am sure I will be able to pick it up myself.  Thanks

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• # 55296
• Fri 18 Mar 2011 08:56 PM

Hi Shazans
I used Kaplan manuals both for my Level 2 and Level 3 exams. The best way however is to work through past question papers. All this material can be ordered from the Institute shop. With regards to Sage try 'Sage 50 Accounts for Dummies' by Jane Kelly. If you are really keen have a look at the Sage website, there is a training area where you can order workbooks for all levels along with special training software. Good luck !

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• # 55297
• Fri 18 Mar 2011 09:00 PM

Dave said:

“Hi Shazans
I used Kaplan manuals both for my Level 2 and Level 3 exams. The best way however is to work through past question papers. All this material can be ordered from the Institute shop. With regards to Sage try 'Sage 50 Accounts for Dummies' by Jane Kelly. If you are really keen have a look at the Sage website, there is a training area where you can order workbooks for all levels along with special training software. Good luck !”

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• # 55309
• Sat 19 Mar 2011 11:58 AM

I would do manual first if you are new to bookkeeping. Amazon maybe cheaper for text books. 
Good luck with studying. 

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