Chartered Accountancy stands among the most rigorous and demanding professional examinations in India, often requiring years of dedicated preparation from aspirants across the country. While many candidates embark on this journey with the explicit ambition of securing top ranks, 18-year-old Ronak Kumar approached the challenge with a far more modest expectation. His primary objective was simply to clear both groups of the examination. Yet, through disciplined execution, consistent daily habits, and an effective study methodology, he managed to secure All India Rank (AIR) 14 in the CA Intermediate examination.
Managing Expectations and Delivering Exceptional Results
When Ronak sat for the ICAI CA Intermediate September 2026 examinations, his thoughts were focused entirely on achieving the passing threshold across both groups without excessive stress. However, when the results were officially declared on October 22, his overall score stood at 472 marks, placing him fourteenth nationwide. His individual subject performances formed the cornerstone of this high aggregate. Specifically, he demonstrated outstanding proficiency in practical papers, securing 92 marks in Advanced Accounting and 87 marks in Cost and Management Accounting.
Structured Routine and the Zero-Backlog Strategy
Ronak attributes his outstanding performance to a disciplined timetable and methodical execution. He commenced his preparation in November 2025 using recorded lectures. His daily study routine began at 8:00 AM, with distinct hours allocated to different subjects throughout the day. Crucially, he maintained a strict rule against accumulating backlogs or deferred study material. As soon as a lecture concluded, he immediately completed the associated homework and conceptual revision. This proactive routine prevented syllabus overload from accumulating and kept exam anxiety at bay.
Completing the Syllabus by May to Prioritise Mock Testing
Following a clear timeline, Ronak finished watching all his online lectures by the end of May 2026. Rather than taking an extended break, he transitioned straight into an intensive testing and problem-solving phase. He systematically solved Revision Test Papers (RTP), Mock Test Papers (MTP), and previous years' exam questions. This rigorous practice provided him with comprehensive familiarity regarding question formatting, marking schemes, and strict time allocation. To ensure total syllabus coverage, he employed digital and physical study trackers, ensuring no concept or chapter went unreviewed.
Turning Costing from a Weakness into a Key Strength
Nearly every competitive exam aspirant encounters a subject that presents persistent difficulties, and for Ronak, that subject was Costing. Even after finishing the syllabus lectures, he found himself grappling with multiple conceptual doubts. Instead of avoiding the subject, he chose to confront it directly through daily numerical practice and repeated conceptual reviews. His persistent efforts paid off handsomely, as he ended up scoring 87 marks in Cost and Management Accounting, proving that structured practice can transform an intimidating subject into a major scoring asset.
Aiming to Become the First CA in the Family
Following his breakthrough performance in the CA Intermediate 2026 results, Ronak has set his sights on the final tier of the qualification. He aspires to become the first chartered accountant in his family and is determined to secure an All India Rank in the CA Final examinations as well. Acknowledging his family's unwavering backing as his primary strength, he has mapped out a long-term professional roadmap. He intends to complete his professional training with a prestigious Big Four firm before pursuing a full-time career in investment banking.
