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Sakshi Chandak used relied on the AI tools to break down complex case laws and explain difficult concepts in simpler language.
Sakshi Chandak said consistency was one of the biggest factors behind her securing 502 out of 600 marks. (Image: Devendra Fadnavis/Facebook)
The Chartered Accountancy (CA) exam is considered one of the most challenging professional exams in India, requiring consistent preparation, discipline and a well-planned study strategy. Sakshi Chandak from Nashik, Maharashtra, demonstrated how focused preparation, family support and the effective use of technology can contribute to success. She secured All India Rank 1 in the CA Intermediate September 2026 exam, scoring 502 out of 600 marks, or 83.67%.
In an interview with India Today, Sakshi said consistency was one of the biggest factors behind her performance. She began preparing for the CA Intermediate examination in July 2025 and followed a disciplined daily schedule.
She typically woke up at 5 am and went to bed at 10:30 pm, studying for around 12 hours a day, with short breaks for breakfast, lunch and dinner. During the final phase of preparation, her study time increased to approximately 14 hours daily.
However, Sakshi emphasised the importance of effective time management rather than simply spending long hours with books. Maintaining consistency and using study time productively were central to her preparation strategy.
Sakshi also incorporated artificial intelligence (AI) tools into her preparation to simplify difficult concepts and understand complex case laws. She relied on the technology to break down complex case laws and explain difficult concepts in simpler language.
By using AI-generated explanations and practical examples, she could approach complicated legal and theoretical topics more easily. The approach helped her supplement conventional study methods and focus on conceptual clarity.
For Taxation, she focused on solving practical questions from the early stages of preparation. For memory-intensive subjects, including Strategic Management, she emphasised repeated revision.
For Audit, which requires a strong grasp of theoretical concepts, she followed a four-revision strategy. Revisiting the subject multiple times helped her reinforce key concepts and improve her command of the syllabus before the examination.
Like many CA aspirants, Sakshi experienced stress and self-doubt during the preparation period. She relied on her parents’ encouragement and guidance from her teachers to navigate these challenges.
She completed her Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) degree before securing the top rank in the CA Intermediate September 2026 exam. Her journey underlines the role of consistency, subject-specific preparation, regular revision and family support in competitive exam preparation.
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Ask News18Sakshi utilized artificial intelligence tools to break down complex case laws and explain difficult legal and theoretical concepts in simpler language, allowing her to supplement traditional study methods and enhance her conceptual clarity.
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October 23, 2026, 15:01 IST
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