HAMIDH KHAN
Module 1 – Preparation and Examination Strategy
1. ESG
Part B (Risk Management) should be prepared very thoroughly, as it is a high-scoring and relatively straightforward section.
• Do not omit any topic under Risk Management.
• Ensure you are thorough with all the case studies, as questions are frequently framed around practical situations.
• Since this section is comparatively direct, a clear understanding of concepts can help you secure marks easily.
• During the examination, attempt Part B first and then move on to the other sections.
Part C
After completing Part B, proceed to Part C, which is another easy scoring area.
• This part contains only two chapters, but typically carries around 15 marks.
• As the syllabus is limited, it can be covered and revised thoroughly.
• Be clear about BRSR applicability, as questions are commonly asked from this area.
Part A
Part A should ideally be attempted last.
• This section generally contains practical and application-based questions, which require more time to read, interpret, and answer.
• Avoid starting the paper with this section, as it may consume valuable time early in the exam.
• Focus on structured answers with proper reasoning and relevant provisions wherever applicable.
2. Drafting
Drafting is largely practice-oriented, and familiarity with formats is crucial.
• Practice all drafting formats, including agreements, deeds, petitions, notices, and similar documents.
• Part B is an easy scoring section, so prepare it thoroughly without skipping any topic.
• Pay attention to smaller chapters, as questions may often be asked from these areas.
• Chapters 9 and 10 are comparatively easier for students with a law background, so they should be studied thoroughly.
• Always write clear and proper conclusions for drafting answers.
3. CMADD
Preparation for CMADD requires conceptual clarity and attention to detail.
Module 1 – Preparation and Examination Strategy
1. ESG
Part B (Risk Management) should be prepared very thoroughly, as it is a high-scoring and relatively straightforward section.
• Do not omit any topic under Risk Management.
• Ensure you are thorough with all the case studies, as questions are frequently framed around practical situations.
• Since this section is comparatively direct, a clear understanding of concepts can help you secure marks easily.
• During the examination, attempt Part B first and then move on to the other sections.
Part C
After completing Part B, proceed to Part C, which is another easy scoring area.
• This part contains only two chapters, but typically carries around 15 marks.
• As the syllabus is limited, it can be covered and revised thoroughly.
• Be clear about BRSR applicability, as questions are commonly asked from this area.
Part A
Part A should ideally be attempted last.
• This section generally contains practical and application-based questions, which require more time to read, interpret, and answer.
• Avoid starting the paper with this section, as it may consume valuable time early in the exam.
• Focus on structured answers with proper reasoning and relevant provisions wherever applicable.
2. Drafting
Drafting is largely practice-oriented, and familiarity with formats is crucial.
• Practice all drafting formats, including agreements, deeds, petitions, notices, and similar documents.
• Part B is an easy scoring section, so prepare it thoroughly without skipping any topic.
• Pay attention to smaller chapters, as questions may often be asked from these areas.
• Chapters 9 and 10 are comparatively easier for students with a law background, so they should be studied thoroughly.
• Always write clear and proper conclusions for drafting answers.
3. CMADD
Preparation for CMADD requires conceptual clarity and attention to detail.
• Be thorough with all the CSAS.
• The initial chapters may contain minute details, which are important for case-based questions, so study them carefully.
• Do not ignore the smaller chapters; ensure they are covered fully.
• Understand the concepts of compounding clearly.
• Wherever relevant, study the provisions relating to penalties and punishments.
• The initial chapters may contain minute details, which are important for case-based questions, so study them carefully.
• Do not ignore the smaller chapters; ensure they are covered fully.
• Understand the concepts of compounding clearly.
• Wherever relevant, study the provisions relating to penalties and punishments.
SUPRAJA
ESG:
Start with Part 2 & Part 3 as they are shorter and easier. Risk Management may feel dry, so revise it 2–3 times. Part 3 is quite scoring. In Part 1, focus mainly on the first few lessons and CS as a Profession; case studies can be read lightly when you have time.
CMADD:
Begin with Part 1 since it’s comparatively easier. Last 2 lessons of Part A are important. The audit process techniques lesson can be dry, so try to finish it early and revise at least twice. Aim to cover *Part A fully.
Drafting, Pleadings & Appearances:
Finish the theory portions first. Keep drafts for the end and practise by checking the last 3–4 attempts’ question papers to identify patterns. In Part 2, Appearances topics are easy, and SEBI & penalties should be studied thoroughly.
CSR (Open Book):
Concepts are simple and practical. Focus on clear writing, neat presentation, and attempting the full paper.
Start with Part 2 & Part 3 as they are shorter and easier. Risk Management may feel dry, so revise it 2–3 times. Part 3 is quite scoring. In Part 1, focus mainly on the first few lessons and CS as a Profession; case studies can be read lightly when you have time.
CMADD:
Begin with Part 1 since it’s comparatively easier. Last 2 lessons of Part A are important. The audit process techniques lesson can be dry, so try to finish it early and revise at least twice. Aim to cover *Part A fully.
Drafting, Pleadings & Appearances:
Finish the theory portions first. Keep drafts for the end and practise by checking the last 3–4 attempts’ question papers to identify patterns. In Part 2, Appearances topics are easy, and SEBI & penalties should be studied thoroughly.
CSR (Open Book):
Concepts are simple and practical. Focus on clear writing, neat presentation, and attempting the full paper.
HARIPRIYA
ESG:
Focus on Part B and Part C first, as the content may appear similar and slightly confusing. Revise these parts at least 4–5 times for better clarity and retention. You may also refer to Prof. Darshan Dhoka’s YouTube channel, especially for Lesson 18, for easy memory techniques.
For Part A, prioritize important lessons such as Lessons 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, and 10, and then cover the remaining chapters. If time is limited, focus on important topics and frequently repeated questions.
CMADD:
You may refer to Ms. Muskan Gupta’s YouTube videos, which are helpful for both reading and revision (each video is around 40–50 minutes). Start with Part A, as the last two lessons in Cmadd are repeated in Drafting (Lessons 12 and 13), and then proceed with the other lessons.
Drafting:
Begin with the theory portion and then move to drafts. Instead of reading every line, note down common points applicable to multiple drafts and specific points for individual drafts.
Lesson 1 – Important for both theory and drafts
Lessons 3 and 8 – Important for theory
In Part B, Lesson 12 is lengthy, so it is better to complete it first. However, during last-minute revision, avoid starting with lengthy lessons as it may take more time.
CSR:
Read all chapters once and prepare a topic-wise index (including smaller topics) in your notes for quick reference. Since many Part - A contents are repeated, strike off the repeated portions so that it will be easier to locate topics during exams.
Sandhya M
ESG – The most important chapters are 18, 19, 20, 3, 4, and 5. These chapters are likely to be tested for more than 60 marks. Make sure to read these chapters thoroughly. Do not skip anything from the supplementary material related to these chapters as well. 📚✅
DPAA – Concentrate equally on theory and drafts. Ensure that your drafts are precise and to the point, and do not let them run into too many pages, as it may consume time needed for other questions. ✍️⏳
CMADD – This subject is highly practical, and most of you would have gained relevant experience during your training. Approach it with interest and enjoy reading it. 📘🙂
Open Book – Choose your open book material wisely. Make sure you are familiar with the pages and know exactly where to find the required information, as this will save valuable time during the exam. Prepare a list of important case laws in advance or use materials compiled by various academies for quick reference. 📑🔍✨
BHARGAV
For ESG preparation, I referred to YES Academy – Chirag Sir’s notes, which were extremely helpful. I also watched his marathon videos on YouTube. Due to time constraints, I couldn’t attend any full classes.
SRI RANJANI
Part A in ESG is slightly lengthier to cover. But what I would suggest is to prepare a one-page mind map to all the chapters, firstly those chapters that has all the topics covered in easy words so that it becomes easier for us to revise. Cover the company law sections in the initial chapters first, those are the core concepts checked in the examination, we can proceed to cover the other chapters like green initiatives and other environment related chapters later in order, all of them are easily understandable, but requires a lot of revisions.
Sakshi Dave
CSR:
Read all chapters once and prepare a topic-wise index (including smaller topics) in your notes for quick reference. Since many Part - A contents are repeated, strike off the repeated portions so that it will be easier to locate topics during exams.
Sandhya M
DPAA – Concentrate equally on theory and drafts. Ensure that your drafts are precise and to the point, and do not let them run into too many pages, as it may consume time needed for other questions. ✍️⏳
CMADD – This subject is highly practical, and most of you would have gained relevant experience during your training. Approach it with interest and enjoy reading it. 📘🙂
Open Book – Choose your open book material wisely. Make sure you are familiar with the pages and know exactly where to find the required information, as this will save valuable time during the exam. Prepare a list of important case laws in advance or use materials compiled by various academies for quick reference. 📑🔍✨
BHARGAV
For ESG preparation, I referred to YES Academy – Chirag Sir’s notes, which were extremely helpful. I also watched his marathon videos on YouTube. Due to time constraints, I couldn’t attend any full classes.
SRI RANJANI
Part A in ESG is slightly lengthier to cover. But what I would suggest is to prepare a one-page mind map to all the chapters, firstly those chapters that has all the topics covered in easy words so that it becomes easier for us to revise. Cover the company law sections in the initial chapters first, those are the core concepts checked in the examination, we can proceed to cover the other chapters like green initiatives and other environment related chapters later in order, all of them are easily understandable, but requires a lot of revisions.
Sakshi Dave
1. For the module 1, if you have chosen CSR, make sure you highlight or mark the points in advance in your text book or reference material which will help you to write the answers.
2. Make an index of all the topics which will help you to locate where the answer is easily
3. Maintain a separate sheet for case law references
4. if possible, try remembering the basic section requirements of Section 135 and its rules which will save time during exam, otherwise for even the easiest questions, you will have to keep referrring the book again and again.
5. Keep a time target for each question. Make the answers crisp because the open book question papers are generally very lengthy.
6. Attempt the questions that you know first
7. Atleast write one model paper before exam which will give you a better clarity on the time management.
RAJENDIRAN
PAPER 1 – ESG
I attended institute faculty classes and listened to recorded sessions multiple times.
I studied annual reports to understand ESG reporting, BRSR and sustainability audit.
I prepared a glossary for technical terms in Environment, Data Governance and Green Initiatives chapters.
I focused more on understanding concepts rather than memorising all statistics.
I prepared separate handwritten notes for Risk Management case studies which made a significant difference.
PAPER 2 – DRAFTING, PLEADINGS & APPEARANCES
I attended faculty classes sincerely and practised drafting resolutions regularly & maintained a handwritten notebook for resolutions.
I also read postal ballot notices and resolutions of companies.
This was the favourite subject and I consistently scored above 50 marks.
PAPER 3 – COMPLIANCE MANAGEMENT, AUDIT & DUE
DILIGENCE (CMADD)
I concentrated on understanding adjudication, appeals, reliefs and SEBI provisions.
AI tools helped decode penalty provisions under the Companies Act and SEBI.
I classified misconduct under Schedule I and II of the Code of Conduct to understand applicability.
I prepared a handwritten index of case laws with brief notes.
I also revised audit principles, techniques, process, documentation and secretarial audit.
PAPER 4 – CSR ELECTIVE
I repeatedly studied Section 135, CSR Rules and related schedules.
I prepared a handwritten index and read the module multiple times.
Social Governance in Part II is the saviour in this paper.
If Part I CSR is revised strategically, the paper becomes manageable.
Smart work is required here which I lacked in earlier attempts.
SARANA
Paper 1 – ESG (Environmental, Social & Governance)
A practical way to begin ESG preparation is to start with Part B – Risk Management. Even though it is just one chapter, it carries around 20 marks, which makes it one of the most important and high-yield areas in the paper. Since the chapter is concise but conceptually important, completing it first helps build confidence and gives a strong start to the subject.
After Risk Management, it is advisable to move to Part C. This part also carries important marks but contains comparatively fewer chapters, so it can be covered efficiently once the basics are clear.
Finally, move to Part A. Students should not skip any chapter in this section, because questions can come from any individual topic. A good way to approach Part A is to relate the concepts with practical regulatory frameworks such as the Companies Act, 2013, Secretarial Standards issued by the Institute of Company Secretaries of India, and the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015. Studying ESG with these connections makes the subject easier to understand and remember.
Paper 2 – Drafting, Pleadings & Appearances
Drafting is a paper where consistent practice makes a noticeable difference. The best preparation strategy is to practice at least one draft every day. This helps students become comfortable with the format, legal language and structure required for different documents.
It is important to remember that both Section A and Section B contain a mix of drafting and theoretical aspects, so students should give equal importance to both sections.
Rather than memorizing full drafts, students should focus on understanding the structure and essential components of each document. Preparing skeleton drafts with key clauses and headings can make revision much quicker and help recall the format easily during the exam. With regular practice, students will find it easier to structure drafts confidently within the exam time.
Paper 3 – Compliance Management, Audit & Due Diligence (CMADD)
For CMADD, a useful strategy is to start with Part B, which covers CSAS 1, 2, 3 and 4. These standards form the conceptual foundation of compliance management and audit practices. Once these concepts are clearly understood, the remaining chapters become easier to follow.
This paper requires strong conceptual clarity, as questions are often framed in a way that expects students to apply compliance principles to practical situations. Therefore, instead of focusing only on memorizing points, students should understand the reasoning behind compliance frameworks, audit processes and due diligence practices. Building clarity in these concepts helps in writing precise and well-structured answers during the exam.
Paper 4 – CSR (Open Book Paper)
CSR is an open book paper, and with the right preparation it can be a scoring subject. The most important factor in this paper is time management. A practical approach in the exam is to start with Part B first and then move to Part A, as this can help in managing time effectively across the paper.
Even though the exam allows reference to the book, students should study the module thoroughly in advance. The material in the exam hall is meant only for quick reference, not for learning the concepts during the exam.
Preparing a well-structured index is extremely helpful. A clear chapter-wise index with marked important topics allows students to locate information quickly without spending too much time searching through the material.
For CMADD, a useful strategy is to start with Part B, which covers CSAS 1, 2, 3 and 4. These standards form the conceptual foundation of compliance management and audit practices. Once these concepts are clearly understood, the remaining chapters become easier to follow.
This paper requires strong conceptual clarity, as questions are often framed in a way that expects students to apply compliance principles to practical situations. Therefore, instead of focusing only on memorizing points, students should understand the reasoning behind compliance frameworks, audit processes and due diligence practices. Building clarity in these concepts helps in writing precise and well-structured answers during the exam.
Paper 4 – CSR (Open Book Paper)
CSR is an open book paper, and with the right preparation it can be a scoring subject. The most important factor in this paper is time management. A practical approach in the exam is to start with Part B first and then move to Part A, as this can help in managing time effectively across the paper.
Even though the exam allows reference to the book, students should study the module thoroughly in advance. The material in the exam hall is meant only for quick reference, not for learning the concepts during the exam.
Preparing a well-structured index is extremely helpful. A clear chapter-wise index with marked important topics allows students to locate information quickly without spending too much time searching through the material.
****
*****
