Last Updated:October 23, 2026, 15:01 IST

Sakshi Chandak used relied on the AI tools to break down complex case laws and explain difficult concepts in simpler language.

Sakshi Chandak

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%.

Sakshi’s achievement reflects more than long hours of studying. A consistent performer since her school days, she credits her success to hard work, a structured routine and the support of her parents. She also incorporated artificial intelligence (AI) tools into her preparation to simplify difficult concepts and understand complex case laws.

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 used AI tools to strengthen her understanding of challenging subjects, particularly Audit and Law. 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.

Her preparation highlights how students can use AI tools as supplementary learning aids while preparing for demanding professional examinations.

Sakshi adapted her preparation method to the requirements of different subjects. 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.

According to her account, the supportive environment at home helped her remain emotionally steady and focused on her preparation.

Sakshi completed her Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) degree before securing the top rank in the CA Intermediate September 2026 examination. Her journey underlines the role of consistency, subject-specific preparation, regular revision and family support in competitive exam preparation.

For aspiring Chartered Accountants, her approach offers practical lessons in building a sustainable study routine and using technology to supplement traditional learning.

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