CPA Task-Based Simulations

Task-Based Simulations are application-level questions on the CPA Exam that require you to perform real accounting tasks like completing journal entries, navigating authoritative literature, analyzing exhibits, or reviewing documents. Unlike multiple-choice questions, TBS assess whether you can actually apply knowledge, not just recognize answers. They account for up to 50% of your score across all 6 CPA sections.

UWorld covers all major TBS formats tested on the CPA Exam: Document Review Simulations (DRS), journal entries, research tasks using authoritative literature like FASB, PCAOB, and IRC, dropdown tables, and exhibit-based questions. Each type has dedicated practice questions and TBS Mastery Video walkthroughs so you know exactly how to approach them.

UWorld’s TBS practice environment is designed to closely replicate the AICPA CPA Exam interface, including tab navigation between question and exhibits, the authoritative literature research tool, and input-based response formats. Practicing in a familiar interface reduces test-day anxiety and helps you focus on the content, not the technology.

TBS Mastery Videos are expert-led video walkthroughs that show you how to solve each type of simulation step by step. UWorld instructors think through the problem out loud, demonstrating strategies, decision-making, and time management. These videos are embedded inside SmartPath so they surface automatically alongside the relevant practice questions in your study flow.

SmartPath continuously evaluates your TBS performance by topic, section, and simulation type. It identifies where you are weakest and routes more practice toward those gaps, so you are not wasting time on concepts you have already mastered. It also schedules spaced re-tests to confirm long-term retention before your exam date.

UWorld includes 500+ Task-Based Simulations across all 6 CPA sections: AUD, FAR, REG, BAR, TCP, and ISC. Each TBS comes with a detailed written explanation so you understand not only the correct answer but also why and which accounting concept it tests.

The TBS Mastery Webinar Series is a free, 4-part live webinar series hosted by UWorld CPA instructors Jeanne Yamamura and Megan Burke. Each session tackles real TBS questions from AUD, FAR, and REG, covering strategies for different simulation formats, live step-by-step walkthroughs, time management techniques, and a live Q&A.

Yes, all sessions are completely free to attend. You can register for individual sessions or save your spot for the entire series. Visit events.uworld.com/tbs-mastery-series to register.

The webinars are taught by 2 experienced UWorld CPA instructors: Jeanne Yamamura, PhD, MIM, who specializes in auditing and information systems, and Megan Burke, PhD, CPA, who focuses on taxation and regulatory content. Both instructors bring decades of CPA exam teaching experience and have helped thousands of candidates pass.

You can access a limited set of TBS questions through UWorld’s free trial with no credit card required. A full subscription (Premier or Elite-Unlimited) unlocks the complete TBS library, all TBS Mastery Videos, SmartPath, and performance analytics.

Yes. UWorld’s mobile app supports TBS practice so you can stay productive on the go. The app adapts the simulation interface for mobile screens while preserving the core exam-like experience, including exhibit tabs and input fields.

TBS make up approximately 50% of the total score across AUD, FAR, and REG. The discipline sections BAR, TCP, and ISC also carry significant TBS weight, up to around 50% depending on the section. This makes TBS preparation one of the highest-leverage activities in your CPA study plan.