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How to Pass the Series 86/87 Exams

Filed in: Series 86, Series 87, Study Tips

How to Pass the Series 86/87 Exams

A Short Exam Does Not Necessarily Make for an Easy Exam.

This is certainly the case with the Series 87, FINRA’s qualification exam for Research Analyst’s. This statement summarizes FINRA’s Series 87 exam for Research Analyst to a tee. With only 55 questions (50 graded, plus 5 ungraded experimental questions) candidates have little room for error to achieve the 74% score required to pass. Fortunately for you, Knopman Marks has a proven study plan for you to follow. The Series 87 At a Glance Study Guide gives you streamlined guidance for a winning study strategy. Put it to use and you will be on your way to achieving the passing score you need.

The Series 87 is Part 2 of the credential needed to qualify as a Research Analyst. It tests two job functions, Preparation of Research Reports and Dissemination of Information, and can be taken only by persons that have previously passed the Series 7, 17, 37 or 38. Its co-requisite, the Series 86, is Part 1 of the qualification requirement. However, persons who have passed CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) or CMT (Chartered Market Technician) Levels 1 and 2 are not required to pass the Series 86.

Knopman Marks Expert Instruction Tips

Knopman Marks instructors give students the insights and tips they need to gain confidence for exam success. A class can make all the difference, so don’t miss the opportunity to use them as part of your study plan.

Below are three exclusive instructor insights to point you in the right direction as you begin your Series 87 journey:

  1. Knopman Notes and Supplements are critical. Make sure you read them carefully, and more than once! They will effectively summarize the most testable points from lengthy and complex FINRA and SEC rules. FINRA Rule 2241, FINRA Rule 5130, Regulation AC, and Regulation FD are heavily tested
  2. The exam’s focus is concentrated on Chapters 3, 4, 5, and 6 of the manual. Re-read these chapters and complete extra questions on these topics to ensure you master this information.
  3. 450 is a magic number. Complete at least 450 practice questions from the Knopman Testprep site to be ready to pass the exam.

Good Luck!

Success on any Series exam requires significant commitment and effort. Knopman Marks simplifies the process with expert materials and study strategies. We are fully committed to your success and are available to provide help when you need it. Contact us at material@knopman.com for support at any time.

Written by Marcia Larson

Marcia Larson is Vice President, Faculty, at Knopman Marks Financial Training, New York, NY. She has extensive experience in financial licensing and regulatory training, having authored, developed and presented courseware for numerous securities and insurance exam preparation and continuing education and compliance programs. Before joining Knopman Marks, Marcia was Director of Annuity Products and Business Development at CUNA Mutual Group, where she developed and marketed industry-leading annuity products and retirement solutions and implemented distribution relationships. She was previously VP, Securities Products for Kaplan Financial, managing securities training products and subsequently, international training and businesses development. Marcia has trained thousands of financial industry exam candidates throughout their careers, and also college students as an adjunct professor. Marcia was a summa cum laude graduate of Wartburg College with degrees in Business Administration and Piano Performance. Marcia also holds the designations of Chartered Financial Consultant® (ChFC®), Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU®), Certified Employee Benefit Specialist (CEBS), and Fellow Life Management Institute™ (FLMI®). She currently teaches the SIE, Series 6, 7, 24, 50, 52, 63, 65, and 66 exams.

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