You have a finite number of study hours (typically 300-350). Reading the official text word-for-word takes approximately 400+ hours. Schweser cuts that to roughly 200 hours of reading, leaving you 150 hours for practice questions. Since Level 1 is about breadth (not depth), this trade-off is mathematically superior.
If you have embarked on the journey to earn the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation, you have likely encountered a near-deafening piece of advice: “Do not read the original CFA Institute curriculum.” Instead, the industry standard for over two decades has been the . schweser cfa level 1 notes
In this article, we will dissect the Schweser CFA Level 1 Notes, compare them to the official curriculum, analyze their pros and cons, and provide a strategic roadmap on how to use them to pass the exam on your first attempt. You have a finite number of study hours (typically 300-350)
Ultimately, the choice to use Schweser CFA Level 1 notes comes down to time management. For candidates who need a clear, focused, and efficient path through the Level 1 material, these notes provide a structured roadmap that removes the guesswork from studying. When paired with consistent practice and a rigorous mock exam schedule, they remain one of the most effective ways to transition from a candidate to a Level 1 pass. Since Level 1 is about breadth (not depth),
Kaplan Schweser's CFA Level 1 notes are widely considered the "gold standard"