Preparing for AM/IM

I am a econ major. Whats the fastest way to learn about the basics of financial analysis, valuation, modeling needed for a job in AM/IM? Would buying the CFA books and studying off that prepare me enough, or do i need to dig into some textbooks on valuation (i have heard about damodoran's stuff) / WallStreetPrep for modeling?

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Not sure if thinking about the fastest way is the way to go. You're going to sacrifice proficiency. If you just want to pad your resume then ordering a few books from amazon should suffice. Damodoran is good but also look into Benninga. The books are about $70 and they will teach you about Excel modeling. If you want to be an analyst then I don't think CFA books will be enough (obviously no Excel material), plus the test covers a broad range of topics rather than preparing you for valuation and modeling. I'm on Level II and Level I just provides more of the basics imo.

I am an econ undergrad major and I found self-studying accounting quite challenging. A ~$400 investment on a more interactive teaching tool such as Wallstreetprep may be worth it. If you're really serious about it also consider enrolling at a CC/local public-college classes in accounting basics, financial valuation and modeling.

 

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