Best Series 86 Study Guides for Exam Success

Preparing for the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) Series 86 exam is a significant step for anyone aspiring to be a research analyst for a broker-dealer. This exam tests your knowledge in key areas essential for the role. With a recommended 80 hours of study over four weeks, the preparation process can be daunting.

Fortunately, there are excellent resources available to help you succeed. From comprehensive study guides to interactive online courses, finding the right materials can significantly boost your confidence and readiness. Let’s explore the best study options to ensure you are well-prepared for the Series 86 exam.

Key Takeaways

• Various study guides and courses are available for Series 86 exam preparation.
• Dedicated studying for 80 hours over four weeks is recommended.
• Resources like instructor support and tech assistance can aid your preparation.

#1 Securities Training Corporation Series 86 Review Course

The Securities Training Corporation (STC) Series 86 Review Course is designed for serious candidates who aim to pass the Series 86 exam on their first attempt. STC has a long-standing reputation for offering high-quality exam prep courses, and its Series 86 Review is no exception. This course offers several packages, catering to both self-motivated learners and those who prefer guided study. So, whether you need a comprehensive review or targeted practice, STC provides a robust set of tools to help you succeed.

Course Overview

STC offers two primary packages for the Series 86 exam: the Standard and Premier packages. The Standard package is priced at $275.00, which includes essential study materials, practice exams, and instructor support, making it ideal for those on a budget. The Premier package, at $395.00, offers additional resources such as on-demand lectures, flashcards, and more practice exams, along with a pass guarantee. Both packages are designed to provide a thorough understanding of the exam content, with the Premier package offering extra resources for those who prefer a more comprehensive study plan.

Key Features

• Comprehensive Study Material: Access in-depth and up-to-date study guides covering all exam topics.
• On-Demand Video Lectures: Learn at your own pace with video lectures available anytime.
• Practice Exams: Test your knowledge with practice exams that simulate the actual test environment.
• Expert Support: Get instructor support for any questions or guidance you need.
• Customizable Study Plans: Tailor your study schedule with customizable plans that fit your timeline.
• Pass Guarantee: If you don’t pass the exam, you’ll receive further support or a refund.

Pros

• Comprehensive Support: The instructor hotline and 24-hour tech support are invaluable resources, particularly if you encounter challenging topics or technical issues. This level of support ensures you have help when you need it, preventing frustration and helping you stay on track throughout your study period.
• Flexible Study Options: The availability of both print and online materials means you can choose the format that best suits your learning style. This flexibility is particularly beneficial if you prefer to study on the go, use different devices, or adapt your study methods to different environments.
• Extensive Exam Practice: With a variety of practice exams, including final, progress, and Green Light exams, you can thoroughly test your knowledge and gauge your readiness. These exams simulate the actual test environment, which can help reduce anxiety on exam day and give you a clearer understanding of your strengths and weaknesses.
• Pass Guarantee: The pass guarantee offered with the Premier package provides an added layer of security. It’s reassuring to know that if you don’t pass, you’ll receive additional support or a refund, which can be a confidence booster during your studies and minimizes the financial risk.
• Comprehensive Course Materials: The STC course includes a wide range of study materials, from detailed textbooks to focused flashcards. This diversity allows you to engage with the content in multiple ways, catering to different learning preferences and helping reinforce your understanding of complex topics.

Cons

• Higher Cost for Premier Package: While the Premier package offers a comprehensive set of tools, the $395.00 price tag may be steep for some candidates, especially those on a tight budget. However, the extensive resources and pass guarantee may justify the cost for many, particularly if they prefer a more guided and comprehensive study experience.
• Limited Interaction in Standard Package: The Standard package, while affordable, might not offer as much direct interaction with instructors or peers, which can be a drawback if you thrive in a more collaborative or guided learning environment. This could make it harder to get personalized feedback or clarify difficult concepts.
• Time-Consuming: The extensive range of materials and exams can be overwhelming, particularly if you’re balancing studying with work or other commitments. It requires a significant time investment, and you’ll need to manage your schedule carefully to avoid burnout or becoming overwhelmed by the sheer volume of content.
• Less Emphasis on Real-World Applications: While the STC course is excellent for passing the exam, it may not focus as much on applying the knowledge in real-world scenarios. This could be a disadvantage if you’re looking for training that goes beyond exam preparation and helps you build practical skills for your career.

#2 Mometrix Test Preparation Series 86 Study Material

Mometrix is known for a very straightforward approach to exam preparation. The Series 86 Study Material from Mometrix aims to help candidates who prefer to study independently without the need for interactive or guided instruction. Their study materials are prepared by experienced research analysts who focus on helping you understand how to pass the exam, offering a blend of exam strategies and content review.

Course Overview

Priced at $72.99, the Mometrix Series 86 Study Guide is available in both printed and e-book formats, offering flexibility depending on your preferred study method. Unlike online courses with expiration dates, this guide provides unlimited access, making it a valuable resource even after the exam. The guide includes a detailed study plan, test-taking strategies, and a unique 5-step calibration strategy designed to improve your exam performance.

Key Features

• Concise Study Material: Get straight to the point with clear and focused content.
• Test-Taking Strategies: Learn effective strategies to approach different question types.
• Practice Questions: Reinforce your knowledge with practice questions included in the guide.
• Efficient Study Tips: Utilize tips designed to help you study smarter, not harder.
• Portable Format: Enjoy the convenience of a portable study guide that you can take anywhere.

Pros

• Affordable: At $72.99, the Mometrix guide is an excellent value. It offers comprehensive content at a fraction of the cost of more extensive courses, making it a great option for budget-conscious candidates who still want quality preparation and are comfortable with self-directed learning.
• Unlimited Access: Unlike courses that expire after a certain period, this guide can be used indefinitely, which is beneficial if you need to take a break or want to use the material for future reference. The lack of time constraints allows for more flexible study schedules, reducing stress and pressure.
• Practical Study Techniques: The inclusion of a detailed study plan and test-taking strategies helps you study more effectively, ensuring you focus on the most important content and improve your test performance. These techniques help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, allowing you to tailor your study approach accordingly.
• Money-Back Guarantee: The pass guarantee provides peace of mind, knowing that if the guide doesn’t help you pass, you won’t be out of pocket. This shows Mometrix’s confidence in its material and adds a layer of financial protection for candidates.
• Concise and Focused Content: The guide is well-organized and focuses on the most critical information you need to pass the exam. This makes it easier to study and helps prevent information overload, which can be a common issue with more extensive resources.

Cons

• Lacks Interactive Elements: Mometrix is a self-study guide that does not offer interactive elements such as practice exams, flashcards, or instructor support. This could be a drawback if you learn better through interaction and need more hands-on practice or guidance.
• No Online Learning Platform: Mometrix does not offer an online learning platform or app, which limits the accessibility and convenience of studying on the go. This could be a disadvantage if you prefer to study on multiple devices or need more mobile-friendly options.
• Limited Depth in Certain Areas: While the guide covers all the exam topics, it may not delve into the same level of detail as more comprehensive courses, which could leave gaps in your knowledge. This could be a concern if you’re aiming for a particularly high score or if you need a deeper understanding of certain topics.
• Minimal Real-World Application: The guide focuses primarily on passing the exam, with less emphasis on how the knowledge applies in real-world scenarios. This could be a limitation if you’re looking for a resource that also prepares you for practical work as a research analyst.
• No Access to Live Support: Unlike courses that offer instructor hotlines or forums, Mometrix does not provide any form of live support or peer interaction, which can be isolating if you encounter difficulties or need clarification on certain topics.

#3 Quizlet Series 86 Exam Prep

Quizlet offers a unique approach to Series 86 exam preparation by providing a platform where users can create and share study sets. These sets, which include flashcards, quizzes, and other study tools, allow for a highly customizable study experience. While Quizlet does not offer a formal course, it is an excellent supplementary resource for candidates who prefer an interactive and flexible way to review exam material.

Course Overview

Quizlet’s platform is largely free, with an option to upgrade to Quizlet Plus for additional features such as offline access and advanced study modes. The user-generated content includes a variety of study sets specifically tailored for the Series 86 exam, covering all major topics. This flexibility allows you to focus on areas where you need the most practice and engage with the material in a way that suits your learning style.

Key Features

• Customizable Flashcards: Create and use flashcards tailored to your study needs.
• Interactive Quizzes: Engage with quizzes that make studying more dynamic and fun.
• Collaborative Study Sets: Access a variety of study sets created by other users.
• Mobile Access: Study on the go with Quizlet’s mobile app for convenience.
• Flexible Learning Tools: Choose from multiple study modes to match your learning style.

Pros

• Cost-Effective: Quizlet’s basic version is free, making it accessible to everyone regardless of budget. Even the paid version is relatively inexpensive, offering enhanced features like offline access and ad-free learning, which can improve your study experience without breaking the bank.
• Highly Customizable: The platform’s flexibility allows you to create and modify study sets to suit your specific needs. This customization is particularly beneficial if you need to focus on weaker areas or prefer to study certain topics in depth.
• Interactive and Engaging: Quizlet’s interactive tools, such as flashcards and quizzes, make studying more engaging and help reinforce information through active learning. This variety of study formats helps maintain your interest and improve retention, making your study sessions more effective.
• Collaborative Learning: Access to user-generated content provides a wealth of resources created by others who have studied for the same exam. This collaborative environment allows you to learn from different perspectives and find unique study methods that might work better for you.
• Mobile Accessibility: The mobile app makes it easy to study on the go, allowing you to fit preparation into your daily routine, even with a busy schedule. This flexibility can be crucial if you have limited time to dedicate to studying and need to make the most of every opportunity.

Cons

• Inconsistent Quality: Since Quizlet’s content is user-generated, the quality of the study sets can vary significantly. You may need to spend time finding the best materials, which can be inefficient and frustrating, especially if you encounter inaccurate or incomplete information.
• Lack of Comprehensive Coverage: While there are many study sets available, they may not provide the in-depth coverage you need for the Series 86 exam. This could result in gaps in your knowledge, especially if you rely solely on Quizlet without supplementing with other resources.
• No Formal Guidance: Quizlet does not offer structured learning or formal instruction, which can be a disadvantage if you prefer a more guided approach. The absence of expert explanations or a clear study path can make it harder to organize your preparation effectively.
• Potential for Distraction: As there are so many study sets and interactive tools available, it can be easy to get distracted or lose focus on your study goals. This lack of structure might lead to inefficient study sessions if you’re not disciplined in managing your time and choosing the right materials.
• Subscription Costs for Full Features: While the basic version is free, accessing advanced features like offline study and ad-free learning requires a subscription. Therefore, this could be a downside for those who prefer to avoid ongoing costs, especially if they only need the platform for a short period.

Course Comparison: Securities Training Corporation (STC) vs. Mometrix vs. Quizlet

When choosing the right study resource for the Series 86 exam, it’s essential to compare the available options to find the best fit for your learning style and needs. Below is a comprehensive comparison of the top three Series 86 study options:

Feature	Securities Training Corporation (STC) Series 86 Course	Mometrix Series 86 Exam Secrets Study Guide	Quizlet Series 86 Study Sets
Course Type	Comprehensive Online Course	On-demand video lectures are available	User-Generated Online Study Sets
Study Material	In-depth study guides with updated content	Concise and focused content	Customizable flashcards and quizzes
Video Lectures	On-demand video lectures available	Not included	Not included
Practice Exams	Multiple practice exams including progress exams	Practice questions included	Interactive quizzes
Instructor Support	Yes, with access to an instructor hotline	No	No
Customization	Customizable study plans	Self-paced with no customization options	Customizable flashcards and study sets
Access Duration	Six-month enrollment period	Unlimited access	Unlimited access with free resources
Price	$275 – $395	$72.99	Mostly free, with premium options available
Mobile Access	Yes	Yes (for e-book version)	Unlimited access to free resources
Additional Resources	Flashcards, Crunch Time Facts, Green Light Exam	Test-taking strategies and study tips	Collaborative study sets, mobile app
Pass Guarantee	Yes	Yes	No

This table compares the key features and details of the three courses side-by-side, helping you quickly assess which one might be the best fit for your needs.

Series 86 FAQs

The passing grade for the Series 86 exam is 73%. This score is set by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). The exam takes four hours and 30 minutes to complete. You can take breaks, but the clock continues to run.

To qualify as a research analyst, you need to pass the Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) exam. This is a co-requisite for Series 86. For those holding a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) or a Chartered Market Technician (CMT) designation, there are exemptions available.

The Series 86/87 exams cover various topics, including industry analysis, regulatory administration, and investment decision-making processes. Passing these exams allows you to function as a research analyst at a broker-dealer.

The Series 87 exam focuses more on the regulatory and compliance aspects. These qualifications are essential for anyone looking to become registered as a research analyst in the securities industry.

Prometric administers these exams, and candidates should be familiar with equity securities and industry sectors. Preparing for the exam involves understanding both written and electronic communications relevant to equity valuation and industry analysis.

Frequently Asked Questions

What materials can help me pass the Series 86 exam?

To succeed on the Series 86 exam, I recommend using comprehensive study guides. Books like the Series 86 and 87 Exam Secrets Study Guide offer detailed explanations of key concepts. Additionally, consider supplementing with online courses from trusted platforms.

How much time do I need to prepare for the Series 86 exam?

A solid preparation plan for the Series 86 exam typically spans about 90 days. To maximize my chances, I would devote consistent study time daily, aiming for 2-3 hours. This ensures I cover all exam topics thoroughly.

How can I best use study guides for Series 86 effectively?

To get the most out of my study guides, I focus on the following best practices:

1. Daily Reading: Regular review of key topics.
2. Active Note-Taking: Summarize important points.
3. Practice Tests: Apply knowledge through mock exams.

Where can I find reliable Series 86 practice questions?

You can find reliable Series 86 practice questions through several resources. The courses detailed in this guide include practice questions designed to help you prepare effectively for the exam. Each course offers different types of practice materials, so you can choose one that best fits your study needs.

What is the pass rate for candidates taking the Series 86 exam?

The Series 86 exam pass rate varies, but generally, it’s seen as a challenging test with a pass rate of around 70%. This signifies the importance of thorough preparation and utilizing multiple study resources.

Which FINRA exam is the most difficult?

Among the various FINRA exams, many consider the Series 86 and 87 exams to be among the toughest due to the depth of knowledge required. The Series 86, in particular, demands a strong grasp of financial analysis and modeling skills.