Problem: Article: In general, tax preparers are required to have a high-school diploma or equivalent. That is, you don't need a bachelor's or associate degree to get started or to thrive in the tax preparation industry. However, any aspiring tax preparer should be aware that the job will require some basic skills. You can prepare for the job in high school by cultivating:  Strong math skills. Basic computer skills and typing ability. Customer service skill and experience. A very basic understanding of tax regulations (necessary forms and time constraints). Because many tax preparers don't have any formal training in tax preparation, they must undergo a small amount of training before they can begin working. In these training courses, students learn about topics like filing status, taxpayer interviews, exemptions, tax calculations, and refund schedules. These courses are offered by a number of sources, so it's best to consider several options before choosing the best one for your situation.  Some tax preparation companies offer on-the-job training, so try applying for a job directly and see if they offer this type of training. This could save you a considerable amount of time and money. Find jobs by searching online job boards in November or December.  Sign up for a training program offered by the Accreditation Council for Accountancy and Taxation (ACAT) or National Association of Tax Professionals. See their websites for more information. Many technical and community colleges, as well as universities, offer short certificate programs that can qualify you for entry-level positions. Search for programs in your area to learn more. Some of these may also be available online. However you decide to get the training in, you'll have to complete it before becoming a tax professional. If you can, try to take advanced courses that include information on topics like estate taxes, capital gains, and retirement funds. This knowledge can separate you from the crowd.  Be sure to keep any notes or information you have from your classes, as you may need them later if you choose to pursue higher-level certifications or education. Also be sure that any tax preparation skills learned are tailored to the state in which you will be practicing, as filing requirements vary between states. While a simple tax preparation course can prepare you for the majority of tax preparation roles, you may also want to reach higher by becoming a licensed tax accountant, a CPA, a tax attorney, or an IRS Enrolled Agent. Obviously, these will require much more education, and expense to you, but the opportunities for advancement and salary growth are much better. Without additional education (or owning your own tax preparation business), there is little room for advancement in the tax preparation industry. Tax preparers can become enrolled agents either by working for the IRS for a specified period of time or by passing the Special Enrollment Examination (SEE) and applying online for enrolled agent status. After passing the test or achieving the required work experience, you can apply for enrolled agent status by filling out IRS form 23 and undergoing a background check.
Summary: Meet the minimum requirements. Take basic training courses. Complete additional tax training to increase your knowledge base. Earn a tax-related degree to get an edge over the competition.

Problem: Article: If you see a lump on your guinea pig’s body, schedule an appointment with your vet. Your vet will perform different tests to determine the cause of the lump. Do not delay in taking your guinea pig to your vet—if the lump is an abscess, it could make your guinea pig very sick by overwhelming your guinea pig’s natural defenses against bad bacteria. During your appointment, give your vet as much information as you can about your guinea pig. For example, talk about your guinea pig’s overall health and when you first noticed the lump. In addition, provide information about your guinea pig’s diet, living environment, and if it has cagemates. Your vet will use the information you provide to come up with a diagnosis. Therefore, the more information you provide, the better. A physical examination will give your vet important clues about what caused the lump to form. Your vet will weigh your guinea pig, look it over from head to toe, and listen to its heart and lungs. Your vet will pay special attention to the area of the lump. Your vet may want to run some extra tests to confirm the diagnosis of the lump. One type of test is called fine needle aspiration (FNA), during which your vet will use a small needle to withdraw a fluid sample from the lump. Your vet will look at this fluid under the microscope to detect different cell types (e.g., fat cells, white blood cells). Another type of test is a biopsy, which would help your vet diagnose a tumor.  Your vet would need to sedate or anesthetize your guinea for FNA or a biopsy. A fluid sample from the lump can be useful for identifying bacteria. The test to identify bacteria is called a ‘culture.’
Summary:
Take your guinea pig to your vet. Explain your guinea pig’s history. Allow your vet to examine your guinea pig. Allow your vet to perform additional testing.