Practical Suggestions for Passing Certification Exams …..

Credit for this article goes to one of my closest friends , Kaushlendr Partap ( CISSP-ISSAP | CISA | COBIT 5 | ISO 27001 LA | ISO 22301 LI ) , who managed to spare time to be my guest writer . Thank you so much Dear 🙂

As a teacher and mentor for exam preparation classes, I am often asked “What kind of questions will be asked and what do I need to know in order to pass the exam?” The individuals posing this question are excited to get started on the right path, and many of them purchase all available exam preparation books. Basically, they want to know how questions will be extracted from each domain within the body of knowledge.

Based on my experience helping people to prepare for these exams and my own success passing these professional certification exams on the first try, I suggest the following study approaches:

First and foremost, get into the mind-set of the professional organization that administers the test. Exam takers must put aside their preconceived ideas and methods, either based on their prior experience or those that may be suggested by their employers, for them to understand the standards and best practices offered by the profession. Taking exam preparation classes can certainly help to get you in the right frame of mind.

Get a holistic understanding of the body of knowledge. Having a high-level view of the material can help you identify the key deliverables for the major aspects that will be tested. Seeing the big picture can help test takers understand the main areas of focus. Additionally, the candidate can see how all of the functions and related processes fit together.

Take an operational risk view of the material. That is, understand the roles of people, processes, technologies and infrastructure of the body of knowledge as well as the adverse effects that can result if controls are not working effectively and determine the best course of action to take.

• People—Gain knowledge of the roles and responsibilities of the key stakeholders involved with the processes throughout the body of knowledge within the discipline. This should also be extended to committees, officers, managers and quality assurance.
• Process—Understand the key methods used within the body of knowledge. Having an end-to-end perspective of the input, transforming steps and the output for each domain helps with any sequencing questions.
• Technology—Obtain an understanding of the types of technology used within each domain. Each technology that houses information must be protected according to the data classification to ensure data integrity, availability and confidentially—the security attributes. The candidate must gain knowledge of the purpose of the technology before understanding the threats that can be imposed upon it and the potential consequences.
• Infrastructure—Understand the organizational policies, principles, methods, approaches, governance and forms followed in the organizational context.

Practice by taking mock tests and sample questions. I tell my students to get their hands on as many sample questions as possible. Those materials offered by the certifying body are the best source, since questions are formatted similarly to the actual exam. I also warn students to be careful using some outside sources, since many questions are not constructed in the same manner as the certification test, which can lead test takers a bit astray and set some false expectations. Additionally, some certifications require an understanding of the calculations to derive the correct answer, while other examinations are only looking for a candidate to have a general understanding from more of a working application perspective. If possible, partner with others who are in the same situation and/or have already taken the exam. Everyone has their area of expertise and studying with subject matter experts (SMEs) can really help someone who may be less familiar with a particular topic. Since teaching others is one of the best methods for reinforcing your learning, this method helps both parties.

Most important, do everything possible to establish clarity of thought. That is, remain emotionally calm before the test is distributed. Remember that having a frustrating experience right before the exam can hinder your thought process. It is equally important to develop a positive mental attitude for getting the needed confidence to put yourself in the right mind-set. Upon entering the testing room, envisioning that you already passed the test will help you to cultivate positive energy and thoughts. Being kind to yourself and others can help to relieve stress, so talk to people while waiting (if they are open to it) and be friendly.

Someone once told me that a definition of good luck is simply having opportunities that meet with your preparation, so study hard, believe in yourself, and go forth and conquer. And, do not forget to celebrate your success once you find out that you have passed 😉

Contact @ https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaushlendrpartap