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Step 1
Check your elgibility. Some exams have prerequisites like years of field experience (CISSP), a college degree, or prior certifications. Before you start to study, be sure that you can take the test.
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Step 2
Get a solid study guide, and at least 3 practice exams. If you are short on cash you may be able to borrow a guide out your local library.
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Step 3
Take Exam 1. This will give you a baseline score, as well as showing you where you score low/high.
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Step 4
Set aside sometime daily (or at least 3 times a week) to study. Depending on the certifications, and your base score set aside this time for between 3 to 12 months.
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Step 5
Slant study time in a 60/40 ratio with trouble areas getting 60 percent and review areas getting 40 percent.
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Step 6
At the half way point register for your exam date and take your second practice exam. Once again use this as a chance to examine for weak areas.
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Step 7
If possible increase your study frequency or length as the test date approaches and change your rotation to 70/30.
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Step 8
2 months before your exam date make mobile study notes or cards that are portable carrying them with you and use on dead times to get in extra study time.
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Step 9
2 weeks before your exam take the last practice exam. Use this to analyze and slant your study ratio to 80/20.
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Step 10
The day before the exam rest and do not study. Give yourself a chance to rest. Sleep and eat well. Just be sure to set an alarm.
