Most people I know are simply looking to pass their certification test on the first try. Who wants to deal with the heartbreaking feeling that comes with finding out you failed the test and have to go back and do it again? There are lots of resources out there to help you master the content and, like me, feel confident that you know the subject and will pass with ease. I would like to share with you the tips and tricks that I used to not only pass the CRISC exam on the first try, but to get the highest score globally in 2019.
To start off, working in the field covered by the exam will prepare you better than any tip or trick I can provide. I've worked in project management, information technology, information security and privacy. All of these disciplines have major focuses on risk management and, to be honest, risk management is one of the parts that I enjoy most about these jobs. So, coming into the CRISC exam I felt pretty confident that I could master the content and pass the exam. Take advantage of your background. On some tests, you have to throw your experience out the window and learn to do it the assessor’s way. For this exam, however, I found my practical experience to be very useful. I did have to learn ISACA’s perspectives and terminology, but my real-world experience was a definite plus.
To prepare for the exam, I started with an ISACA-sponsored prep class. I then used Quizlet to help me memorize the ISACA terms and definitions. You definitely want to master ISACA’s terminology if you want to pass the exam. Quizlet is a free tool that works a lot like flash cards. It already has sets of flash cards that others have created for CRISC and other exams so you don't have to make your own. You can use it on just about any device you own so you can carry it with you and look it over whenever you have a free minute.
Once I had the terminology down, I used ISACA’s test question bank to practice for the exam. Like the prep class this does cost money, but it was well worth it. If you can get your organization to pay for the prep class, try to get the question bank included in the purchase. It is a great tool that allows you to get used to their question style as well as cement your knowledge on the topic. I joined a group of coworkers who were also taking the exam and we met periodically to go through the questions together. We discussed each as a group before revealing the answer.
While I didn’t use the following technique on this exam, I typically use it when taking certification exams and it has helped me to pass with high scores on many exams by a number of different organizations. To study the provided material, I build an index – the index consists of a term or phrase, followed by a page number to the reference, as well as a brief description. While you can’t use the index in the exam, it is great for building comprehensive knowledge of the material. You can then review the index and not have to search through the materials when doing your final review.
I also wanted to leave you with some practical tips that have nothing to do with the subject matter of the exam.
- Whether you are spending the day in a class, studying on your own, or taking the exam itself, get 30 minutes of exercise each day. It can be as simple as a brisk walk.
- Avoid eating carbs. Stock up on protein and vegetables, which keep your mind sharp.
- Bring a snack with you. You can’t have it in the testing room, but most test sites will let you set it somewhere that you can access when you take a break for the exam. I do encourage you to take a break versus plowing through the whole thing. You’ll be fresher and think more clearly. The time will be well spent.
- Don’t study the night before the exam. Yes, you heard me right! You and your mind need rest a lot more than any cramming that you could do. Try to find something that will help you relax and get a good night sleep.
- Make sure you know your best test-taking time and, whenever possible, schedule your exam for that time.
- If you are taking the exam at a testing center, know the location. Not all centers are the same. Some are cramped or noisy. Make sure that the testing environment is conducive to you taking the test, and don’t be afraid to ask for earplugs or headphones if you need them.
Not all of the tools and techniques I used will be practical for everyone, but I have found that they helped me to sail through many a certification exam. Pick the ones that work for you, and good luck on any future exams you have to take.
Editor’s note: Brooks will be recognized at the EuroCACS 2020 virtual conference for his 2019 CRISC exam top score. Learn more about Brooks and the other 2020 award recipients.
