CISSP

[twizzy12]

Do you guys read the books first or watch videos? I don't know which I should be doing. I already read, but Kelly Handerhan videos really help me out. 

[emb021]

Everyone learns differently.

I've done classes, watched videos, and read books. I also feel that doing practice tests/exercises is a good thing.

For me, whether I'm doing a class or watching a video, I like to have notes that I can follow along, and return to as needed.  I've actually gotten frustrated with some video classes when I don't have this and basically have to take a lot of notes.

For me, I read the CBK book and did exercises and passed.  But I have been in the field awhile, done prior classes and such, so that worked for me.  Might not with others.  YMMV.

[SebastiaanR]

100% agree, we all have our own method to work through material.

I would personally go through any video material first, because I tend to find them more engaging in shorter bursts (when I have 10-15 minutes to kill, or concentration levels are lower). I would typically try and do any pre-assessment questions, and prioritize my studies accordingly.

I'm busy preparing for my CCSP at the moment, and this is the method I am following, but I do this for all my certifications:

- Decide on material (based on reviews and recommendations). This usually ends up being a blend of about 70% official material, and the rest being articles, blogs, opinion pieces, etc.

- Take pre-assessment to identify weak areas, and prioritize my study time accordingly

- Watch the videos I have and read the required material from books. Reading tends to happen in the mornings, videos in the evenings. Personal preference, my energy levels dictate this 🙂

- As I finish specific topics or sections, I make a point to put together a high-level (5/6-slide deck) overview I present at our internal competency forums on what I've learned and how it applies to me, my role, and the business. This is a nice way to not only gauge my own understanding and progress, but it also instills confidence with my employer that I'm committed to my cloud security journey.

Just my 2c...

[AppDefects]

Most importantly use the exam outline as your study guide. Align your study material to each and every job task to be successful.

[twizzy12]

Thank you so much for your response. I am working on getting all the methods together so I can pass this exam. 

[chuck_kesler]

First, best of luck with your studies and exam!

As an earlier poster pointed out, everyone learns differently, and I think all of the above suggestions are good. For me personally, I try to work as many practice test questions as possible when studying for a certification. That helps me identify where my weak spots are so that I can focus where I need to study more.

[AmmarHasayen]

Hi,

You need to have a proper study plan that you put together to pass this exam. Here is mine: https://blog.ahasayen.com/cissp-exam-study-plan/