Many employed in the exciting world of cybersecurity can find themselves hitting a career ceiling after a few years on the job. Opportunities for advancement can dry up, leaving IT professionals feeling stuck. One way to break through the career wall is to become CISSP certified. To do so, it requires passing the CISSP exam which has proven to be quite a challenge.
For those seeking clarity, CISSP meaning translates to “Certified Information Systems Security Professional.” This globally esteemed certification serves as a gateway for cybersecurity professionals to elevate themselves toward more fulfilling and financially rewarding career paths.
CISSP Exam Dos and Don’ts
To receive a CISSP exam passing grade and become certified will require preparation. Without spending some time and effort to improve your skills and overall understanding of what’s on the exam, it would be incredibly difficult to pass with flying colors. However, by following some CISSP exam dos and don’ts, you’ll significantly improve your chances of a successful test-taking experience. Here’s some expert advice for a smooth exam experience.
Do Enroll in a CISSP Masterclass
A CISSP masterclass can help candidates to assess their weaknesses so they can improve upon them. With the help of flashcards, video discussions of the eight domains of the CISSP Common Body of Knowledge, and sample tests, candidates can better understand what knowledge is required for certification.
One of the benefits of enrolling in a CISSP masterclass is the ability to set your own study schedule. Once you’ve identified where your knowledge is lacking, you can focus on the domains that you haven’t fully mastered. For each incorrect answer, you’ll be shown an easy-to-understand video explanation. Candidates who enroll in CISSP masterclasses significantly increase their chances of passing this difficult exam.
Don’t Procrastinate
To be eligible for the test, applicants must not only have a four-year college degree but must also have five years of work experience in at least two of the CISSP eight domains. Most who apply for the exam are already working in a time-demanding job, so it’s crucial to force themselves adequate time for study. Putting on test preparation is foolish, no matter how busy their work schedules can be.
Most CISSP test-takers give themselves a minimum of three months of preparation before test day, so it’s important to begin the process of preparation sooner rather than later.
Do Seek the Guidance of a Mentor
Developing a professional relationship with those who’ve had success with the CISSP exam can be of great benefit to first-time test-takers. They can share their knowledge of how they prepared for the exam and what worked for them. Seeking out a mentor can be done within your place of employment or you can find one online. Those who experience test anxiety can benefit from speaking one-on-one with someone who’s already taken the exam.
Don’t Rely on Memorization
The topics covered in the CISSP exam are far too far-reaching for candidates to solely rely on memorizing the concepts of the eight domains. Successful candidates will be able to use not only their knowledge of the concepts but also critical thinking to determine the correct answers to the questions. Without a strong understanding of how all the domains are interconnected, it will be difficult to achieve a passing grade.
Do Set a Study Schedule
Although most who take the CISSP exam are already working full-time jobs, to have a successful test-taking experience, test candidates will need to have the discipline to set aside time for study. Inconsistent studying won’t help applicants retain knowledge and the best course of action for test preparation is to set aside uninterrupted study time each week.
Don’t Put Too Much Pressure on Yourself
Obviously, the CISSP exam is to be taken seriously. However, it’s never beneficial to put too much pressure on yourself, especially on test days. Consistent and focused exam preparation is key to building the confidence required to achieve a passing grade. Even in our adult years, test anxiety can still occur. Give yourself two days of relaxation without studying before test day, and ensure that you’ve gotten a good night’s rest the night before the exam.
CISSP Exam Dos and Don’ts: Final Thoughts
To advance your cybersecurity career, passing the CISSP exam will help to open up more job opportunities. The exam is known to be challenging, however, by following some basic dos and don’ts, you’ll be able to achieve your goal of becoming certified.
Along with putting aside time each week for studying, enrolling in a CISSP masterclass is a smart way to ensure that you’re prepared on test day. Upon completion of the masterclass, test candidates will have identified their weaknesses and have put forth the time and effort at ensuring their knowledge of all of the eight domains of the CISSP CBK is well-rounded.
