Preparing for any test, including the Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) exam, takes grit. It can be challenging, but it should never be overwhelming. Here are some tips to help make your exam prep more effective and enjoyable.

Partner with Other Candidates

Connecting with other people who are studying or have studied for the CC exam is a great way to share ideas and collaborate with peers who understand what it takes to succeed. Keeping in regular contact with candidates also creates accountability and keeps you motivated. Consider joining an ISC2 Chapter or Online Study Group to meet like-minded individuals.

Reward Yourself

Exam preparation deserves rewards for work well done. Take a break every now and again to do something you enjoy. For example, you might spend time with friends and family, watch an episode of your favorite show, or have an extra piece of chocolate after dinner. Rewards will keep you motivated, happy and on track for success. 

Personalize Your Study Environment

It can be helpful to create an environment that suits your sensory preferences. For example, noise-cancelling headphones, a tidy workspace and gentle lighting may create a comfortable setting that will help you feel cool, calm and collected as you study.

Ask about Testing Accommodations

ISC2 is committed to ensuring opportunities in cybersecurity are accessible to all.

To request examination accommodations, complete the request form and submit it to examadministration@isc2.org prior to registering for your exam. You’ll need to provide an explanation of the requested accommodations and documentation supporting the need.

Testing accommodations are individualized and considered on a case-by-case basis. Once approved by ISC2, we’ll send the information to Pearson VUE Accommodations.

Note: Please contact ISC2 first. Do not start by scheduling through Pearson VUE’s website or through their main registration phone line. Allow two to three business days for Pearson VUE to process your information. Then call Pearson VUE at +1-800-466-0450 and schedule your exam. 

Practice Mindfulness and Think Positively

Mindful practices such as deep breathing, meditation and progressive muscle relaxation help calm the mind. Incorporating these techniques into your study routine makes it easier to focus while studying and during the exam.

Focusing on success is hugely important for staying confident and positive. To put this mindset into practice, try repeating positive affirmations such as, “I am prepared,” “I can handle this,” and “I am confident in my abilities.” Similarly, visualizing success – for example, imagining walking into the exam room, feeling calm and confident, answering questions with ease and finishing strong – can help you feel more comfortable on exam day.

Take It at Your Own Pace

Give yourself the time you need to prepare properly for your CC exam. 

This is where the Official ISC2 Online Self-Paced CC Training comes in. Its adaptive approach tailors learning content to your individual knowledge, learning speed and confidence level. You’ll receive immediate feedback so you can learn faster and target your studies. 

Get Quality Sleep

Getting enough rest during your prep period – and especially the night before your exam – can significantly impact your confidence and performance. Quality sleep can improve cognitive functions, help regulate your moods and emotional responses and boost your serotonin levels in your brain. Try to avoid caffeine at night and digital screens for at least an hour before bed. Try to spend some time in natural lighting daily to optimize your sleep quality.

Keep Stress Levels in Check

If your stress levels run high before exam day, here are a few tips to help keep them in check:

  • Replicate the exam center environment at home. Try sitting in a hard chair under an air vent at the kitchen table and/or taking a practice test and managing your time per question.
  • Lay out your clothes and IDs the night before.
  • Prepare a healthy breakfast the day before.
  • Drive the route to the testing center a few days before your exam to observe traffic and parking. This will help you avoid any unforeseen circumstances and unnecessary anxiety.

Prepare, Prepare, Prepare!

Building confidence for your exam depends on preparing properly. Take advantage of ISC2 resources – such as the CC Study Pack, the CC Exam Ready Booklet or the Official ISC2 CC eTextbook – to ensure you’re ready for your exam.

Remember, you’re at the beginning of your cybersecurity journey, and amazing opportunities await you ahead.

H2: Additional Insights