The CISSP exam is considered the gold standard in IT security certifications. Many cybersecurity professionals work for years to pass this notoriously difficult test. So when I decided to cram for the CISSP in just one week, I knew I was in for a challenge.
In this blog post, I’ll share my CISSP exam cram study tips. You’ll learn how I prepared in a short time and what resources I used to pass on my first attempt. My goal is to help you develop an efficient CISSP exam study plan, even if you only have limited time to prepare.
My Initial Thoughts on Cramming for the CISSP
I decided to cram for several reasons. First, I didn’t want to pay $200 extra for the “peace of mind” retake voucher. This bundle gives you a second chance at the test if you fail the first time. Call me overly confident, but I believed I could pass the CISSP on my first try.
I also didn’t want to spend 6-12 months studying like many forum members suggested. The CISSP exam covers eight domains with a lot of material. But I was up for the intense challenge of cramming.
When I scheduled my exam, the clock began ticking. I only had one week until test day. It was do or die time. Could I cram enough in a week to pass this four-hour CISSP exam monster? I was about to find out.
How I Prepared and Studied for the CISSP Exam in One Week
I utilized many resources during my intense week of CISSP exam cram studying. Rather than reading the entire 1,000 page study guide, I took a strategic approach. Here are the free and paid resources that I used:
Watched Domain Review Videos
My first resource was Pete Zerger’s CISSP video course. This comprehensive guide on YouTube breaks down the eight CISSP domains.
I watched two domain review videos per day for the first four days of my study week. I took notes to stay engaged as I watched the videos at 1.25x speed.
After absorbing the content from two domain videos, I immediately took practice tests on those subjects. This helped reinforce what I had just learned.
Leveraged Official CISSP Practice Tests
The second resource in my CISSP exam cram plan was the official practice tests. These came free with the digital version of the study guide I purchased on Amazon for $44.
There were 40 questions for each of the eight domains, allowing me to test my knowledge. I also saved the practice exams for later in the week.
Used Additional Practice Test Resources
In the second half of the week, I supplemented with paid practice tests from Boson and Pocket Prep.
The Boson CISSP practice exam provided 700 questions and detailed explanations. At only $75, it was well worth the investment for my CISSP exam cram plan.
Pocket Prep offered a CISSP test bank with 1000 questions for just $25. The variety of questions helped prepare me for anything I might see on the actual exam.
For three straight days, I did nothing but take practice tests. I would study all day, stopping only for necessities like eating and sleeping. By the third day, I was scoring 70-80% consistently.
What to Expect with the CISSP Exam Format
Before sharing the rest of my CISSP cram story, let me explain what this test covers. The CISSP certification validates your knowledge across eight cybersecurity domains:
- Domain 1 – Security and Risk Management
- Domain 2 – Asset Security
- Domain 3 – Security Architecture and Engineering
- Domain 4 – Communication and Network Security
- Domain 5 – Identity and Access Management
- Domain 6 – Security Assessment and Testing
- Domain 7 – Security Operations
- Domain 8 – Software Development Security
The CISSP exam is computer adaptive. That means the questions get harder or easier based on your performance. If you do well in a domain, you’ll get fewer questions about it. But if you struggle in an area, it will test you further.
My week of cramming focused on all eight domains so I would be prepared for anything. Now let’s get back to the final days before my CISSP exam.
My Mindset and Preparation Leading up to Test Day
After a week of intense CISSP exam cram studying, I did not feel ready. I ended up answering over 3,000 practice questions, but my scores were still only around 70-80%.
Frankly, I had accepted that I would probably have to retake the test after my initial fail. But I tried to stay positive and do a light review the day before my exam.
I also made sure to arrive early on test day, giving myself time to relax. I ate a good meal, watched some motivational YouTube videos, and tried to enter with a clear head.
Before the exam, I had to lock up my belongings and go through security procedures. Then I was led to the computer terminal where I would take the infamous CISSP exam.
What to Expect During the CISSP Exam
Sitting down at the terminal, I took a deep breath and tried to recall everything I had crammed into my brain in a week. Here are some things I experienced during the actual CISSP exam:
- The questions were vague, with all answer choices seeming plausible. I had to analyze carefully to choose the “most right” option.
- Some questions were long scenarios, while others were more direct. The mix of formats kept me on my toes.
- Around the 125 question mark, I started to get very anxious. This is often where the exam ends if you pass.
- The computer adaptive nature of the test added pressure. When I struggled in an area, more difficult related questions appeared.
- I had to pace myself well to ensure I could answer all 175 questions in the time limit if needed.
The four hours I spent taking the CISSP exam were grueling. But finally, the test ended at question #125. It was time to get my results.
Waiting for My CISSP Exam Results
After the exam ends, you have to wait anxiously for your score report. The proctor prints it and hands the paper to you face down for added suspense.
Those moments waiting to flip over the results sheet were agonizing. I was already planning how I would re-study and retake the test after failing.
I steeled myself for bad news, took a deep breath, and turned over the paper…
I was shocked when I saw the word “Congratulations!” I had passed the CISSP exam on my first try after cramming for just one week!
My Reaction to Passing the CISSP Exam
I was overwhelmed with emotion when I realized I had passed the CISSP exam after cramming for a week. Disbelief was my first reaction – how did I manage this?
Next was pure excitement and a rush of adrenaline. The CISSP was mine on the first attempt! All that intense cram studying paid off.
I also felt motivated to accelerate my cybersecurity career, having earned this prestigious certification. The next step was to get an endorsement to officially become a CISSP.
Unfortunately, my coworkers and manager were not very congratulatory. But I knew this CISSP credential would open more doors than my current job anyway.
Should You Cram for the CISSP Exam?
In the end, I don’t necessarily recommend the CISSP exam cram approach. It worked for me, but I would not bank on passing after only one week of study.
That said, these CISSP exam cram tips can optimize your study time if you have limited weeks to prepare. You may still need to retake the exam, but this plan can help you learn the material efficiently.
The CISSP exam covers a mile wide yet inch deep body of knowledge. Cramming the key concepts from each domain is possible in a short time. But most people need months to ingrain the knowledge and pass confidently.
Don’t be afraid to push yourself with an intense CISSP study plan. Just be strategic, use resources wisely, and don’t overestimate what you can retain in a one or two-week cram session. See what works for your learning style.
Final Thoughts on My CISSP Exam Cram Experience
Earning the CISSP certification is a major career achievement, especially if you can pass after quick focused studying. I’m thrilled I pushed myself to cram and have this prestigious certification to show for it.
But I realize my CISSP exam cram experience is unique. Don’t get discouraged if you need more time to absorb and retain the material. Create a plan that works for you.
The CISSP exam is a beast but it’s doable. Stay confident in your knowledge. Use practice tests to identify weak domains so you can strengthen them. And walk into the testing center focused and ready to conquer the infamous CISSP exam.
I hope these CISSP exam cram study tips help you form an efficient CISSP study plan. Let me know if you have any other questions. And good luck passing this challenging but rewarding infosec certification exam!