By Lori S. Goldsmith, SPHR, GPHR

My role as a volunteer with the HR Certification Institute means that I can’t share actual questions with you; however, I can share some of my favorite study tips while on the run.  Speaking of on the run, did you know SHRM’s 2010 Learning System has gone mobile, too?  For actual retired questions, http://www.hrci.org/assessmentexam/

If you are an auditory learner, listen to your pdf materials. Visual learners, work with flash cards in your spare moments.  The exams are not trivia tests.  Stay focused on key concepts.  Don’t try to memorize, only a small percentage of the exam is knowledge based.  If you are really crunched for time, focus on key terms.  To make sound decisions, you must know what the question is asking and understand the meaning of the choices. The exam is experiential, draw on your life experiences.

Take as many quizzes as you can.  Don’t panic if you fail miserably.  Don’t get over confident if you are acing everything.  Neither is an indication of how you will do on test day.

Most importantly, plan to pass.  Treat your exam preparation the same way you plan strategically in your business.  Do an honest assessment of your strengths and weaknesses and plan study time accordingly.  Make sure your study plan fits in with your lifestyle.  Write your plan down.  If you have to deviate, you know where you left off and what you have to do to get back on track. If you are taking a class or participating in a study group, come to class prepared to intelligently discuss the assignment.  If you can talk about it or write about it in your own words, you will be in a much better position on test day. One encounter with the study material is not enough for long term learning, make sure your plan includes spaced reviews.

Already PHR, SPHR, or GPHR certified, what are your favorite tips?