Hello, I am a new member and am planning on taking the exam in September. But, I am very overwhelmed with what study guides to purchase. I don't have the money to purchase them all. I read in one of the forums that there is a smart bundle (what's difference between 3, 6 or 12month version)? And then per the 2017 Body of Knowledge document, there are the recommended readings for each exam domain and also the 4 textbooks that "contain a wide variety of content covered on the CAP examination, thus are good general reference material when studying" if unable to purchase all the books under the 7 domains? Help! And then you can purchase a spot in a study group? Which have you purchased and/or are most important if you cant buy everything? Thanks, Jessica

What I normally do when there are reference materials is go to the library and check them out. It's a great resource.

I hear you.  I have been there myself.  I took the test last Spring and believe the best bang for your buck is the SMART book that your can purchase on line.  If you are taking the exam in September then I would go with the three month version as you are already well into July.  I would also recommend spending the $25 to purchase the practice exam.  Those two items together will help you.  As far as the recommended reading goes, I agree, the library is a great resource.  

Honestly, if you spend time in the SMART book, stop and do the quizzes throughout the book, then go to the end and do the quizzes at the end of the book to test your knowledge and make up some flash cards of your own, you will be in really good shape.  Some Google searches on the various theories like Theories X,Y and Z will help a little bit as well as some of the recommended reading.  Good luck on your exam.  I'm sure you will do great.

I agree with Brenda; the SMART book is the best bang for your buck.

Barbara Weathers at HQ can help-can you wait til about a week post Summit? We need to re cooperate

Good Day Jessica Fox.  I run Study group sessions and will be happy to provide some assistance with your goal.  The Smart Book is a Great Place to Start.

Anyone attending Summit, stop by the "CAB" (Certification Administration Board) Stand at Marketplace  CAB members are happy to answer any questions you might have.

Thank you all for your quick responses! They are all very helpful

Hi Jennifer!

I teach study groups. You can send me a pm if you want to learn more. I just opened registration on my April 2018 study group and I've got a 6 week CAP exam cram coming up for the Septmeber 2017 exam.

As for the smartbook, I would think about working back from the test date and consider how many months ahead you can reasonably start to focus. If you won't be studying over the holidays, you might as well wait and do the three month rental. If you will, then do the six month. There's not much point in doing a twelve month.

Marie