How to Pass the SHRM EXAM: Part II A COMPLETE Study Guide

Summary

In this video, Angela Murray, SHRM-SCP, SPHR, and HR exam coach, shares effective study strategies for preparing for the SHRM certification exam. She emphasizes the importance of using the SHRM BASK as a roadmap, creating a tailored study plan with clear goals, and focusing on quality study materials. Angela advises integrating practice questions, flashcards, and periodic full-length exams into your routine. Additionally, she offers tips on organizing study groups, stressing the need for selective, goal-oriented sessions. The video aims to equip viewers with a comprehensive approach to pass their HR exams with confidence.

Takeaways

• 😀 The SHRM BASK (Body of Knowledge) is essential for study, providing clear proficiency indicators that outline exactly what you need to know for the exam.
• 😀 Developing a study plan with a timeline, weekly goals, and flexibility is crucial for effective exam preparation.
• 😀 Balance study material—too many resources can overwhelm you, but reliable and aligned resources are key to success.
• 😀 Practice questions are a must. They help you familiarize yourself with the structure of the exam and reinforce your knowledge.
• 😀 Periodically taking full-length exams under timed conditions builds stamina and prepares you for test day.
• 😀 Reviewing the rationale for both correct and incorrect answers helps you understand your mistakes and improve.
• 😀 Flashcards are great for reinforcing terms and concepts, especially when you review them both ways—definition and term.
• 😀 Study groups can be helpful if well-structured, with a small, diverse group and specific goals for each session.
• 😀 Selective study group participation is important. A group should have no more than 3-6 members to ensure active engagement and effective collaboration.
• 😀 Stay organized in study groups with assigned topics, set goals, and someone to track progress and keep meetings on track.

Q & A

What is the biggest benefit of using the SHRM Bask for exam preparation?

The biggest benefit of using the SHRM Bask is that it lays out the proficiency indicators, which clearly outline exactly what you need to know for the exam. These indicators are an essential resource for understanding the scope of what you’ll be responsible for and they are provided for free.

Why is it important to create a study plan?

A study plan is crucial because it helps you manage your time effectively, allocate study time based on the test date, and ensure you meet specific goals. It also allows for flexibility, accounts for rest days, and helps in breaking down the material into manageable chunks.

What is the ideal way to break down your study material?

You should break down the SHRM Bask into smaller, manageable sections and assign specific topics to each study session. This allows you to focus on one area at a time while tracking your progress and ensuring you cover all content before the exam.

How can you avoid feeling overwhelmed by too many study resources?

To avoid feeling overwhelmed, stick to a few reliable study resources that align with the SHRM Bask. Ensure the resources are consistent with the defined criteria and resonate with your learning style. Don’t overdo it with multiple sources that might confuse you or add unnecessary pressure.

Why are practice questions essential in exam preparation?

Practice questions are crucial because they help you understand not only the content but also the structure and framework of the exam. They help you get familiar with how questions are phrased and can improve your ability to answer them correctly under timed conditions.

What role do flashcards play in studying for the HR exam?

Flashcards are a great tool for reinforcing terms and concepts. While they may not directly help with situational questions, they support your understanding of key definitions and theories. Flashcards can be reviewed on the go, making them a convenient option for quick reinforcement.

What is a good strategy for using flashcards effectively?

To make the most of flashcards, review both the term and its definition. Switch up the method by sometimes reviewing the term and recalling its definition, or vice versa. Another effective strategy is to teach the term to yourself by using real-life examples, which aids retention.

What guidelines should you follow when forming a study group?

When forming a study group, aim for a small, dedicated group of 3 to 6 members to ensure active participation and camaraderie. Make sure the group is diverse in experiences and perspectives, and establish clear goals for each session. Assign rotating leadership roles and ensure the group stays on track.

How do you manage group dynamics in a study group to avoid distractions?

To manage group dynamics, designate a timekeeper to keep everyone on track and prevent the group from turning into a gripe session. While it's okay to vent occasionally, the main focus should be on productive study goals. This ensures the group remains focused and efficient.

How can you make your study sessions more effective once your study plan is set?

Once your study plan is in place, the next step is to stick to it and follow through. Make sure to stay consistent with your study goals, use tools like practice questions, and take full-length exams under timed conditions to simulate the actual test experience.