How to study for the

CPC exam in a short

time (basically, how to

cram for the CPC exam) Written by Jim H May

(http://howtostudyforcpcexam.com/)

Trying to get certified as a medical coder by passing the CPC exam is a significant investment of

your time and money. For some their careers as medical coders are on the line. Whether it's

your first attempt at taking the coding certification exam or not, the fact is that the CPC exam is

not easy. In fact, as much as 60% of exam takers will fail. With so much riding on the line on this

one exam, how do you cram for the CPC exam?

First of all, don't expect miracles to happen. Prepare early for the CPC exam so you don't have

to cram last minute. Treat cramming as the final step of your overall study and test preparation,

not the beginning. But if you're going to cram, then read on.

Get yourself organized. If there is a time and place for proper planning and organization, this is

it. Chart out how much time you have left and prioritize what you need to work on. Choose a

good study technique that you know works for you. Flash cards and mnemonics are fine if

you've been using it for some time, but this is not the time to start something new. Identify

your best style of study, it could be rereading your notes, reviewing summaries, study groups,

taking practice exams, or using audio-visual tools.

Also, try to eke out as much time as possible for study and review. Look for time that can be

recovered such as waiting for the bus, sitting in the toilet, watching tv, going out for drinks,

cooking, and etc. If you find yourself having some idle time but without your notes, then start

to quiz yourself to review the information you've retained.

The CPC exam is an open-book multiple choice test. If you're going to cram, then you'll want to

focus on memory recall rather than memory retention. Develop a plan and strategy for time

management and looking up your book. You're allowed to mark it up for easy reference, so

make sure you take advantage of that. Look around, ask, or pay someone to show you the

proven ways or methods to mark it up. Not all questions are equal when it comes to answering

them, but they are worth the same number of points. A major problem that most CPC exam-

takers face is not having enough time to finish it, so be efficient.

You can't pass the CPC exam if you're not actually in it. Keep yourself fit, mentally and

physically. Maintain a positive, confident, and relaxed attitude so you don't get nervous and

choke in the exam hall. Even if you're doing a cramming marathon, make sure you break it up a

bit to have enough rest. Having enough rest is crucial because this is the time when your mind

absorbs and files away all the information.

Still feeling lost? Get a professional to help guide you and show you exactly what to study and

how to study so you can ace the exam on your first or next try!

Jim regularly updates his website HowToStudyForCPCExam, about how to prepare and study for

medical coding certification, medical coding in general, the certification exam, and related news about

the industry. You'll find more great tips and useful resources to help you get certified.

Click on this link to visit Jim’s website now!