Reddit reviews PHR / SPHR Exam For Dummies

Congrats! I passed the test myself this month and had a similar experience. The testing center I visited was pretty small, and I had to laugh about the biometric palm reader. I scanned both hands at one desk, walked about five steps to another desk and had to scan both hands again - I guess to confirm that an imposter hadn't somehow taken my place in those 10 feet.

I had a similar study plan - I exhausted Pocket Prep (paid version) and used these two books. The Dummies book comes with online tests, which I used extensively - great value for the money I think. I did spend $85 for one set of the HRCI questions and sort of regret it. They didn't really teach me too much I hadn't learned by that point. Maybe they just gave me a measure of confidence about the format.

The only other practical advice I can add is just to breathe, take your time and don't get shaken. I found the process of navigating 175 questions on the computer to be mentally and physically taxing. After about 100 questions I started taking mini breaks at my chair (didn't want to ask the proctor to get up). I would look up at the ceiling, breathe deeply for a minute or two and refocus. I did this a lot towards the end and it worked.

I took the exam last spring and used three different books.

PHR/SPHR for Dummies - I did not use this as much as I used the books listed below.

PHR/SPHR Exam Study Guide 2016 - This was more of a summary of the areas covered. I got some good information out of it and it was a quick read.

PHR/SPHR Professional in Human Resources Certification Deluxe Study Guide - This was the most thorough of the books I purchased and I'm confident I can use it for PHR exam too, without having to worry about buying additional study materials.

I don't remember too much about the exam, but I wish you the best of luck!

*Note: I made flashcards off of information from the books and used those to study, once I finished reading the books.