The Best CSCS Study Guide for 2020
CSCS is a short form of certified strength and conditioning specialist. It is one of the exams developed by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) to ensure that all incoming professionals the requirements set forth by the standards. The exam is also essential for earning the well-respected fitness and training professional certification.
What exams do the CSCS exam cover?
The CSCS is a computer-based and multiple-choice questions exam. This exam is separated into two different practice tests; scientific foundation exams and the practical/applied exam and then further split into domains.
The scientific foundation's exam is comprised of questions from the first two domains out of six from the CSCS textbook. Part 1 covers exercise science and consists of 74% of questions. While part 2 covers nutrition and comprises 26% of the problems.
The practical and applied section of the CSCS exam consists of questions from domain 3, domain 4, domain 5, and domain 6 of study. Part 3 covers the exercise technique and comprises 35% of the problems; part 4 accounts for 35% of the questions and covers the program design. Domain 5 accounts for 12% of the question and covers organization and administration. Lastly, part 6 covers testing and accounts for 18% of the problems.
The CSCS study guide
This article will discuss the CSCS study guide intended to add to the comprehensive 4th edition of "Essentials of strength and conditioning," a textbook developed by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). It is the primary textbook for strength and conditioning students and professionals.
Below are some of the essential study materials techniques that will help students pass their CSCS exam:
CSCS practice tests
One technique that students can use to prepare for the CSCS exam is by using CSCS practice tests. Students ought to use practice quizzes and tests for every particular domain of study in the CSCS. The way the test works is you answer the test questions using either a computer or a tablet, and after completing, you are presented with your score of whether you have passed or failed the test. Make sure you cover as many questions as possible to ensure you are thoroughly familiar with how CSCS will phrase their questions.
Full Practice exams are vital since they help you know if you are fully prepared for the real exams or not. Many students fail this exam because they did not take the practice test exam to prepare. Overall practice tests help you reduce your study time and offer you a much better chance of passing your exam.
Premium CSCS study guide
A premium CSCS study guide is another important resource that can help students prepare for their final CSCS real exam. A useful CSCS study guide should be organized and be focused on the most important content. Also, the studies guide should point out exactly what is required for you to pass your exam. This approach will help you save time while studying the CSCS materials.
Spaced repetition Flashcards
Spaced reputation is a technique that can be useful to help you remember key information for the CSCS exam. It involves using the flashcards you are familiar with questions or content that you find difficult to understand. The program keeps on showing you the problem areas and newly introduced cards until you master the material you need to know. Also, the less complicated and older cards are offered less frequently.
The spaced repetition flashcards technique is unlike the old school method of using flashcards that involved physical noting down of information on many flashcards, which was time-wasting and tedious.
Using spaced reputation, flashcards have proven useful to many students who have utilized the concept. It increases retention rates and helps you pass the exam.
CSCS mnemonics
The last CSCS study exam technique you can use is memorization mnemonics. This can be especially effective on the topics you find in your textbook challenging to remember. What you will need to do is create a memorable mnemonic story that is easy for you to remember. They will help you memorize the most challenging areas of your CSCS exam by connecting the study concepts and your magic mnemonic.
Five powerful tips for succeeding in a CSCS exam
In addition to the above study techniques, there are several tips that CSCS students should consider to pass their exams. Here are some of the tips
1. Prepare properly
Prior preparation is vital for you to succeed in the CSCS exam. You should read their study material thoroughly, tackle practice tests, and read CSCS books to help provide you with the necessary knowledge. Read and practice until you feel 100% ready for the real exam.
2. Talk to people who have already passed the exam
It would be a great idea to talk to someone you know who has passed the exams; they can give you great tips on the material they used while preparing and give you tips on what to expect. If you don't know anyone, you can search through online forums on CSCS and ask for the recommendations and studying materials needed for you to succeed on the exam.
3. Invest in CSCS materials
You can invest in other reading materials besides books such as DVDs with questions and answers to prepare for the upcoming exam. Ensure you buy the newest edition of the DVD and books.
4. Overcome tricky questions
Similar to all exams, you are likely to find tricky questions in CSCS exams. Therefore, ensure you read through the questions thoroughly before attempting to answer. Regardless of the time factor, ensure you give every question your best effort to answer it correctly.
5. Get a good night sleep
Lastly, make sure you get proper rest before your exam. Research shows that having a goodnight's sleep will benefit your score by helping you think better with more focus.
Conclusion
To succeed in your CSCS exam, you will need to be prepared. Use all the material that can help you get ready and test your readiness. By being as prepared as possible using the tips in this article, we are confident you will pass the test and be ready to start your exciting career in the personal trainer industry!