Passed CISSP
I finished in an hour and a half. I didn't hang out on questions where I wasn't sure of the answer. I simply chose what I believed to be the best answer and moved on. I made sure that I didn't study anything the day prior, and instead relaxed and got a solid night's sleep. As for studying, the best advice I can give is to not rely on sample tests. I know people don't like this answer, but the best way you can prepare is to honestly know, understand, and be able to apply the information.
As for study guides, I used the Conrad, Harris, and Sybex guides. Never, EVER rely on a single study guide for this. All of them provide their own unique perspectives on the domains, and give you a more holistic view of things. 11th Hour is utterly useless. If you don't know the material in the book that close to test day, you may be in for a bit of a disappointment.
Finally, don't hang out in domains where you are strong. It's tempting because it's easy. But if crypto baffles you, keep reading. If the books aren't getting the message across, start doing your own research. Had a technical guy who took the course along with me, and he really had to make an effort to move away from the technical stuff and into physical and operational security and legal.
The CISSP, for some, can be a bit of a mind game, especially if you get blitzed with hard questions at the beginning (which seems to be the norm). Read the questions carefully, read the answers, and choose based on what you have learned. It's really that simple. Don't let a single question hold you hostage while the clock is winding down. If you don't know it right off, then one guess is as good as any. Use common sense, think like a manager, and be mindful of the clock.
