Passed CISSP via self study utilizing two sources....
First-
Thanks to all who have contributed to help achieve this. Therefore, I will do the same.
For me, the thought of achieving the CISSP Certification is quite overwhelming. To add to the drama, I was doing this on my own while working 40+ hours a week, very long commutes to work, satisfying the demands of a 6 year old, and a baby on the way. Oh, and not much support from management.
Because I was going about this alone, I felt that I needed to gather as much material as I could. The more material I had, the better I felt. WRONG (for me that is), because its wasted energy and time. I realized this when I was seeing the same material over and over.
So I narrowed my material down to:
Shon Harris 6th
Eric Conrad 2nd
11th Hour
Reading Shon's book was beneficial for me because of the pace, clear and not overwhelming. However, after the third chapter, I felt that I needed to pickup the pace because I don't retain study information for long periods of time. I jumped over to Eric's book and primarly used his. HOWEVER, I did have Shon's ebook open at all times for issues I didn't grasp 100%. Its good to see two sources explain one concept different ways. After each chapter I read, I used Shon's test engine doing 50 questions. For me, if I could achieve 80% on that amount, I was ready to proceed to the next chapter.
So with all of life's challanges, I wrapped this up in about two months. The Sunday before, I took all day to skim through Eric's book and I saw things that I either missed or forgot. Then I reviewed the 11th Hour that evening after a two hour break. When reviewing the 11th Hour, I realized that I was good to go when concepts were second nature. BUT, I had to be careful because comfortable=carelessness as you read questions too fast and miss pertinent words.
Again, these two books covers it all.
My biggest advice is to stay consistent with your studies. I lapsed twice but finding motivation wasn't too hard when you want more. Also, break out the calendar and choose a date that you would like to take the exam and and create a plan that works best for you to cover the 10 Domains.
Remember, a goal is a wish without a plan.
Best wishes.
