Which Test Prep Book To Choose?

They say not to judge a book by its cover....

You've decided to take a CLEP test, you've picked one out, and you're gearing up to study. But which study book should you choose? There are a multitude of options. Type "English Composition CLEP Study," for example, into Amazon.com and you'll find almost thirty results! That can be a little overwhelming.

Well, you'll be happy to know that every CLEP test has at least one study book made specifically for it, so you won't have to scramble to find a suitable textbook or Dummy's guide (which I've had to do for several DANTES tests)! Here's a rundown of the top test-specific study guide makers:

Research and Education Association (REA): These guys are clearly the industry leaders. I use their books every time I can! With up-to-date books on every single CLEP topic (with the exception perhaps of French and German languages), written by qualified professionals, they provide complete, expert, well-written products--most of which now come with practice tests on CD to simulate the actual test-taking experience! There are usually two or three practice tests for every study book. Baseline: If you're looking for a reputable, solid study guide, look no farther

Comex Systems: This is another pretty popular publisher, but their most recently published book was in 2010. I've had less experience with this publisher than with REA, but have used Comex to pass a couple of CLEPs. Some reviewers say that a Comex book is OK, but needs supplementary information, while others insist that it's all you need. There are frequent reports of the book's questions not lining up with the questions on the actual test. I was personally frustrated with the small number of practice questions. Baseline: Comex guides are usually good for studying a test's general content, but not so great for preparing for the test itself.

The #1 thing you must look for in a test prep book is a multitude of positive reviews! There are quite a few "ripoff" book series out there purporting to be professional guides, when they're really poorly-written and unhelpful. Don't fall for these! Go for the ones that have solid reviews from people who have actually passed the CLEPs you want to pass.

Of course, there are other guide makers (Ace the CLEP, CLEP Exam Secrets Test Prep, Jack Rudman, Perfect Score Software), and this isn't a comprehensive list. But really, why would you go with a lesser-known book when the "big guys" are so good? The lesser-known books aren't necessarily cheaper than the better-known ones, so there's really no excuse not to buy the quality, well-reviewed guides!

                                                                                                Happy CLEPing!