What’s New in the CySA+ Exam: Key Differences Between CS0-002 and CS0-003

In the fast-paced world of cybersecurity, the need for certifications to evolve alongside changing technologies and methodologies is essential. The Cybersecurity Analyst certification has long been a staple for professionals in threat detection, vulnerability management, and incident response. Recently, with the release of the new version of the exam, both aspiring and experienced professionals must understand the changes and updates from the previous version.

If you’re pursuing or renewing a cybersecurity analyst certification, you’ve probably encountered both versions. The older version of the exam officially retired at the end of 2023, and its successor came into effect earlier that year. Understanding the differences between these two versions can help you optimize your preparation for the latest version of the exam, allowing you to focus on the most relevant and current topics.

A Quick Refresher on the Cybersecurity Analyst Exam

The Cybersecurity Analyst certification sits between entry-level and advanced certifications in the security pathway. It serves as a bridge for individuals who are already familiar with fundamental security concepts and want to specialize in areas like threat hunting, incident response, and vulnerability management. It’s ideal for those working in security operations centers, engaged in continuous security monitoring and analysis, or looking to transition into roles such as security engineers or analysts.

Professionals pursuing the certification are expected to demonstrate practical skills in analyzing and responding to cybersecurity threats. The exam tests both theoretical knowledge and applied knowledge, making it a strong choice for those seeking to validate their expertise in real-world scenarios.

Why the New Version of the Exam Was Released

Cybersecurity is a constantly evolving field. The rapid development of new attack techniques, tools, and defensive measures requires certifications to stay up to date. This is why certification bodies like those responsible for the Cybersecurity Analyst exam release updated versions of their exams every few years. The updated version ensures that certified professionals are tested on the latest tools, techniques, and best practices aligned with the current threat landscape.

The most recent version of the exam builds on the foundation set by the previous version but includes new content to reflect the growing reliance on automation, cloud technologies, and advanced defense mechanisms. It introduces a stronger emphasis on automation and orchestration, mobile and cloud security, as well as a deeper focus on threat intelligence and response strategies.

Exam Format: What Hasn’t Changed

While there have been significant updates in the content and structure of the exam, the basic format has remained largely unchanged. Candidates who have already taken other certifications from the same certification body, or those who have studied the previous version, will find that the overall structure of the exam remains familiar.

Here are some details that have not changed in the updated exam:

Maximum Number of Questions: 85

The updated version of the exam, like its predecessor, contains a maximum of 85 questions. The number may vary slightly depending on the adaptive nature of the exam, but 85 remains the upper limit. These questions cover a range of multiple-choice formats as well as performance-based tasks designed to simulate real-world cybersecurity scenarios.

Candidates can expect the questions to include:

• Single-answer and multiple-answer multiple-choice questions 
• Scenario-based questions that require analyzing complex situations 
• Performance-based questions (PBQs) that involve solving tasks using simulated environments 

Exam Duration: 165 Minutes

Test-takers have 165 minutes (2 hours and 45 minutes) to complete the exam, just like the previous version. This duration is generally enough for most candidates who are well-prepared, but effective time management is key to success.

To stay on track:

• Aim to answer one question every 2 minutes or less 
• Spend more time on performance-based questions, which tend to take longer. 
• Flag difficult questions and return to them later without penalty.y 

Question Types: Multiple-Choice and Performance-Based

The exam is designed to test both knowledge and practical skills. While multiple-choice questions assess theoretical knowledge, performance-based questions test a candidate’s ability to apply that knowledge in real-world settings. The focus is on analysis, decision-making, and problem-solving.

Multiple-Choice Questions

These questions test knowledge in areas such as threat detection, security controls, and response strategies. They include:

• Single-response questions, where candidates must choose the best answer 
• Multiple-response questions, where candidates are asked to select more than one correct answer 

Performance-Based Questions (PBQs)

These questions simulate tasks analysts face in real-world environments, such as:

• Analyzing security tool outputs, such as logs and network traffic 
• Interpreting data from security systems to detect and respond to threats 
• Making decisions based on data analysis 

Performance-based questions test critical thinking and hands-on experience. Candidates are not expected to type commands but should be able to interpret output and select the correct responses based on realistic scenarios.

Passing Score: 750 (On a Scale of 100–900)

To pass the updated version of the exam, candidates must achieve a score of 750 or higher on a scale of 100 to 900. This passing score is calculated based on the difficulty and the number of questions answered correctly. While exact scoring details are not publicly disclosed, it is generally estimated that scoring around 750 typically requires correctly answering approximately 80-85% of the questions. Performance-based questions may carry more weight than traditional multiple-choice questions.

Delivery Options: In-Person and Online Proctored

Candidates can choose between taking the exam at a Pearson VUE test center or via online proctoring, depending on personal preferences and availability. Both methods offer a full exam experience, though each has specific requirements.

Pearson VUE Test Centers

Test centers provide a controlled environment with a human proctor to ensure the integrity of the testing process. Candidates must bring a valid ID and confirmation email to the exam center.

Online Proctored Exam

This option allows candidates to take the exam from the comfort of their home or office, though candidates must meet specific technical requirements such as a working webcam, microphone, and stable internet connection. The exam is monitored by a proctor via video feed throughout the duration of the test.

Regardless of the delivery method, the exam interface includes helpful features like an on-screen calculator, scratchpad, and notepad, enabling candidates to manage their time and resources effectively during the test.

Psychological Readiness for the Exam

One of the most underestimated aspects of exam success is mental preparedness. The pressure of a timed exam and the complexity of performance-based questions can be overwhelming, especially for first-time test-takers. Familiarizing yourself with the format and practicing with mock exams can help alleviate this pressure.

It’s important to note that many candidates fail not because they lack knowledge, but because they are unprepared for the mental and emotional challenges of the exam. Being able to stay calm, manage your time effectively, and think critically under pressure is key to success.

Core Skills Assessed in the Exam

The core skills being assessed on the exam include:

• Identifying cybersecurity threats and vulnerabilities 
• Responding to security incidents and incidents that are escalating 
• Using tools to monitor systems, networks, and applications 
• Communicating effectively with stakeholders about security risks and findings 

The main change in the updated exam is the introduction of newer tools and techniques used in modern security environments. This reflects the growing reliance on automation, cloud platforms, and advanced security technologies in today’s cybersecurity operations.

Exam Content Changes – What’s New in the Updated Cybersecurity Analyst Exam

In the rapidly evolving field of cybersecurity, staying ahead of the curve is crucial. The update to the Cybersecurity Analyst exam reflects a shift in the industry’s focus, emphasizing the need for professionals to not only understand core concepts but also leverage modern tools and techniques in their daily operations. In this section, we will explore the key content updates in the new version of the exam, highlighting how these changes reflect the current trends and best practices in cybersecurity.

Restructured Domains

One of the most significant changes in the updated exam is the restructuring of the exam’s domains. While the older version included five domains, the updated version consolidates the content into four key domains. This restructuring focuses on creating a more cohesive, workflow-centric experience that mirrors how security analysts work in modern environments.

Here’s a comparison of the old and new domains:

Old Version Domains:

1. Threat and Vulnerability Management 
2. Software and Systems Security 
3. Security Operations and Monitoring 
4. Incident Response 
5. Compliance and Assessment 

New Version Domains:

1. Security Operations 
2. Vulnerability Management 
3. Incident Response and Management 
4. Reporting and Communication 

This new domain structure reflects how security operations have evolved, with a greater focus on automation, orchestration, and communication in response to incidents. Let’s dive into these changes in more detail.

Security Operations (33%)

The updated version of the exam places a greater emphasis on security operations, recognizing the increasing reliance on automation and orchestration in managing security events. Security operations are now seen as the backbone of a security program, integrating threat intelligence, incident response, and continuous monitoring to maintain a strong security posture.

Key areas covered under this domain include:

• Security Information and Event Management (SIEM): Candidates are expected to be proficient in using SIEM tools to aggregate, analyze, and interpret security data across networks, endpoints, and applications. This includes the ability to identify patterns, anomalies, and potential threats in security logs. 
• Extended Detection and Response (XDR): The integration of multiple security tools to detect and respond to threats across a broad spectrum of attack vectors is now a key focus. This domain includes understanding how to implement and use XDR solutions in conjunction with traditional SIEM platforms. 
• Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR): EDR tools are essential in modern cybersecurity practices, helping analysts identify and respond to endpoint threats in real-time. Understanding the role of EDR and its integration with other security tools is now part of the updated exam. 
• Network Monitoring: Proactive network monitoring is critical in detecting malicious activities and potential breaches. The exam covers the use of network monitoring tools, the analysis of network traffic, and the identification of lateral movement within the network. 
• Automation and Orchestration (SOAR): The ability to use automation to improve efficiency in detecting and responding to security incidents is now a core competency. Candidates are tested on their knowledge of Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response (SOAR) tools, which automate repetitive tasks and help speed up the response to security threats. 

Real-World Application

In practice, this domain represents the day-to-day responsibilities of security analysts who monitor and respond to security incidents. It focuses on the ability to recognize and respond to events, identify threats early, and manage tools and systems that allow security teams to work efficiently and at scale.

Vulnerability Management (30%)

Vulnerability management remains a cornerstone of the updated exam, though with a stronger focus on cloud-native environments and mobile platforms. The ability to scan for, assess, and remediate vulnerabilities is vital for any security program, and the updated exam reflects this by covering both traditional on-premise infrastructure and newer cloud platforms.

Key topics in this domain include:

• Vulnerability Scanning: Candidates must demonstrate their knowledge of vulnerability scanning tools and techniques. This includes understanding how to interpret vulnerability scan results and how to prioritize vulnerabilities based on their risk to the organization. 
• Risk Prioritization: The ability to assess and prioritize vulnerabilities using frameworks such as CVSS (Common Vulnerability Scoring System) is now a key part of the certification. This enables analysts to focus on the vulnerabilities that pose the greatest threat to the organization. 
• Patch Management and System Hardening: Proper patch management and system hardening techniques are essential in mitigating the risks posed by vulnerabilities. Candidates are expected to understand how to apply patches effectively and secure systems against potential exploits. 
• Cloud Security Vulnerabilities: As organizations increasingly move to cloud environments, understanding the specific vulnerabilities that exist in cloud infrastructure is vital. This domain now covers the identification of misconfigurations in cloud environments and the application of security best practices in these environments. 
• Mobile Platform Security: The growth of mobile and BYOD (Bring Your Device) policies requires security teams to secure mobile platforms and applications. The updated exam includes questions on securing mobile devices and applications, understanding risks, and implementing controls. 

Real-World Application

Vulnerability management is at the heart of any proactive security posture. In practice, analysts need to continuously assess and remediate vulnerabilities to reduce their organization’s attack surface. The domain focuses on the use of vulnerability scanning tools, assessing cloud configurations, and mitigating threats in an efficient, risk-based manner.

Incident Response and Management (20%)

The ability to effectively respond to security incidents has never been more important. The updated exam emphasizes incident response, with a focus on streamlining the process of identification, containment, eradication, and recovery. The integration of automation and orchestration tools in incident response is a key component of the new content.

Key topics in this domain include:

• Incident Response Lifecycle: The exam tests candidates on their understanding of the incident response lifecycle, which includes preparation, detection, containment, eradication, and recovery. Each phase plays a critical role in ensuring that security incidents are handled efficiently and effectively. 
• Forensics and Evidence Handling: Understanding how to collect, preserve, and analyze digital evidence is critical in an incident response scenario. The updated exam includes questions on forensics tools and techniques, such as memory and disk forensics, as well as the legal and regulatory considerations involved in evidence handling. 
• Root Cause Analysis: Candidates must be able to perform a root cause analysis to determine how a security breach occurred and how to prevent similar incidents in the future. This includes understanding attack vectors, tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) used by adversaries. 
• Incident Reporting and Communication: Reporting incidents to key stakeholders, including internal teams and external regulatory bodies, is an important part of incident management. The ability to write clear, concise reports and communicate effectively during an incident is now a critical part of the updated certification. 

Real-World Application

In practice, incident response requires rapid decision-making, collaboration with various teams, and a thorough understanding of attack methodologies. The domain focuses on the practical skills needed to detect, contain, and mitigate threats quickly while maintaining the integrity of the organization’s security posture.

Reporting and Communication (17%)

While this domain has the smallest percentage of the exam, its importance cannot be overstated. Clear communication is critical in ensuring that the results of security efforts are understood by both technical and non-technical stakeholders. The ability to write concise reports, communicate findings, and escalate incidents appropriately is now a focus of the updated exam.

Key topics in this domain include:

• Security Reports and Executive Summaries: Candidates must understand how to prepare clear, actionable reports on security findings, including writing executive summaries that are easy to understand for non-technical stakeholders. 
• Data Visualization: The ability to translate complex security data into visual representations that highlight trends, vulnerabilities, and risks is increasingly important. This domain covers the use of charts, graphs, and other visual tools to present security data. 
• Escalation Protocols and SLAs: The updated exam tests candidates on their knowledge of escalation procedures, including when and how to escalate incidents based on severity. Candidates are also expected to understand Service Level Agreements (SLAs) and how they impact incident resolution times. 

Real-World Application

Reporting and communication are critical for ensuring that the results of security operations are understood and acted upon. Whether preparing a report for upper management or communicating with regulatory bodies, the ability to effectively communicate security issues is a key skill for any cybersecurity professional.

Tools and Techniques for the Updated Cybersecurity Analyst Exam

As cybersecurity threats become more sophisticated, professionals in the field must rely on a wide array of tools and techniques to detect, analyze, and respond to incidents. The latest version of the Cybersecurity Analyst exam places a strong emphasis on the practical use of security tools, including those that help automate processes, monitor systems, and respond to incidents effectively. In this section, we’ll explore the key tools and techniques covered in the updated exam, providing a deeper understanding of how they align with current cybersecurity practices.

Automation and Orchestration Tools (SOAR)

In response to the growing need for efficiency and speed in cybersecurity operations, the updated exam includes a stronger focus on Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response (SOAR) platforms. These tools are designed to automate repetitive tasks, integrate security systems, and help analysts respond to incidents faster.

Key features of SOAR platforms include:

• Incident Automation: SOAR platforms can automatically trigger responses to certain types of security events, such as isolating compromised systems or blocking malicious IP addresses. Automation allows security teams to respond faster, reducing the time it takes to contain a threat. 
• Playbooks: SOAR platforms use pre-configured playbooks to guide analysts through incident response processes. These playbooks help standardize responses to common threats and ensure that the right steps are followed during an incident. 
• Integration with Other Security Tools: SOAR platforms often integrate with other security tools, such as SIEM systems and endpoint detection solutions, to provide a comprehensive view of the security landscape. Integration enables the automation of cross-platform responses to threats. 

In the context of the exam, candidates are expected to understand how to use SOAR tools to improve response times and reduce human error in handling security incidents. A practical understanding of how SOAR platforms interact with other tools in the security stack is essential for success in the updated exam.

Security Information and Event Management (SIEM)

SIEM systems are central to modern security operations, providing a comprehensive view of an organization’s security posture by collecting and analyzing data from various sources, such as network traffic, endpoint devices, and servers. The updated exam emphasizes the ability to interpret SIEM data, identify threats, and respond appropriately.

Key features of SIEM tools include:

• Log Aggregation: SIEM platforms collect log data from various security devices, applications, and systems. The logs are aggregated in real time, allowing security teams to identify unusual activity that may indicate a security threat. 
• Event Correlation: SIEM systems use correlation rules to connect related events from different systems. This allows analysts to identify attack patterns, detect sophisticated threats, and prioritize response efforts. 
• Real-Time Alerting: SIEM platforms provide real-time alerts when certain events or thresholds are met. Alerts can be based on specific rules or machine learning models that analyze incoming data for anomalies. 

Candidates preparing for the updated exam must be able to use SIEM systems to aggregate data from diverse sources, identify potential threats, and take the appropriate actions based on the data. Understanding how to configure and interpret SIEM alerts is an essential skill for modern security analysts.

Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR)

Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) tools have become indispensable in modern cybersecurity operations. These tools are designed to monitor and respond to threats on individual endpoints, such as computers, servers, and mobile devices. EDR solutions can detect suspicious activity, provide real-time alerts, and help analysts investigate and mitigate incidents.

Key features of EDR tools include:

• Real-Time Monitoring: EDR tools continuously monitor endpoint activity to detect malicious behavior, such as unusual file modifications, registry changes, or unauthorized access attempts. 
• Behavioral Analysis: Rather than relying on known signatures of malware, EDR tools often use behavioral analysis to detect new and emerging threats. This approach can identify threats even if they have not been previously seen by the system. 
• Incident Response: EDR tools allow analysts to respond to incidents by isolating compromised endpoints, terminating malicious processes, and rolling back changes made by attackers. These tools help prevent the spread of threats within the network. 

In the updated exam, candidates are expected to understand how to deploy and configure EDR tools, interpret alerts, and respond to incidents effectively. EDR is essential for protecting endpoints in today’s increasingly mobile and decentralized work environments.

Threat Intelligence Platforms (TIPs)

Threat intelligence is a crucial component of modern cybersecurity operations. Threat Intelligence Platforms (TIPs) provide security teams with actionable information about emerging threats, helping them proactively defend against attacks. These platforms aggregate and analyze data from various sources, including open-source intelligence (OSINT), commercial threat feeds, and internal security data.

Key features of TIPs include:

• Threat Feeds: TIPs aggregate data from multiple threat intelligence sources, including known malicious IP addresses, domains, and file hashes. This information helps security teams detect and block threats before they can cause damage. 
• Contextualization of Threat Data: TIPs provide context around threat data, helping security teams understand the relevance and impact of specific threats to their organization. This contextualization is crucial for prioritizing response efforts. 
• Integration with Security Tools: TIPs integrate with other security tools, such as SIEM systems and firewalls, to enhance threat detection and response capabilities. Threat intelligence data can be used to inform automated responses or guide manual investigations. 

For the updated exam, candidates should be familiar with how to use TIPs to gather, analyze, and act on threat intelligence. Understanding how to correlate threat data with internal security data is an important part of proactively defending against cyber threats.

Vulnerability Scanning Tools

Vulnerability scanning is a critical part of any cybersecurity program. The updated exam places significant emphasis on the use of vulnerability scanning tools to identify and assess vulnerabilities in systems, networks, and applications. These tools help security teams prioritize remediation efforts and reduce the overall attack surface.

Key features of vulnerability scanning tools include:

• Automated Scanning: Vulnerability scanners can automatically scan networks and systems for known vulnerabilities, such as unpatched software or misconfigured services. These scans can be scheduled to run regularly to ensure continuous monitoring. 
• Risk Prioritization: Many vulnerability scanning tools use scoring systems, such as the Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS), to assess the severity of vulnerabilities. This helps security teams prioritize vulnerabilities based on their potential impact and likelihood of exploitation. 
• Remediation Recommendations: Vulnerability scanners often provide recommendations for remediation, such as applying patches, updating software, or reconfiguring systems. These recommendations help security teams take action to mitigate identified vulnerabilities. 

Candidates preparing for the updated exam should understand how to configure and use vulnerability scanning tools, interpret scan results, and prioritize vulnerabilities based on their risk to the organization. A solid understanding of vulnerability management best practices is critical for success.

Cloud Security Tools

As more organizations migrate to cloud environments, understanding how to secure cloud-based systems is increasingly important. The updated exam places a greater emphasis on cloud security, reflecting the shift toward hybrid and multi-cloud environments. Cloud security tools help organizations secure cloud infrastructure, applications, and services.

Key features of cloud security tools include:

• Cloud Configuration Management: Cloud security tools help ensure that cloud environments are configured securely, following best practices and security standards. Tools can automatically check for misconfigurations and recommend corrective actions. 
• Access Control: Cloud security tools help manage access to cloud resources by enforcing authentication and authorization policies. This ensures that only authorized users can access sensitive data and services. 
• API Security: With the increasing use of cloud-based applications, securing APIs is critical. Cloud security tools can help identify vulnerabilities in APIs and protect them from attacks such as injection and authentication bypass. 

For the updated exam, candidates must be familiar with securing cloud-based environments, identifying vulnerabilities, and applying security best practices for cloud services. Understanding how to use cloud security tools to monitor and protect cloud infrastructure is essential.

Practical Experience with Security Tools

While theoretical knowledge is important, the updated exam places a strong emphasis on hands-on experience with security tools. Candidates must be able to use a variety of tools to detect, analyze, and respond to incidents. The exam includes performance-based questions that require candidates to demonstrate their ability to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios.

Some key areas of practical experience include:

• Analyzing SIEM data to detect potential threats 
• Interpreting alerts from EDR tools and responding to incidents 
• Using vulnerability scanning tools to assess systems and prioritize remediation efforts 
• Leveraging threat intelligence to proactively defend against attacks 

The ability to apply these tools in real-world scenarios is crucial for passing the updated exam. It’s not enough to simply know how the tools work; candidates must be able to interpret data, make informed decisions, and take appropriate action.

Preparation Strategies for the Updated Cybersecurity Analyst Exam

Successfully preparing for the Cybersecurity Analyst exam requires a focused approach that incorporates both theoretical learning and hands-on practice. The updated exam reflects the evolving nature of cybersecurity, placing a greater emphasis on real-world application, automation, and modern security tools. In this final part, we’ll discuss strategies to help you effectively prepare for the updated exam, including recommended study resources, time management tips, and practical preparation methods.

Study Resources for the Updated Exam

One of the most critical aspects of exam preparation is selecting the right study resources. With the updated content and new tools covered in the exam, it’s essential to focus on resources that align with the current exam objectives. Here are some key study materials that can help you prepare efficiently:

1. Official Exam Objectives

Before diving into any study materials, the first step is to review the official exam objectives provided by the certification body. These objectives outline exactly what you need to know and help you track your progress as you study. The objectives will cover all four domains of the exam, allowing you to focus your efforts on areas that need the most attention.

2. Textbooks and Study Guides

Books and study guides provide comprehensive coverage of the exam material. Some of the most popular and reliable books include:

• CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+) Study Guide: This guide covers all of the key topics for the exam, offering in-depth explanations of the concepts, tools, and techniques you’ll need to understand. 
• CySA+ Certification Study Guide by Mike Chapple: This book is an excellent resource that walks you through the exam objectives with clear, detailed explanations and practice questions. 

These books usually come with practice exams and quizzes to test your understanding and reinforce the material. Use them to strengthen your knowledge in particularly challenging areas.

3. Online Learning Platforms

Online platforms provide interactive courses that include video lessons, quizzes, and other interactive tools to help you understand the concepts. These platforms often feature exam simulations, where you can practice answering questions in an environment similar to the real exam.

Look for platforms that offer:

• Comprehensive video courses aligned with the exam objectives 
• Interactive quizzes and practice exams 
• Hands-on labs to practice with real security tools 

These platforms offer the flexibility of studying on your own schedule while providing practical, hands-on experience with security tools.

4. Hands-On Practice Labs

The updated exam places a strong emphasis on real-world skills, so it’s essential to practice with the tools and techniques you’ll use in actual cybersecurity roles. Setting up a practice lab allows you to gain hands-on experience with key tools like SIEM systems, EDR platforms, vulnerability scanners, and cloud security tools.

Consider setting up a lab where you can practice using tools such as:

• Wireshark for network traffic analysis 
• Splunk for SIEM queries and log correlation 
• Nessus or OpenVAS for vulnerability scanning 
• Volatility for memory forensics 

By simulating real-world scenarios, you’ll gain the practical experience needed to succeed on the exam, especially in the performance-based questions.

5. Practice Exams and Simulations

One of the best ways to prepare for the exam is to take practice exams. These practice exams are designed to simulate the real test experience, allowing you to assess your readiness and identify areas that need further study.

Taking practice exams helps you become familiar with the format of the questions and improves your time management skills. It’s essential to simulate real-world conditions, including using timers and working through performance-based questions, which test your ability to apply knowledge in practical scenarios.

Use practice exams to:

• Gauge your overall exam readiness 
• Identify weak areas that need more attention. 
• Improve your time management by answering questions under a time constraint.s 

Many online platforms offer full-length practice exams, giving you a good sense of what to expect during the real test.

Time Management Tips

Proper time management is essential for exam success. The updated Cybersecurity Analyst exam has 85 questions, including both multiple-choice and performance-based questions, and you’ll have 165 minutes to complete it. This means you need to pace yourself effectively throughout the exam.

Here are some tips to manage your time efficiently during your study sessions and on exam day:

1. Break Down Your Study Plan

Create a study schedule that breaks down the topics by domain. Spend more time on areas where you feel less confident, but make sure to review all domains to ensure comprehensive preparation.

A sample study plan for 8 weeks could look like this:

• Week 1-2: Review Security Operations, including SIEM, EDR, and threat intelligence. 
• Week 3-4: Study Vulnerability Management, focusing on vulnerability scanning, patch management, and cloud security. 
• Week 5: Focus on Incident Response, including forensics, incident handling, and legal considerations. 
• Week 6: Review Reporting and Communication, practicing writing reports and visualizing data. 
• Week 7: Take a full-length practice exam and analyze your results. 
• Week 8: Final review, focusing on weak areas and completing another practice exam. 

2. Study in Short, Focused Sessions

Rather than cramming for long hours at a time, study in shorter, more focused sessions. Aim for 1-2 hours of study per session, with 10-15 minute breaks in between to maintain focus and prevent burnout.

3. Practice Under Time Constraints

On exam day, you’ll have 165 minutes to complete the test. This means you have less than 2 minutes per question on average. During your practice exams, simulate the actual testing environment by setting a timer and answering questions under time pressure. This will help you improve your pacing, making sure you don’t spend too long on any single question.

4. Prioritize Performance-Based Questions (PBQs)

Performance-based questions require more time than multiple-choice questions, so be sure to allocate additional time for them. Don’t get stuck on PBQs; if you find a question taking too long, flag it and move on to others. You can always return to flagged questions later.

Tackling Multiple-Choice and Performance-Based Questions

The updated exam includes a mix of multiple-choice questions and performance-based questions (PBQs). Here’s how you can approach each type of question:

Multiple-Choice Questions

For multiple-choice questions, focus on:

• Understanding the core concepts: Read each question carefully, and ensure you understand what’s being asked before selecting an answer. 
• Eliminating incorrect choices: If you’re unsure of the correct answer, try eliminating the choices that are obviously incorrect. This can help you narrow down your options. 
• Using knowledge and reasoning: Some questions may test your ability to apply knowledge to real-world situations. Use your reasoning skills to identify the best possible answer. 

Performance-Based Questions (PBQs)

PBQs simulate real-world tasks that cybersecurity analysts handle daily. These questions test your ability to analyze data, identify threats, and respond to incidents using security tools.

For PBQs:

• Stay calm: Don’t panic if you’re unsure about a question. Focus on the data presented, and use logical reasoning to work through the problem. 
• Understand the tools: Familiarize yourself with common security tools and practice interpreting their output. The more comfortable you are with the tools, the quicker and more accurately you can answer PBQs. 
• Prioritize tasks: In some PBQs, you may be required to take multiple actions. Prioritize based on the severity of the threat and the steps required to mitigate the risks. 

Exam-Day Preparation

The day before the exam, make sure you are mentally prepared and have everything ready for test day. Here are some tips for exam-day success:

• Get a good night’s sleep: Ensure you’re well-rested so that you can focus during the exam. 
• Arrive early (for in-person exams): If you’re taking the exam at a test center, plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled time to allow for check-in and ID verification. 
• Prepare your environment (for online exams): If you’re taking the exam online, make sure your testing area is quiet, well-lit, and free from distractions. Check your computer, webcam, microphone, and internet connection before the exam starts. 
• Bring the necessary identification: If you’re taking the exam in person, ensure you have a valid government-issued ID. If you’re testing online, ensure you have the required software installed. 

Post-Exam Considerations

After the exam, take the time to review your performance, regardless of the outcome. If you pass, celebrate your success, but if you don’t, use your score report to identify areas of weakness and focus your future study efforts on those domains. Many candidates don’t pass on their first attempt, and that’s okay—what matters is persistence and continued learning.