After waiting close to 10 years to buckle down on the studying - I finally went and sat for the test and passed it on the first try. On the practical/applied section, I scored a scaled score of 91 - 100/110 questions correct and on the scientific portions, I scored a 72/80 - scaled score of 90. I scored almost identical to the NSCA-CPT exam (scaled score of 90).

I basically followed the same format for both tests - know the book inside and out and have a good understanding of the material.

I will say that there were a few questions from the CPT exam on the CSCS. Fortunately, having taken them both and having read both books, I knew the answers. But, even still, if you read the book and know the information thoroughly you can pass these.

Does it take some time - yes and no. I basically read each book once...then went back and actually studied the material intensely. When it comes to studying/memorizing - I'm like a machine. I pretty much sat down and crammed for two days straight - in fact, I didn't sleep the night before going into the test - I stayed up all night reviewing and studying. But, that's how I operate and it's worked for me for years - all through college and beyond.

Good Luck.