I would start with the study guide once you are cpne eligible. next, get 2 - 3 ring binders. one to hold parts 1,2 and 3. the other to hold section 4, the critical elements. when you first get this study guide you may become overwhelmed . just separate the 500+ pages as mentioned above. you will be working in section 4 but read the first 3 sections especially section 2. once you are ready for section 4, tab all the areas of care. Excelsior is your best resource for this exam to stay organized and informed. after all, it's their exam so use the resources they offer. HINT: take their online conferences for the cpne. (I believe there are 4 of them ) after all of the above--sign up for a workshop. you'll know which one when you've done all of the above. after that workshop take the online version a month before your exam and practice in a mock lab with the online. This exam is made out to be so stressful but I think it's because we panic the day we see that study guide and start jumping around in every direction. make it easy for yourself and follow the above (small steps), organized , one day at a time with a set study schedule . I hope this helps.