The CISSP certification is generally recognized as a credential for information security professionals and signifies an individual’s expertise and understanding in several cybersecurity domains. The CISSP exam’s format is an important part of assessing applicants’ competence. In this post, we’ll look at the differences between computer adaptive testing (CAT) and linear exam designs for the CISSP exam, weighing the benefits and drawbacks of each method.
NOTE: The CAT format is now the only option for individuals in the United States; however, it is not available to those outside of the United States. Also, as of the 2024 CISSP Refresh, ISC2 has said that the linear format will be phased out completely.
Section 1: Understanding the CAT Exam Format
The CISSP test was converted to the CAT format in December 2017. The CAT format is an advanced style of testing that adjusts to the test taker’s performance during the exam. This is how it works:
- According to the test taker’s response, the next question is either more or less difficult.
- The exam’s question difficulty continues to be adjusted based on performance.
- The test ends when the candidate obtains a passing score or answers all of the questions.
- The exam starts with a question of moderate difficulty.
Pros of the CAT Exam Format
- Individually tailored: The exam’s adaptive nature guarantees that applicants are assessed at an appropriate difficulty level, resulting in a more accurate evaluation of their knowledge.
- Shorter duration: The CAT exam has a limit of 150 questions and must be completed in three hours, making it shorter and more efficient than the linear style.
- Faster results: Candidates receive a preliminary pass/fail result immediately after completing the exam, allowing them to learn their outcomes sooner.
Cons of the CAT Examination Format:
- No question review: Once a candidate has answered a question, they can’t go back and review or amend their response.
- Increased stress: Because the exam is adaptive, some students may feel anxious about their performance.
Section 2: Understanding the Linear Examination Format
Prior to switching to the CAT format, the CISSP exam had a linear design, in which applicants were given a set amount of questions in a predefined order, with no adjustments based on their performance. The linear format included 250 questions and had a six-hour time limit.
Pros of the Linear Exam Format:
- Consistent difficulty: The questions are presented in a predetermined order, guaranteeing that all candidates face the same difficulty level.
- Question review capability:Candidates have the opportunity to evaluate and change their answers before submitting the exam.
Cons of the Linear Exam Format:
- The linear format takes longer to complete than the CAT format because it has 250 questions and a six-hour time limit.
- Less accurate assessment: Because the question order is set, it may not accurately reflect a candidate’s knowledge.
Final Thoughts
The CISSP exam’s change from the linear to the CAT format has drastically altered how candidates are evaluated. While the CAT format provides a more personalized and time-efficient testing experience, it may cause stress for some candidates. On the other hand, the linear style provides a consistent degree of difficulty and the ability to examine answers, but it is more time-consuming and may not provide an accurate measure of a candidate’s knowledge. Understanding the distinctions between the two formats will help candidates better prepare for the CISSP exam and succeed in their certification efforts.
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