Failed CFP exam twice — what finally helped me pass on attempt 3?

So I finally passed the CFP exam last month after two brutal failures and I wanted to share what actually made the difference because I was ready to give up. My first two attempts I scored a 62% and a 64% — so close but not quite the 70% passing threshold. I was using just the Kaplan textbooks and honestly thought that was enough after putting in maybe 200 hours total.

What changed for attempt three was committing to a real CFP practice test routine. I mean doing timed, full-length exams under actual test conditions, not just reading through questions casually. I also found a solid CFP study guide that broke down the topic weightings — turns out I was completely underestimating the retirement planning and estate planning sections, which together make up over 40% of the exam.

If you're in the same boat, I'd love to hear what study resources worked for you. And for anyone just starting out, what CFP exam tips do you wish someone had told you before you sat for it the first time?