So I just got my results back yesterday and I finally passed the CPG exam on my second try. First attempt I scored a 68, which was just brutal after six weeks of studying. I honestly thought I had a decent handle on procurement fundamentals, but the exam catches you on really specific supplier relationship and contract management scenarios that generic study materials just don't prepare you for.
What changed for me the second time around was being way more strategic. I spent the first three weeks going deep on category management and cost analysis — those sections hit harder than I expected. I also started using a CPG practice test site to simulate timed conditions, which exposed gaps I didn't know I had. Do that early, not two days before the exam.
Anyone else working through their CPG study guide right now? Happy to share the topic breakdown I used or answer questions. I know how stressful the wait between attempts feels, so drop any questions below.