I've been lurking here for months so figured it was time to give back. Failed my first FORT attempt back in February by four points — honestly devastating after six weeks of studying. The problem was I was just re-reading my notes over and over without actually testing myself, which felt productive but clearly wasn't.
Second time around I completely changed my approach. I found a solid FORT practice test online and drilled it repeatedly until I understood why each answer was correct, not just what the answer was. Also grabbed a FORT study guide that broke down the forestry investment and valuation sections separately, which helped me stop confusing concepts I'd been muddling together. Spent about 45 minutes a day for five weeks, heavier on weekends.
Biggest exam tips I'd pass along: don't underestimate the timberland portfolio management questions, and make sure you're comfortable with both GAAP and IFRS treatment differences. Passed with an 82 this time. Happy to answer questions if anyone's prepping right now.