Okay so I've been lurking here for months and I figured it's time to actually contribute something useful. I failed the IDA exam in October and again in January — both times I thought I was ready but the wording on the questions completely threw me off. Third attempt I passed with a 78 and honestly I'm still a little shocked.
The biggest change I made was using a proper IDA practice test instead of just re-reading the study materials. I found that actually simulating exam conditions — timer on, no phone, treating it like the real thing — made a massive difference in how I handled the pressure. The study guide I'd been using was decent for content but didn't prepare me for how the questions were phrased.
My biggest exam tips: don't skip the scenario-based questions when you're studying, those are where people lose the most points. And give yourself at least 6 weeks of prep, not 3. I tried to rush it twice and paid for it. Happy to answer questions if anyone's prepping right now.