So I just got my results last week and I finally passed. Honestly I was pretty discouraged after failing the first time because I thought I'd studied enough, but looking back I was way too focused on memorizing definitions and not nearly enough on applying the concepts under time pressure. The exam is deceptively tricky in that way.
What turned things around for me was switching my approach about six weeks out. I found a solid JIBC practice test online and started drilling questions every single morning before work — like 20-30 questions with a timer running. That pressure really exposed the gaps in my knowledge. I also picked up a study guide that broke down the law enforcement and justice sections by topic, which helped me stop treating everything as one giant blob of information.
My biggest tip for anyone currently preparing: don't just read the explanations when you get something wrong. Actually write down WHY the correct answer is right in your own words. That extra 30 seconds per question made a huge difference in retention for me. Happy to answer any questions about specific sections if anyone's struggling.