So I finally passed the PCE last month after two failed attempts and I honestly can't believe it took me this long to figure out what I was doing wrong. First two times I just read through Dutton's and highlighted stuff, told myself I understood it, and showed up thinking that was enough. Scored a 68 and then a 71 — so close but not there.
What changed everything was actually doing timed PCE practice test questions under real conditions. Like, phone away, timer running, no pausing. I realized I was losing points not because I didn't know the content but because I couldn't manage the pace. I also found a study guide that organized neuro and musculoskeletal by impairment patterns instead of just anatomy, which clicked way better for my brain.
Anyone else struggle with the cardiopulmonary section specifically? That was my weakest area all three times and I'd love to hear how others approached it. I scored an 82 on my passing attempt if that helps anyone gauge where they need to be.