I earned 93 credits through CLEP/DSST (credit through examination) utilizing the following method:
1. Purchase CLEP study guide for the current year. This is your only purchase in my method, and really, you could just make copies from the library if they are up to date in their CLEP books.
2. Take practice exam.
3. Note which textbooks are cited for the basis of the test (in the rec. reading section of the clep prep book), go to library, check books out. Then read the chapter summaries, highlighted text, or points written in the margin. Also browse through the glossary.
4. Take and pass exam.
I only did number 3 for a few of the tests...realize that the sample tests are written at the same time and by the same individuals as the real thing. They'll be close.
Good luck! Some good ole fashion luck helps, as well as learning how to test well (eliminate the obvious distractors, etc. etc. etc.)
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