SHRM Certification Prep: Study Guide & Practice Exam Questions
The SHRM study guide and practice exam questions are SHRM study Materials that assist candidates in preparing for both the SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP exams.
Overview of the SHRM Study Guide

This study guide is an excellent supplemental resource for candidates who want to reinforce their understanding of the SHRM BASK and improve their test-taking skills. 72% of successful SHRM-CP candidates and 78% of SHRM-SCP passers utilized the official study guide in their preparation. Learn the best way to preparing for the SHRM exams.
SHRM Practice Test Questions
In addition to the study guide, candidates can benefit from practice test questions specifically designed for the SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP exams. Prepsaret offers free SHRM-CP practice test questions and free SHRM-SCP practice test questions , providing candidates with an opportunity to assess their readiness.

Key features of Prepsaret’s practice tests include:
- High-Quality Questions: The practice tests are designed to mimic the actual exam format and difficulty level, ensuring that candidates are well-prepared for test day. The questions are carefully crafted to cover all key areas of the SHRM BASK.
- Recent Updates: Prepsaret regularly updates its practice questions to reflect the latest changes in the SHRM certification exams, ensuring that candidates are studying the most relevant material. The practice tests are updated at least twice a year to align with any exam updates.
- Well-Explained Answers: Each practice question is accompanied by a thorough explanation of the correct answer, allowing candidates to learn from their mistakes and reinforce their understanding of key concepts. The explanations provide insights into the reasoning behind each answer choice.
- User-Friendly Platform: Prepsaret’s online platform is easy to navigate, making it simple for candidates to access practice tests and track their progress. The platform offers features such as performance tracking, progress reports, and the ability to create custom practice tests based on specific topics or areas of weakness.
Additionally, Prepsaret’s SHRM-CP Test Prep contains study guides and workbooks provide insights into the exam structure and also includes practice questions that have been previously administered. By incorporating these practice test questions into their study routine, candidates can enhance their exam readiness and build confidence in their abilities.
SHRM-CP Practice Test
Taking SHRM-CP practice tests is an essential component of effective exam preparation. These practice tests simulate the actual exam experience and provide candidates with valuable insights into their readiness. The benefits of taking SHRM-CP practice tests include:
- Familiarity with Exam Format: Practice tests help candidates become accustomed to the structure and timing of the actual exam, reducing anxiety on test day. The SHRM-CP exam consists of 160 multiple-choice questions and situational judgment questions, and practice tests allow candidates to experience this format firsthand.
- Identifying Knowledge Gaps: By reviewing practice test results, candidates can pinpoint areas where they need to focus their studies, allowing for more targeted preparation. Practice tests provide detailed performance reports that highlight strengths and weaknesses, enabling candidates to optimize their study time.
- Improving Time Management: Practice tests enable candidates to practice pacing themselves, ensuring they can complete the exam within the allotted time. The SHRM-CP exam allows 4 hours to complete all questions, and practice tests help candidates develop strategies for managing their time effectively.
Where Can I Find SHRM-CP Practice Tests?
Candidates can find high-quality SHRM practice tests on Prepsaret, which offers a range of features to enhance the study experience. Prepsaret’s practice tests are regularly updated to reflect the latest exam content, ensuring candidates are studying relevant material. The practice tests are updated within 30 days of any changes to the SHRM-CP exam.
- Mimics Actual Test Conditions: The practice tests are designed to closely resemble the actual SHRM-CP exam, providing candidates with an authentic testing experience. The questions are of similar difficulty and cover the same competencies and knowledge areas as the real exam.
- Detailed Answer Explanations: Each practice question is followed by a comprehensive explanation of the correct answer, helping candidates understand the rationale behind each response. The explanations provide insights into the thought process behind the correct answer choice.
- User-Friendly Interface: Prepsaret’s platform is easy to use, allowing candidates to access practice tests and track their progress efficiently. The platform offers a clean and intuitive design, making it simple for candidates to focus on their studies without any distractions.
- Comprehensive Coverage: The practice tests cover all key areas of the SHRM BASK, ensuring candidates are well-prepared for every aspect of the exam. The questions are weighted according to the exam blueprint, providing a realistic representation of the actual test.
- Flexible Study Options: Candidates can take practice tests at their convenience, allowing them to fit study sessions into their busy schedules. The practice tests are available 24/7 through Prepsaret’s online platform, making it easy for candidates to access them whenever they have time.
By using Prepsaret’s SHRM-CP practice tests into their study plan, candidates can maximize their chances of success on exam day. 75% of successful SHRM-CP candidates utilized practice tests from Prepsaret or other providers in their preparation.
SHRM-SCP Practice Test
Similar to the SHRM-CP, taking practice tests for the SHRM-SCP exam is crucial for effective preparation. These practice tests provide candidates with insights into their readiness and help them refine their test-taking strategies. The advantages of taking SHRM-SCP practice tests include:
- Understanding Advanced Concepts: The SHRM-SCP exam focuses on strategic HR practices, and practice tests help candidates familiarize themselves with advanced concepts and scenarios. The questions on the SHRM-SCP exam are more complex and require a deeper understanding of HR strategy and business acumen.
- Assessing Readiness: Practice tests allow candidates to gauge their preparedness for the exam, helping them identify strengths and weaknesses. By taking practice tests throughout their preparation, candidates can monitor their progress and adjust their study plans accordingly.
- Enhancing Test-Taking Skills: Regular practice helps candidates develop effective test-taking strategies, improving their ability to manage time and answer questions accurately. Practice tests provide valuable insights into the types of questions asked on the SHRM-SCP exam and the best approaches for answering them.
Candidates can access SHRM-SCP test prep on Prepsaret, which offers several features to enhance the study experience. Prepsaret ensures that its practice tests are regularly updated to align with the latest exam content and format.
The practice tests are updated within 30 days of any changes to the SHRM-SCP exam, ensuring that candidates are studying the most current material. These SHRM-SCP practice tests:
- Mimics Actual Test Conditions: The practice tests are designed to replicate the actual SHRM-SCP exam experience, helping candidates feel more comfortable on test day. The questions are of similar difficulty and cover the same competencies and knowledge areas as the real exam, providing a realistic testing environment.
- Have Well-Explained Answers: Each practice question comes with a detailed explanation of the correct answer, allowing candidates to learn from their mistakes and reinforce their understanding of key concepts. The explanations provide insights into the reasoning behind each answer choice, helping candidates develop a deeper understanding of the material.
- Flexible Study Options: Candidates can take practice tests at their convenience, allowing them to integrate study sessions into their busy schedules. The practice tests are available 24/7 through Prepsaret’s online platform, making it easy for candidates to access them whenever they have time.
SHRM Learning System for SHRM-CP/SHRM-SCP
Self-Study
Self-study is a popular approach for many candidates preparing for the SHRM certification exams. The SHRM Learning System is the primary resource for self-study, offering a comprehensive and interactive online learning experience.
- Customizable Study Plans: Candidates can create personalized study schedules based on their individual knowledge gaps and exam dates.
- Interactive Learning Modules: The system features engaging content, including videos, reading materials, and quizzes that cover all key topics.
- Practice Questions: With over 2,700 practice questions, candidates can assess their understanding of the material and identify areas that need further review.
- Progress Tracking: The system allows candidates to monitor their progress, helping them stay on track and adjust their study plans as needed.
Self-study is particularly beneficial for those who prefer a flexible learning pace and wish to balance their preparation with work and personal commitments. According to a survey conducted by SHRM, 65% of candidates who passed the SHRM-CP exam and 72% of those who passed the SHRM-SCP exam utilized self-study as their primary preparation method.
Study Aids & Add-Ons
Candidates can enhance their study efforts with various study aids and add-ons. These resources are designed to provide additional practice, insights, and support throughout the preparation process. Some key study aids include:
- Official SHRM Study Guide: This guide offers a structured overview of the exam content, including behavioral competencies and technical knowledge areas. It features practice questions and detailed explanations to reinforce learning. The study guide is used by 57% of successful SHRM-CP candidates and 63% of SHRM-SCP candidates.
- Workbooks: The SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP workbooks contain unique practice questions and situational judgment items that mirror the actual exam format. These workbooks help candidates familiarize themselves with the types of questions they will encounter. 40% of SHRM-CP passers and 47% of SHRM-SCP passers utilize these workbooks.
- Retired Exam Questions: Utilizing retired exam questions allows candidates to practice with authentic content that has previously appeared on SHRM certification exams. This exposure can significantly enhance their understanding of the exam structure and question types. 35% of SHRM-CP passers and 41% of SHRM-SCP passers incorporate retired questions into their study routine.
- Test-Taking Strategies: Many study aids include tips for managing test anxiety, budgeting time effectively, and optimizing study habits based on feedback from past test-takers. 52% of successful SHRM-CP candidates and 59% of SHRM-SCP candidates found test-taking strategies helpful in their preparation.
These study aids and add-ons can be used alongside the SHRM Learning System or as standalone resources to bolster exam preparation.
Instructor-Led Learning
For candidates who thrive in a structured environment, instructor-led learning offers a valuable alternative to self-study. SHRM provides various instructor-led options, including classroom, virtual, and hybrid formats.
Candidates receive direct instruction from SHRM-certified instructors who can provide insights, answer questions, and clarify complex topics. Classroom settings foster collaboration and discussion among peers, enhancing the overall learning experience.
60% of SHRM-CP passers and 68% of SHRM-SCP passers found the interactive nature of instructor-led courses beneficial. Instructor-led courses follow a defined syllabus that ensures comprehensive coverage of all exam topics, helping candidates stay organized and focused.
55% of successful SHRM-CP candidates and 63% of SHRM-SCP candidates cited structured curriculum as a key factor in their preparation. Engaging with fellow HR professionals in a classroom setting can create valuable networking connections and support systems.
48% of SHRM-CP passers and 52% of SHRM-SCP passers mentioned networking as a benefit of instructor-led learning. Instructor-led learning is ideal for candidates who prefer a more guided approach and benefit from real-time interaction with instructors and peers.
Related Post: How Long Does it Take to Get SHRM Certified
FAQs
How to study for SHRM for free?
Studying for SHRM certification for free can be achieved by leveraging various online resources and tools. Candidates can access free practice questions and study materials available on websites like SHRM's official site, which often provides retired exam questions and sample items.
Additionally, platforms like Prepsaret offer free SHRM practice test questions that cover key HR concepts. Joining local SHRM chapters or online study groups can also provide networking opportunities and access to shared resources among peers preparing for the same exams.
How hard is it to pass the SHRM exam?
The difficulty of passing the SHRM exam can vary based on individual preparation and familiarity with HR concepts. Generally, candidates report that the SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP exams are challenging due to their comprehensive nature and the requirement to apply knowledge to situational judgment items.
Research indicates that candidates who utilize SHRM study materials, such as the SHRM Learning System and practice exams, tend to have higher pass rates.
Moreover, the exams require a solid understanding of both technical HR knowledge and behavioral competencies, making thorough preparation essential. With adequate study time and the right resources, many candidates successfully pass the exam on their first attempt.
How long should I study for SHRM certification?
The recommended study duration for SHRM certification varies depending on the exam and the candidate's prior knowledge and experience in HR. On average, candidates should allocate approximately 80-100 hours of study time for both the SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP exams.
This timeframe allows for a comprehensive review of the SHRM BASK, practice with exam questions, and familiarization with test-taking strategies. It's advisable to create a structured study plan that spans several weeks or months, allowing for consistent study sessions and time to revisit challenging topics.
Ultimately, the key is to ensure that candidates feel confident and well-prepared by the time they sit for their exam.