Understanding the Variability in CIPS Exam Difficulty Across Different Modules
The Chartered Institute of Purchasing & Supply (CIPS) qualification is highly regarded in the procurement and supply chain management professions. However, candidates often wonder whether the difficulty level of the CIPS exams varies significantly between different modules, especially at Level 4. This article aims to shed light on this question, drawing from recent candidate experiences and insights.
Reflecting on Personal Experience with Level 4 Modules
A candidate recently shared their journey with the Level 4 Marketing and Procurement (L4M2) exam. Initially, they relied on the official study guide but found its content to be somewhat dry and repetitive, which led to a loss of motivation for preparation. In an effort to supplement their understanding, they turned to alternative resources, including video lectures from Procurement Study Buddy and condensed notes generated using ChatGPT.
Surprisingly, the actual exam proved to be more approachable than anticipated. The questions were straightforward, with most requiring only a basic comprehension of concepts and the application of common sense. Unlike the more complex, two-answer multiple-choice questions characteristic of projects like PMP, the L4M2 exam’s questions were clear and manageable with the summarized notes. This experience prompted the candidate to question whether this ease was unique to L4M2 or indicative of the general difficulty level across Level 4 modules.
Queries and Call for Insights
The candidate is now curious about the relative difficulty of other Level 4 modules and higher-level courses within the CIPS qualification. They inquire whether certain modules tend to be more challenging or confusing than others and are eager to hear from colleagues who have undertaken additional modules at Level 4 or beyond.
Their goal is to better understand the variability in exam difficulty to inform effective study strategies and set realistic expectations.
Additional Resources and Tips
For those interested in exam preparation, the candidate has shared links to ChatGPT-generated summaries of relevant study videos. While some technical terms may be slightly inaccurate (e.g., “Craddock” instead of “Kraljic”), the core concepts are generally clear if the videos have been reviewed beforehand.
Conclusion
The perception of exam difficulty in the CIPS qualification may vary depending on the module and individual preparation. Personal experiences suggest that some modules, like L4M2, can be more straightforward than anticipated, especially when supplemented with targeted study resources. However, the complexity and challenge of other modules can differ, emphasizing the importance of understanding the specific content and question styles involved.
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