First of all, thanks to all the forum members here, who have aided me in my quest.  I did pass the exam this last week with 5 Proficients, and the whole process lasted 2hrs 20 mins. It was quite anticlimactic, since I could sense that I was doing well on most of the questions as the test progressed. However, I must say that a lot of preparation did go into it. Here are a few tips, in case it helps anyone. I must say that I have friends who chose different approaches, and below are just suggestions. Each of us needs to tweak the study plan as per personal preferences.