Becoming a security guard requires in-depth knowledge of the role and the ability to pass a certification exam. To help ensure success on this crucial test, we’ve gathered some helpful tips for passing your security guard exam.
These strategies provide recommended study methods and test-taking techniques that will have you feeling prepared as you line up outside of the testing center.
Read ahead to ensure you’re fully ready for every part of your exam!
Understanding the Security Guard Exam – Types of Questions, Time Limits, and Test Structure
Pursuing a career as a security guard requires passing an examination that assesses your knowledge and skill set. Understanding the security guard exam is essential to ensure ultimate success — from the types of questions to expect to the time limit for completing the exam.
Test structure will vary depending on the state and agency, but certain key components are common among all security guard exams.
- Multiple choice and true/false queries will evaluate knowledge of regulations and other industry standards.
- The security guard exam will also test practical skills such as report writing, communication, safety awareness, and judgment via scenarios in which you must choose the relevant response.
- Time limits differ between states but generally range from 1-2 hours.
Developing a Study Plan – Scheduling Time to Study, Reading Materials, and Practice Tests
Developing a study plan to advance your education is essential for successful results. Setting aside time to read your course materials and take practice tests can help you stay on track with the topics and ensure the material sticks.
It is advisable to work with an outline of key points. An outline lets you divide your reading sessions into smaller, more manageable chunks so that studying isn’t overwhelming.
Far from being tedious, prioritizing study time helps you progress in learning while also providing structure throughout the buildup to your security guard exam.
Incorporating practice tests into your study plan is advantageous. Practice tests give you an idea of what to expect on exam day. It allows you to find gaps in your understanding which can be further explored through exercises or additional reading. This, in turn, makes for an effective learning experience.
Related Article: Security Guard Jobs in Canada: Opportunities and Requirements
Memorizing Security Rules and Regulations – Focus on Key Concepts and Laws
Memorizing security rules and regulations can seem daunting. Still, with a few helpful tips, it doesn’t have to be. By focusing on key concepts and laws, you can quickly absorb and make the information your own.
Breaking down each regulation into individual components makes the overall task smaller, less intimidating, and easier to tackle. Additionally, creating associations between complex concepts or memorizing acronyms are both great ways to practice retention of security rules and regulations for later use.
With enough diligence and practice, knowing the ins and outs of security procedures becomes second nature in no time.
Taking Practice Exams – Simulating the Testing Environment and Timed Conditions
Taking practice exams can be a great way to build your confidence for the real deal. Simulating the testing environment by taking tests in quiet and distraction-free settings won’t only help you focus, but also give you an idea of what it’s like on the day of the exam.
Timed conditions and not allowing yourself too much time to answer questions can help manage your stress levels and further prepare you for similar scenarios.
And finally, whatever you do, don’t cheat when taking practice exams and try to access answers outside of what’s given. This precaution will prevent you from getting into bad habits that could harm your performance when it really counts.
Test-Taking Strategies for Maximum Success – Tips for Answering Multiple Choice Questions and Dealing with Exam Stress
When it comes to taking security guard exams, success isn’t guaranteed. But there are tried and tested multiple-choice strategies that will give you the best odds of getting the answers correct.
Take your time with your selection when answering questions on the security guard exam. Consider the possible answer choices before selecting one, and double-check for errors once you have completed the question.
Stress during an exam can be overwhelming, so it’s important to take breaks when needed. Taking deep breaths and eating and drinking something healthy can help focus your mind on the tasks ahead and minimize stress levels. For instance, a protein bar can be useful during your security guard exam.
Staying organized is essential too – breaking down difficult concepts into simple steps can really help you tackle topics quickly while managing stress at the same time.
After the Exam – Getting Results and Moving Forward with Your Career Plans
Once you have taken the security guard exam, it’s important to wait for the results patiently. Depending on the region where you take the test, you may receive your results within a few days or up to six weeks after taking the exam.
Once you know your score and have passed with flying colours, then it’s time to move forward with your career plans.
Before you start the job search, make sure to update your resume and prepare for any upcoming job interviews. Showing a potential security guard employer you’re knowledgeable about security regulations, confident in your abilities, and capable of thinking on your feet will give you an edge over other applicants.
With preparation, dedication and hard work, you can easily land the security guard job of your dreams.
Related Article: How to Obtain a Security Licence: A Step-by-Step Guide?
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, passing the security guard exam is a challenging but achievable goal. You can increase your chances of success through preparation and effective study habits.
Start by familiarizing yourself with the types of questions and the test structure as described above. Then, create a solid study plan allowing ample time to review material or take practice exams.
Ensure you understand the key concepts and regulations that will be covered on the exam to have an advantage when test day arrives.
And when you pass that test, apply for a career at Northern Force Security, Ontario’s leading corporate, concierge and personal protection services provider.
