the test is more in-depth than the other special inspector tests i've taken. my construction experience and geotechnical/construction materials testing background helped me tremendously. plan reading is a major portion of the test and sounds simple enough until you see the plans they give you. best advice would be to be famaliar with the references for the certification and have copies of all with you. other than that, i think it boils down to how much exposure you've had in the real world. feel free to ask more/specific questions and i'll gladly help if i can. good luck.