While studying for the CPTD exam, I created a spreadsheet to help determine the best strategy for answering the scenario‑based questions. I’m sharing it in case it helps others as well. A bit of explanation is needed to use the spreadsheet effectively.
All data you enter should come from your Pearson VUE practice tests. You’ll need to track:
- The answers you selected
- Any answers you considered selecting
- The actual correct answers
Here’s how to use the spreadsheet:
Cells B2–J34
Enter the number 1 in a cell if you selected that answer.
Example (Step 1)
A TD professional is leading an 8‑hour class for 12 participants. Four participants arrive one hour late. The rest of the group has already broken into teams and begun team‑building exercises. What should the TD professional do?
- Explain the activity to the new arrivals
- Have everyone pause
- Put the new arrivals in their own group
- Repeat instructions to everyone
- Discuss ground rules with the new arrivals
- Ask the new arrivals why they are late
If you selected A and C, enter 1 in cells B2 and B4.
If you considered selecting E, enter 1 in AA2.
Now assume the correct answers were A, C, and E.
Enter 1 in cells L2, N2, and Q2.
Continue this process for all 33 questions.
Results Section
Once all data is entered, the spreadsheet formulas will calculate several useful metrics:
- B73: Total number of correct choices
- B74: Total number of incorrect choices
- B75: Total points earned
- (+1 for each correct choice, –1 for each incorrect choice)
- B76: Score as a percentage
Cells B78, B79, B80, B82, and B83 provide additional summary information.
By tracking both the choices I made and the choices I almost made, I was able to see how often my instincts were accurate. This helped me develop a strategy for when trusting my instincts would be most beneficial during the exam.
I hope this spreadsheet supports you on your journey to passing the CPTD exam.