CliffsNotes CBEST (Cliffs Test Prep CBEST)

 (8 customer reviews)

The 7th Edition of CliffsNotes CBEST does an adequate job of describing the content of the CBEST, and it gives quite an exhaustive review of the math you need to know on the test. Unlike what was stated in a previous review on here, examples for math problems ARE given, which is good.

The problem mostly lies in the reading comprehension portion of the book. Compared to the practice CBEST items given on the official California credentialing website, the reading passages in this book are far more difficult. In fact, they're just as tough as the reading passages on the GRE test (which I took in 2006)! It's nice that CliffsNotes gives you some extra reinforcement, but they should adjust the difficulty level to that of the actual CBEST examination. Boosting the difficulty only makes you feel more intimidated when the actual test comes.

Speaking of intimidation, take a look at their examples for the Writing section. The examples given for "well-written essays"...Read more

First and foremost, I'll mention that this book helped me pass the CBEST. I just got the email today saying I passed and I'm thrilled!! This book has 4 sets of practice exams which each include a Reading, Math and Writing practice test. This means there are 12 total practice tests. I took almost all of them to be sure I passed.

I found that the practice tests helped me a lot, because I learned the types of things they are expecting. There is a certain "CBEST" way of answering questions which you need to know. You'll know what I mean once you get through a few practice tests. I highly recommend this book, because not only does it have practice tests but it also has detailed strategies for taking the test.

For example: it describes a method of test taking; how to skip the ones you don't know, etc. and it worked well for me on the actual test. Some people say the book isn't necessary to pass, but personally I think it's better to go into the test with your...Read more

I purchased this book to insure that I passed the CBEST on the first try. Frankly, I barely consulted with it. Ultimately, it's just not necessary to pass; which I did by a MILE. The most useful section to me was on writing essays and reviewing the sample essays to get a feel for what the graders are looking for, which is the standard five paragraph essay.

Bottom line, there are simply too many free resources on the internet to justify purchasing this book. There are several practice tests available and the CTC has tests that best replicate the reading and math questions on their website. But, there are others if you care to hunt.

So, my advice is that if you buy this book, skip to the sections on writing the essays. Also, be aware the reading portion of the test has many questions that test your ability to infer. Plus, several will have two answers that can be correct, but you must choose the answer that is most correct. Practice your writing with supporting...Read more