Medical coding is one of the trending courses in the healthcare sector. To become a certified coder you need to pass the CPC (Certified professional coders) examination. So, are you preparing for a medical coding exam and feeling a little nervous? Don’t worry — you are not alone! Many students feel anxiety when they start studying for this important test. But with the right approach, you can feel confident and ready. In this guide, we will share Top 10 Tips to Pass Your Medical Coding Exam on the First Try, written especially for students like you. Whether you are just starting or getting ready to take the test soon, these medical coding exam tips will help you succeed.
1. Understand the Format of the Exam
Before anything else, make sure you understand what the exam is all about. Before starting your preparation, it’s essential to understand the format of the medical coding certification exam.
This examination is conducted by AAPC (American academy of professional coders) only they have the authority to conduct the examination and after passing the exam they will release CPC certification.
You will get 100 multiple-choice questions; The passing percentage is 70% and the duration of the examination is 4 hours.
You are allowed to bring and use the following manuals:
- CPT® (Current Procedural Terminology)
- ICD-10-CM (Diagnosis codes)
- HCPCS Level II (National codes)
Start by getting a medical coding exam study guide. These guides explain what will be tested and how the questions are structured. This is your roadmap to success!
When faced with challenging questions, eliminate obviously incorrect answers to narrow down your choices. This technique increases the likelihood of selecting the correct answer.
2. Stick to a Study Schedule
One of the best is to stay organized. Don’t cram all your studying into one week. This is very important if you want to pass the examination then you have consistent study habits . Instead, create a study schedule that spreads out your learning over a few months. Study for about an hour a day and take short breaks to stay fresh.
Try using a calendar or planner to track your progress. Keeping a regular schedule will help you retain more information and reduce stress.
3. Use Flashcards for Key Terms and Codes
Medical coding involves learning numerous codes and medical terms. While not all are equally important, certain key codes must be memorized. Flashcards are a great way to learn and review. You can buy them or make your own.
Break down the codes into categories and quiz yourself regularly means you need to practice on a daily basis. This is one of the easiest medical coding exam tips that really works.
4. Practice with Sample Questions
Want to know how to pass a medical coding exam on the first try? Practice, practice, and practice! Use practice exams and sample questions to get used to the types of questions you will see on the test.
Many medical coding exam study guides include practice tests. The more you practice, the more confident you’ll become. You’ll also spot areas where you need to study more.
Consistently taking practice exams helps identify weak areas and improves familiarity with the exam format. Aim to score in the 80s on practice tests to build confidence.
5. Take an Online Prep Course
If you’re still unsure about your skills, consider taking an online medical coding exam prep course. These courses are taught by experienced professionals and often include video lessons, quizzes, and full practice exams.
These courses follow the exact topics covered in the certification test. They are a great way to review everything in a structured way and boost your chances to pass the medical coding exam first try.
6. Focus on Time Management
During the real exam, time can be your biggest enemy. Although the examination is 4 hours long, it is still not easy to solve all the questions. You cannot spend too long on one difficult question and not finish the test. That’s why one of the smartest medical coding exam tips is learning to manage your time.
When practicing, time yourself. Try to answer each question in less than 2 minutes.
Since all questions carry equal weight, tackle the ones you find easier first to secure those points. Return to more complex questions later, ensuring efficient time management.
7. Join a Study Group or Find a Study Buddy
Studying with others can help you stay motivated and learn faster. You can ask questions, explain concepts to others, and quiz each other.
If you are having trouble finding someone, try online forums or Facebook groups for medical coding students. These communities often share tips for medical coding exam success and resources to help you.
If you’re struggling with specific topics, a tutor can provide personalized guidance and clarify complex concepts, enhancing your understanding and performance.
8. Get Comfortable with Your Coding Books
You are allowed to use coding books (like CPT, ICD-10, and HCPCS) during most certification exams, you must be thinking this will be easy if it is an open book examination but only if you know how to use them quickly. Take time to get familiar with how the books are organized. Use tabs and highlights to mark important sections.
Knowing exactly where to look can save your time and help you avoid wrong answers. It is a key strategy in how to pass a medical coding exam successfully.
9. Stay Positive and Take Care of Yourself
Believe it or not, your mindset matters a lot. To pass any exam or CPC. Stay positive and don’t let fear take over. The exam may be tough, but it is not impossible. You just need to be calm and learn tips and techniques to pass the examination.
You need enough sleep, eat healthy meals, and take breaks when you need them. Taking care of your body helps your brain stay sharp. Being in good mental and physical shape is one of the most underrated medical coding certification exam tips.
10. Review and Reflect Before the Big Day
A few days before the exam, start reviewing rather than learning new material. Go over your notes, flashcards, and practice tests. This helps reinforce everything you have learned.
Visit the exam location beforehand, arrive early, and bring necessary materials. Being well prepared logistically reduces stress and allows you to focus entirely on the exam.
Final Thoughts
Passing your exam on the first try is possible and many people have actually done this so you can also do this even if thousands of students do it every year. Just remember, there is no magic trick. It takes planning, focus, and the right tools. Use these Top 10 Tips to Pass Your Medical Coding Exam on the First Try to guide your journey.
- Get familiar with your coding books
- Take care of your mind and body
- Review before the exam
You can also join CareerInPharma is one of India’s leading training institutes for pharma and coding courses, offering expert guidance for CPC and other certifications. They provide amazing guidance and certified trainers will train you for medical coding programs as well as CPC. They will give lots of assessments and Q & A. They will give you tips and tricks that will help you to pass the exam on the first attempt.
Hi, Thanks for visiting my website. I am Dr Neema Bisht, Director and Co-Founder at CareerInPharma, India’s largest online training company for healthcare professionals in pharma industry. I am a dentist by degree and after working in various pharma companies at several positions, I am now on a mission to guide 1L+ healthcare professionals including doctors and life-science graduates into making amazing careers into pharma companies who are ready to hire them with various perks and benefits.
