No “one best way” to prepare
One of the great and pervasive myths of human resource certification is that there is an official, sanctioned way to study for the PHR and SPHR exams. We are often asked if the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI) endorses our product. No, they don’t. HRCI does not endorse any product; they are adamant on this point. Here it is in black and white (from the HRCI website):
What is the best approach to prepare for the exam? The certification exam is based on work experience. . . . We do not endorse any products nor maintain information on them.
Is it true that HRCI does not endorse the SHRM learning system? HRCI does not endorse any specific preparation method.
Why is the language so drastically different on the test than the learning material? There is no material that “teaches to the exam”. The two are developed indpendently. HRCI has nothing to do with the development of the Learning System. The exam questions come from HR professionals working in the field.
There are as many ways to prepare for the HR certification exam as there are people preparing to take it. My advice to those heading down that path is to collect as much information as you can about the options available, and make the choice that best fits your situation.