Systems auditing is one of the most popular IT security areas that many people dream of becoming part of. Preparing for your ISACA Certified Information Systems Auditing (CISA) exam is a rigorous process. It is considered to be among the toughest IT security exams. That’s why it’s very important that you get the right study resources for your CISA exam. Getting the right CISA training books would be such a great step towards studying and passing your exam.
Let’s first take a look at some important information and statistics. Validated CISA graduates are the most sought-after systems auditing professionals today. A 2016 survey report by Osterman Research indicates that about 39% of organizations in the US had reported at least one systems security breach over the previous 12 months. The demand for more systems auditors to help in checking and auditing the information systems and networks to detect and mitigate any kind of threats has gone up.
Becoming an expert in auditing information systems requires that you go through a thorough training and prep process to pass your exam and, most of all, to gain these much-needed skills. You would need relevant books to aid you in your study.
I have made your work easier by compiling a list of the best CISA training books for your exam prep. Let’s check them out right away.
1. CISA Certified Information Systems Auditor Study Guide, 4th Edition
The CISA Certified Information Systems Auditor Study Guide, 4th Edition by David L. Cannon, is one of the most trusted resources for anyone preparing for the CISA exam. CISA, or Certified Information Systems Auditor, is a globally recognized certification for professionals in IT audit, control, and security. This guide covers all the exam objectives and provides in-depth knowledge crucial for mastering the CISA exam.
Written by David L. Cannon, an expert in systems security and founder of CertTest Training Center, the guide helps you prepare for the exam. It also offers real-world insights into auditing systems and establishing control measures, making it a valuable resource for exam success and professional development.
Comprehensive Coverage of ISACA Domains
This study guide is structured to cover all five ISACA domains required for the CISA exam. These domains include Information Systems Auditing, IT Governance, System Acquisition, Information Security, and Operations Management. Each domain is explained thoroughly, giving you the foundation to approach the exam with confidence.
Expertly Written and Professionally Reviewed
David L. Cannon’s background in systems security makes this guide a top choice for CISA preparation. Written by an expert, the content is both clear and up-to-date. The material is also proofread by professionals to ensure accuracy, providing high-quality information relevant to the latest auditing practices.
Format and Accessibility
Available in PDF format, this guide is easy to access on multiple devices, allowing you to study anytime, anywhere. Whether on your computer or mobile device, you can carry this essential study material with you, making it easy to fit study sessions into your schedule.
Practice Questions and Review Tools
One of the key features of this study guide is its inclusion of over 500 practice questions. These questions mimic the style of actual CISA exam questions, helping you familiarize yourself with the exam format. Additionally, review questions and answers at the end of each chapter reinforce your understanding and help you assess your progress.
Exam Preparation Tips
Beyond the study material, the guide provides valuable exam preparation tips. These tips cover how to approach studying, manage your time effectively, and tackle the exam confidently. By offering strategies to help with exam day, the guide ensures you’re not just learning the content but are also ready to succeed under exam conditions.
Custom Testing Engine and Flashcards
The Custom Testing Engine is another standout feature of this guide. It allows you to simulate exam-like conditions, helping you practice with real questions under timed settings. You also get electronic flashcards for quick reviews of key terms and concepts. Together, these tools provide a comprehensive and interactive study experience.
Tear Cards for Tracking Objectives
Each chapter includes tear cards that map directly to exam objectives. These cards serve as a useful tool to track your progress and ensure you’ve covered all necessary topics before the exam.
Conclusion
The CISA Certified Information Systems Auditor Study Guide, 4th Edition is a complete and practical resource for anyone preparing for the CISA exam. With expert-written content, over 500 practice questions, a testing engine, and helpful tips, this guide equips you with everything needed to succeed in the exam. It’s a reliable choice for those who want to pass the exam while gaining real-world auditing skills.
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2. CISA Certified Information Systems Auditor All-in-One Exam Guide, 3rd Edition
The CISA Certified Information Systems Auditor All-in-One Exam Guide, 3rd Edition, authored by Peter H. Gregory, is a highly recommended resource for those preparing for the CISA exam. With over 30 years of experience in cybersecurity and more than 40 published books on emerging technology and information security, Gregory’s expertise shines through in this comprehensive guide.
This prep book provides in-depth coverage of each CISA exam topic with a detailed explanation of each one of them. It covers all of the five CISA exam domains, giving you an opportunity to enrich your knowledge and skills and pass your exam.
In-Depth Coverage of CISA Domains
This guide covers the five CISA exam domains in detail. These include Information Systems Auditing, Governance and Management of IT, Information Systems Acquisition, Development, and Implementation, Information Systems Operations, and Protection of Information Assets. Gregory explains each topic thoroughly, providing a solid foundation for all exam aspects. Whether you’re new to auditing or have some experience, this book ensures you gain a comprehensive understanding of the material.
Customized Exam Testing Engine
The guide includes a customized exam testing engine. It simulates real exam conditions, allowing you to practice with accurate, exam-style questions. This tool helps you familiarize yourself with the types of questions you’ll encounter. It also helps refine your time management skills for the actual test.
Clear Objectives and Explanations
Each chapter in this guide begins with clear learning objectives, so you know exactly what to focus on. Gregory provides comprehensive explanations of each topic, breaking down complex concepts into digestible chunks. This makes it easier to grasp even the most challenging material, preparing you to tackle the CISA exam with confidence.
Practice Tests and Tips for Success
After each chapter, you’ll find practice tests that reinforce the material you’ve just learned. These tests include over 400 practice questions that mirror the format and difficulty of the actual exam. Additionally, Gregory includes tips for passing the exam, helping you stay on track and focus on what’s important. You’ll also find hands-on practice exercises that allow you to apply your knowledge in real-world scenarios.
Quick Summary and Exam Insights
To help reinforce what you’ve learned, each chapter concludes with a quick summary. This section recaps key points, ensuring that you retain the most important information. The guide also offers important exam information, such as test-taking strategies, so you’ll be well-prepared on exam day.
Conclusion
The CISA Certified Information Systems Auditor All-in-One Exam Guide, 3rd Edition is a top-notch resource for anyone pursuing a career in information systems auditing. With its in-depth coverage, detailed explanations, practical tips, and extensive practice questions, this guide equips you with everything needed to succeed on the CISA exam. Whether you’re new to the field or looking to enhance your skills, this book is an essential tool in your exam preparation.
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3. CISA Review Questions, Answers, and Explanations Manual, 11th Edition
The CISA Review Questions, Answers, and Explanations Manual, 11th Edition, developed by ISACA, is an essential study tool for CISA exam preparation. As an official resource, it provides a structured approach to mastering the required material. The manual includes over 1000 practice questions and detailed explanations for each answer. This makes it easier to understand the reasoning behind correct and incorrect responses.
The guide mirrors the format and difficulty level of the actual exam. It helps you practice and refine your knowledge while building confidence for test day. Whether you’re new to the field or looking to sharpen your skills, this resource is invaluable for passing the CISA exam.
Detailed Approach to Exam Topics
This manual takes a systematic approach to each of the core topics covered in the CISA exam. It provides in-depth coverage of the five ISACA domains, ensuring that you are well-versed in all the areas required for the exam. Each topic is broken down into manageable sections, making it easier to digest and study.
Understanding CISA Exam Question Structure
One of the standout features of this study guide is its focus on the structure of CISA exam questions. By studying the types of questions typically asked, you’ll gain a better understanding of how the exam is formatted. This will allow you to approach each question with confidence, knowing exactly what to expect.
Over 1000 Practice Questions
The manual contains a collection of over 1000 practice questions, gathered from previous CISA exams. These questions are designed to mirror the difficulty level and format of the actual exam. Working through these questions will help you familiarize yourself with the types of questions you’ll face, ensuring you are well-prepared.
Detailed Answers and Explanations
After each practice question, the guide provides detailed answers and explanations. This step-by-step breakdown helps you understand why the correct answer is right and why the other options are not. This level of detail enhances your understanding of key concepts and strengthens your ability to answer similar questions during the exam.
Focus on Exam Strategy and Test-Taking Tips
In addition to the questions and answers, this manual offers valuable exam strategies and test-taking tips. You’ll learn how to approach each section of the exam efficiently and effectively, ensuring that you can manage your time and minimize stress during the actual test.
Designed to Meet ISACA Standards
This review manual is aligned with ISACA’s exam standards, which means the content is up-to-date and accurately reflects the current CISA exam structure. It’s a trusted resource that follows the guidelines set by the certifying body, so you can be sure you’re studying the most relevant material.
Conclusion
The CISA Review Questions, Answers, and Explanations Manual, 11th Edition is a comprehensive and practical study guide for anyone preparing for the CISA exam. With its extensive collection of practice questions, detailed explanations, and clear focus on exam strategy, it’s an indispensable tool for achieving success. By using this manual, you can confidently prepare for the exam, ensuring you’re fully equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to pass.
4. CISA Exam Flashcard Study System: CISA Test Practice Questions and Review for the Certified Information Systems Auditor Exam (Cards)
The CISA Exam Flashcard Study System is a unique and effective method for preparing for the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) exam. It was created by the CISA Exam Secrets Test Prep team. This study system uses flashcards to break down complex content into smaller, digestible pieces. It’s ideal for those who need an easy-to-learn and portable study tool.
The flashcards help reinforce knowledge and improve recall through repetition. This makes it an excellent companion for anyone learning the roles and responsibilities of an IS auditor. With this system, you can study efficiently and retain key concepts. It will help ensure you’re ready for the exam.
Portable and Convenient Study Tool
One of the key benefits of this study system is its portability. The flashcards come with a micro-perforated edge, making it easy to tear them apart and carry them with you wherever you go. Whether you’re on a lunch break, commuting, or just taking a few minutes to study, you can easily pull out a flashcard and practice, making it a flexible and convenient study tool.
Breaks Down Complex Content
The CISA Exam Flashcard Study System is designed to help you understand the major content areas of the exam in bite-sized pieces. Rather than overwhelming you with lengthy chapters, this system focuses on making complex topics more accessible by breaking them down into small, manageable bits. This method helps reinforce your learning and makes it easier to remember the information when you need it most.
Practice Questions and Answers
In addition to key facts and concepts, this system includes practice questions with clear and concise answers. This allows you to test your knowledge, identify areas where you need more practice, and improve your test-taking skills. By practicing regularly with the flashcards, you can boost your confidence and ensure you’re prepared for the types of questions you’ll encounter on the CISA exam.
Simple and Straightforward Style
The CISA flashcards use simple language and clear explanations to break down complex exam topics. They avoid technical jargon and focus on presenting the content in an easy-to-understand manner, making them perfect for those who may not have an in-depth background in certain areas of information systems auditing. This straightforward style makes it easier to retain the material and apply it during the exam.
Detailed Explanations for Better Understanding
Each flashcard includes detailed explanations to help you understand the material fully. These explanations provide deeper insights into the core concepts, ensuring you grasp the meaning behind each answer. This is particularly useful for reinforcing your knowledge and gaining a thorough understanding of the topics that may appear on the CISA exam.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for an engaging and effective way to study for the CISA exam, the CISA Exam Flashcard Study System is a fantastic choice. The flashcard approach, which incorporates repetition and small, digestible pieces of information, makes studying more enjoyable and efficient. This system is perfect for those who need a portable, easy-to-understand study method that breaks down complex concepts into bite-sized, memorable bits. By using these flashcards, you can improve your understanding, enhance your memory, and feel confident walking into the CISA exam.
5. CISA Exam- Study Guide by Hemang Doshi
The CISA Exam Study Guide by Hemang Doshi offers a unique approach to preparing for the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) exam. Hemang Doshi uses straightforward and easy-to-understand language. This makes the guide ideal for those without a technical background who want to master the complexities of the CISA exam. By presenting material in simple terms, Doshi ensures that readers of all experience levels can grasp key concepts.
The guide aligns with official ISACA resources, keeping the content relevant and comprehensive. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced auditor, this guide simplifies CISA exam preparation and makes learning more engaging.
Simple Language for Easy Understanding
A key feature of this study guide is its use of simple language. While many study guides overwhelm readers with technical jargon, Doshi writes in a way that makes the guide accessible to those without a technical background. This approach explains complex audit and information system concepts in a straightforward manner, making it easier for readers to connect with the material.
Designed to Complement Training Videos
The guide is specifically designed to supplement Hemang Doshi’s CISA exam training videos, providing a more complete learning experience. If you’re using his video series to prepare for the exam, this study guide will reinforce the concepts and provide additional practice opportunities. The combination of video and written material offers a comprehensive and balanced approach to your exam prep.
Efficient Topic Reviews with SmartArts
The guide makes use of SmartArts, a visual tool that allows for quick topic reviews. This feature enables you to efficiently go over important concepts and refresh your understanding in a shorter amount of time. By summarizing key points in an easy-to-digest visual format, SmartArts enhances your ability to retain information and improve your exam readiness.
Visual Aids, Examples, and Diagrams
To further simplify the learning process, Doshi uses examples and diagrams throughout the guide. These illustrations help to clarify complex ideas, providing visual context that supports the theoretical content. Whether you’re trying to understand system auditing processes or risk management techniques, these visuals make it easier to grasp difficult topics and see real-world applications.
Practice Questions with Answers and Explanations
At the end of each chapter, you’ll find a set of practice questions, accompanied by detailed answers and explanations. This approach not only helps you test your knowledge but also aids in reinforcing concepts as you study. By understanding why an answer is correct (or incorrect), you gain deeper insights into the material and improve your problem-solving skills for the exam.
Based on ISACA’s CISA Exam Pattern
The content, including the practice questions and explanations, is aligned with the actual ISACA CISA exam pattern. This means that the questions you practice with are modeled after the format and style of the real exam, ensuring you’re well-prepared for test day. By using this guide, you can familiarize yourself with the question types and develop the test-taking strategies you need to succeed.
Conclusion
If you prefer a simple and visually engaging approach to studying for the CISA exam, Hemang Doshi’s CISA Exam Study Guide is an excellent choice. With its clear language, effective use of SmartArts, helpful examples, and practice questions, this guide is designed to simplify the exam preparation process and ensure that you feel confident and prepared. Available in both Kindle and paperback formats, this guide offers flexibility depending on your preferred study method. Whether you’re just starting or brushing up on your knowledge, this guide will help you succeed in passing the CISA exam.
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6. ISA Exam Secrets Study Guide: CISA Test Review for the Certified Information Systems Auditor Exam
The CISA Exam Secrets Study Guide is an essential resource for anyone preparing for the challenging Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) exam. Written by the CISA Exam Test Prep Team, this guide provides a comprehensive and easy-to-understand approach to mastering the exam’s content. It is designed to help you navigate through the complexities of the CISA exam and equip you with the strategies you need to succeed. The book covers every aspect of the exam in detail, breaking down intricate concepts into digestible sections that can be easily understood.
Whether you’re a first-time candidate or have prior experience in information systems auditing, this study guide offers a thorough explanation of key topics and practical tips that will make your exam preparation more effective.
Clear and Easy-to-Understand Approach
This study guide stands out for its clear, approachable writing style. It breaks down complex topics into digestible sections, making it easier for both beginners and experienced auditors to grasp the material. The authors have made a concerted effort to explain concepts and principles in simple language, ensuring that readers at all levels can understand the content without feeling overwhelmed.
Exam Tips and Strategies
One of the key features of this study guide is the valuable tips and tricks it provides. These tips include what to avoid while preparing for the exam and how to approach the actual test. The guide emphasizes practical strategies for managing your time effectively, answering questions confidently, and staying calm under pressure. You’ll also find advice on how to use practice questions efficiently, helping you focus your study efforts on areas that need improvement.
Comprehensive Coverage of CISA Exam Topics
The guide offers detailed coverage of all CISA exam topics, including auditing of information systems, IT governance and management analysis, and protection of information assets. Specific areas covered include:
- Auditing of Information Systems: Learn how to assess and audit systems effectively, ensuring they meet necessary standards and guidelines.
- IT Governance and Management: Gain insights into how IT governance is structured and how it influences management decisions.
- IS Acquisition, Development, and Maintenance: Understand the lifecycle of information systems, from acquisition through to development, operations, maintenance, and support.
Each section is tailored to ensure you have the knowledge necessary to tackle questions from all five ISACA domains, giving you a well-rounded understanding of what to expect during the exam.
Focus on Protecting Information Assets
A key focus of the guide is how to protect information assets, a critical component of the CISA exam. This section dives into the importance of safeguarding data and systems, teaching you the strategies and best practices for keeping information secure. Given the increasing threats to information systems globally, this part of the guide offers essential knowledge that will not only help you pass the exam but also become a better auditor in practice.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a beginner or someone with previous experience in systems auditing, the CISA Exam Secrets Study Guide is an excellent resource to help you prepare for the CISA exam. Its comprehensive coverage, clear explanations, and practical exam strategies make it a valuable tool for anyone looking to succeed in this challenging certification. By using this guide, you’ll gain not only the knowledge needed to pass but also the confidence and strategies to approach the exam with ease.
7. CISA Exam Prep: Certified Information Systems Auditor, 1st Edition
CISA Exam Prep: Certified Information Systems Auditor, 1st Edition, written by Michael Gregg, provides a structured and comprehensive approach to help you prepare for the CISA certification exam. As the founder of Superior Solutions, a firm specializing in information systems security auditing, Michael Gregg brings a wealth of experience and insight to the book.
This guide walks you through the recommended CISA exam topics in detail, offering tips, strategies, and practice questions that ensure you’re thoroughly prepared for the exam. Whether you’re new to auditing or looking to refine your skills, this guide offers everything you need to succeed.
Step-by-Step Approach to Exam Topics
This exam prep guide takes you step by step through the CISA exam topics, breaking down complex concepts into smaller, manageable sections. This structured approach makes it easy to grasp the material without feeling overwhelmed. By tackling one topic at a time, you can build a solid foundation of knowledge before moving on to more advanced areas.
Comprehensive Coverage of CISA Exam Domains
The book covers all five of the required CISA exam domains. These domains encompass essential areas of knowledge, including Information Systems Auditing, Governance and Management of IT, and Protection of Information Assets, among others. The guide ensures you are prepared for each domain, providing the detailed knowledge you need for the exam.
Exam Strategies and Tips
What sets this guide apart is its focus on exam strategies and prep tricks. Michael Gregg shares valuable tips for passing the CISA exam, helping you optimize your study plan and approach the test with confidence. These strategies are designed to help you work efficiently, manage your time well, and reduce any anxiety you may feel on exam day.
Practice Questions and Answers
To reinforce your learning, the guide includes practice exam questions at the end of each chapter. These questions mirror the types of questions you’ll face on the actual exam, allowing you to test your knowledge and assess your understanding of key concepts. Detailed answers and explanations follow each question, providing you with clarity on how to approach similar problems during the real exam.
Easy-to-Understand Format
The guide is designed to make the material easy to understand. By breaking down complex exam topics into digestible sections and offering clear explanations, the book ensures that you’re not just memorizing facts, but also deeply understanding the material. This makes it easier to retain key information and apply it when needed.
Conclusion
CISA Exam Prep: Certified Information Systems Auditor, 1st Edition is an excellent resource for anyone preparing for the CISA exam. Its clear, step-by-step approach, along with comprehensive coverage of all exam domains and practical exam tips, make it a standout prep guide. With the inclusion of practice questions and answers, you’ll be well-equipped to pass the CISA exam with confidence. Whether you’re just starting your CISA journey or fine-tuning your knowledge, this guide is a valuable tool for your success.
FAQs About CISA Exam Preparation and Training Books
1. What is the CISA exam and why is it so important?
The CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor) exam is a globally recognized certification offered by ISACA. It focuses on auditing, control, and security of information systems. This certification is highly respected in the field of IT security and auditing, and it demonstrates your ability to assess and manage risks in information systems. It is essential for anyone aiming to pursue a career in IT auditing, risk management, or information security, as it enhances credibility and job prospects in these fields.
2. How can I prepare for the CISA exam?
Preparing for the CISA exam requires a combination of understanding core concepts, practicing with real exam questions, and reinforcing knowledge through various study materials. To make your preparation effective:
- Focus on mastering the five CISA domains (Governance and Management of IT, IT Acquisition, Development, and Implementation, Information Systems Operations and Business Resilience, Protection of Information Assets, and Audit Process).
- Use CISA training books, online courses, and practice exams to enhance your knowledge.
- Create a study schedule that covers all exam topics and allows for review time.
3. Which CISA training book is the best for beginners?
For beginners, the “CISA Certified Information Systems Auditor Study Guide, 4th Edition” is an excellent choice. It breaks down complex topics into manageable sections and includes over 500 practice questions. The book is comprehensive and offers practical insights into real-world auditing situations, making it a perfect starting point for those new to CISA.
4. Are CISA training books enough for exam preparation?
While CISA training books are a vital resource, they should not be your only study tool. You should supplement them with:
- Online practice tests that simulate the real exam environment.
- Study groups or online forums for discussion and clarification of difficult topics.
- ISACA’s official CISA Review Manual and other trusted resources. Books provide a solid foundation, but consistent practice and understanding of the exam format are equally important for success.
5. What should I expect from good CISA training books?
A good CISA exam prep book should offer:
- In-depth coverage of all CISA domains.
- Clear explanations of complex concepts.
- Numerous practice questions with detailed answers.
- Tips and strategies for passing the exam.
- Real-world examples that relate to auditing practices. Look for books that include test engines, flashcards, or other interactive features to help reinforce your learning.
6. How do I choose the right CISA training books?
Choosing the right CISA training books depends on your learning style and level of experience. If you’re a beginner, look for books that break down complex topics and offer clear explanations. If you’re more advanced, consider books with a higher focus on practice questions and exam simulations. Also, ensure the book is up-to-date with the latest exam content and offers features like test engines, flashcards, and review questions to help you practice effectively.
7. How long should I study for the CISA exam?
The amount of time you need to study for the CISA exam depends on your background knowledge and experience. On average, most candidates spend 3 to 6 months preparing. If you’re new to the field, you may need to allocate more time to study each domain. If you already have experience in IT auditing, you might need less time but should still focus on refining your exam-taking skills.
8. Can I rely on flashcards for CISA exam preparation?
Flashcards are a great supplemental tool for reinforcing your knowledge, especially when preparing for the exam. They help you memorize key terms, concepts, and exam objectives in a simple and quick format. The “CISA Exam Flashcard Study System” is particularly useful for reviewing critical information in small, digestible chunks, making them ideal for on-the-go study sessions.
9. Is there a difference between the CISA study guides available online and the ones sold in bookstores?
In general, the content of CISA study guides is the same regardless of where you purchase them. However, online versions may come with additional features, such as digital flashcards, practice test engines, or bonus study materials like audio files or video lessons. If you prefer printed material, physical books are equally effective, but you may miss out on the digital extras that online versions provide.
10. How do I stay motivated while preparing for the CISA exam?
Staying motivated during your preparation is key to success. Here are a few tips:
- Set clear goals and track your progress.
- Take regular breaks to avoid burnout.
- Join online forums or study groups to share insights and stay accountable.
- Reward yourself for milestones reached (e.g., completing a chapter or passing a practice test).
- Keep in mind that earning the CISA certification will open many career doors in IT auditing, making your hard work worthwhile.
11. Are CISA training books suitable for self-study?
Yes, CISA training books are ideal for self-study. Most of these books are designed with self-learners in mind, providing clear explanations, practice questions, and tips for passing the exam. However, it’s helpful to complement your self-study with online forums, peer groups, or CISA review courses to ensure you understand the material thoroughly.
12. What is the cost of CISA training books?
CISA training books vary in cost depending on the publisher, edition, and format. On average, you can expect to pay between $40 and $80 for a good CISA study guide. Digital versions or bundles that include practice exams may cost more, but they often offer added value. Flashcards are typically more affordable, usually costing around $20-$30.
13. Can I find free CISA exam study resources?
Yes, there are some free CISA exam resources available online. You can find practice questions, sample tests, and discussion forums on ISACA’s website, as well as other educational platforms. However, free resources may not provide the comprehensive coverage that paid study guides offer, so it’s still recommended to invest in a good prep book for thorough exam preparation.
Final Thoughts
This list of CISA training books and materials would be useful in passing your exam. However, any prep process requires that you understand the exam objectives well and commit yourself to thorough study. Ensure that you apply the tips and techniques suggested in these books all the way from preparation to when you are sitting for your exam. This way, passing your exam and obtaining your certification would be guaranteed.
If you’re looking for a more comprehensive approach, check out our post on the best CISA review courses here.