Certified General Designation: Best Practices to Prepare for the Comprehensive Exam
Earning your Certified General (CG) designation is a major milestone in your appraisal career. But before you can hold the title, you must first pass the Comprehensive Exam—a multi-module test covering all aspects of advanced valuation practice. Success starts with proven preparation strategies. This blog highlights the best practices that successful candidates use to master the exam and earn their CG credentials.
Understand What the CG Designation Means
The Certified General designation qualifies appraisers to evaluate all types of real property, including complex commercial and income-generating assets. It’s the highest level of licensure in most states and signals advanced expertise in:
Valuation methodology
Market and income analysis
Property law and ethics
Highest & Best Use theory and application
The path begins with mastering and passing the Comprehensive Exam, administered by the Appraisal Institute.
Best Practice #1: Know the Exam Inside and Out
The Comprehensive Exam includes four modules:
General Concepts
Cost Approach and Highest & Best Use
Sales Comparison Approach
Income Capitalization Approach
Each module is tested separately under timed conditions and must be passed individually. Familiarize yourself with exam formats, time limits, and Pearson VUE test-day policies.
Best Practice #2: Start with a Prep Timeline That Works
Success doesn’t happen overnight. Build a plan with these key components:
8 to 10 weeks of study
2–3 hours per day, six days a week
Weekly module focus and review sessions
Practice problems and simulated exams on weekends
Adjust your schedule to match your strengths and weaknesses.
Best Practice #3: Use Official and Proven Study Materials
Use only trusted and up-to-date sources aligned with the Appraisal Institute curriculum. These include:
The Comprehensive Exam Guidebook
McKissock or CompuCram exam simulators
Appraisal Institute practice test question books
Formula sheets for cost, income, and adjustment methods
Avoid outdated or generic materials that don't reflect current exam standards.
Best Practice #4: Master the General Concepts First
This module is the least technical but forms the base for all others. Focus on:
Valuation process and definitions
Influences on real property value
Ethics and USPAP compliance
Understanding types of value and appraisal purpose
Use daily flashcard reviews and concept quizzes to stay sharp.
Best Practice #5: Approach Each Module with a Game Plan
Don’t treat every module the same—tailor your approach:
Cost & HBU
Practice estimating costs using various methods
Study depreciation types and their effects
Apply HBU tests to real-world scenarios
Use logic to defend your highest and best use conclusions
Sales Comparison
Practice adjustment grids
Understand paired sales and market evidence
Know how to bracket and reconcile effectively
Income Capitalization
Solve direct cap and DCF problems
Work through lease analysis, vacancy assumptions, and reversion calculations
Get fluent in using band of investment and equity yield models
Best Practice #6: Simulate Exam Conditions Weekly
Once you're in the review phase, it’s all about execution. Simulate:
Timed modules without notes or distractions
Practice under the same tools allowed during the real test
Use Pearson VUE’s interface emulator if available
Review and analyze all mistakes
Realistic practice reduces nerves and boosts performance on exam day.
Best Practice #7: Prepare for Test Day Like a Professional
Logistics matter. On the day of your exam:
Get rest the night before
Eat a balanced meal and hydrate
Arrive early with your ID and tools
Pace yourself and flag difficult questions
Stay calm, focus on each question, and trust your preparation
Preparing for the Certified General designation requires commitment, strategy, and the use of proven best practices. From building the right study plan to simulating exam conditions and mastering each module’s unique demands, every step you take builds your readiness. Follow these tips, stay consistent, and you’ll be ready to earn the CG designation and elevate your appraisal career to its highest level.