The Certified Professional Coder (CPC) certification offered by the AAPC (American Academy of Professional Coders) is one of the most respected credentials in the medical coding industry. Earning your CPC certification can open doors to new career opportunities, higher pay, and professional recognition. However, passing the exam requires focus, strategy, and structured preparation.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through an effective CPC exam preparation strategy, study tips, and a customized study plan to help you succeed. Know More
1. Understanding the CPC Certification
Before jumping into preparation, it’s important to know what the CPC exam is all about.
The CPC exam evaluates your ability to read medical charts, apply correct CPT®, ICD-10-CM, and HCPCS Level II codes, and understand healthcare regulations.
- Exam duration: 4 hours
- Number of questions: 100 multiple-choice questions
- Passing score: 70%
- Format: Open-book Examination
Key Areas Covered:
- CPT (Surgery, Radiology, Pathology, Medicine, etc.)
- ICD-10-CM diagnosis coding
- HCPCS Level II coding
- Compliance, Medical terminology, Anatomy, and Coding guidelines
2. Step-by-Step CPC Exam Preparation Strategy
Step 1: Get Familiar with the Exam Format
Start by understanding the AAPC CPC exam structure. Review the AAPC CPC Exam Content Outline so you know what areas to prioritize.
Tip: Focus more on CPT coding since it makes up the majority of the exam.
Step 2: Use the Right Study Materials
Invest in the latest edition of:
- CPT® Professional Edition
- ICD-10-CM
- HCPCS Level II
- AAPC’s official CPC Study Guide
Also consider:
- AAPC’s online courses
- YouTube tutorials and coding webinars
- Practice exams and flashcards
Step 3: Master Medical Terminology and Anatomy
Accurate coding requires understanding medical terms and body systems.
Create flashcards for:
- Prefixes, suffixes, and root words
- Common surgical procedures
- Human anatomy diagrams
Example:
If you see “laparoscopic cholecystectomy,” you should instantly recognize it as the removal of the gallbladder using a laparoscope.
Step 4: Learn Coding Guidelines Thoroughly
Guidelines are the backbone of correct coding. Even if you know the codes, missing a guideline can cost points.
Focus on:
- CPT modifiers (especially 25, 59, 51)
- ICD-10-CM conventions and chapter-specific notes
- Global surgical package concepts
Step 5: Practice, Practice, Practice
Consistent practice improves accuracy and speed.
What to do:
- Take timed practice tests regularly
- Review wrong answers and understand why
- Simulate real exam conditions
Tip: Time management is crucial, aim to spend no more than 2.5 minutes per question.
Step 6: Highlight and Tab Your Books
Since the CPC exam is open-book, organization is key.
Use colored tabs and highlighters for:
- CPT section dividers (Evaluation & Management, Surgery, Radiology, etc.)
- Common modifiers and guidelines
- Quick reference notes
This will help you locate answers faster during the exam.
Step 7: Join a Study Group or Online Forum
Interacting with others preparing for the CPC can be motivating and insightful.
- Join AAPC local chapters or Telegram/Discord groups
- Discuss difficult cases or questions
- Exchange study materials
3. Sample 8-Week CPC Study Plan
| Week | Focus Area | Activities |
| 1 | Overview of CPC Exam, Basics of Coding | Read AAPC CPC Study Guide, Review coding books, Understand structure |
| 2 | ICD-10-CM | Learn coding guidelines, Chapters, and coding rules |
| 3–4 | CPT Coding (E/M, Surgery, Anesthesia) | Deep dive into CPT sections, practice coding exercises |
| 5 | HCPCS & Modifiers | Learn Level II codes and key modifiers |
| 6 | Anatomy, Physiology & Terminology | Use flashcards and quick quizzes |
| 7 | Full-Length Practice Tests | Take at least 2 mock exams under timed conditions |
| 8 | Revision & Weak Area Focus | Review mistakes, recheck important guidelines |
4. Last-Minute CPC Exam Tips
- Sleep well before exam day – a fresh mind codes better!
- Arrive early with all your materials (books, ID, etc.)
- Don’t get stuck on one question, just mark and move on.
- Eliminate obvious wrong answers first.
- Manage time carefully, aim for two passes through the paper.
5. After the Exam
Once you complete the CPC exam, you’ll typically receive your results within 24 -48hours. If you don’t pass on your first attempt, don’t get discouraged, review your weak areas and retake it after targeted preparation.
Remember, certification is a milestone, not the end. Continue learning, attend workshops, and stay updated with coding guideline changes every year.
Conclusion
Passing the CPC certification exam is achievable with the right study plan and consistent effort. Focus on understanding concepts, practicing regularly, and staying confident. Once certified, you’ll step into a rewarding career in the healthcare revenue cycle, one that values accuracy, knowledge, and dedication.
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