My 2-20 exam score and this course

My 2-20 exam score and this course

by Deleted user -
Number of replies: 10

I passed this course with an 87%. I took the state exam 2 weeks ago and passed it with an 86%. I noticed many people posted their experience with this course and how it affected their scores so I figured I would do the same in case it helps anybody.

First; the week before I took the test I looked up the pass/fail rate for people that took this course in 2013, and the pass/fail rate for first time test takers in 2013 (which I was). This information is available at the Florida CFO website, by the way. The results:

74%: is the failure rate for all 2-20 test takers that took THIS course in 2013.

60%: is the failure rate for ALL FIRST TIME 2-20 test takers in 2013.

Everyone will have a unique reaction to these odds. For me it was very motivating. I spent my final week of studying with the knowledge that my chances were NOT good.

Second; I was hired on at an agency and spent 6 weeks studying using just the 2012 edition of the manual, this course, and the combined knowledge of the CSRs and agents of my agency. The ability to ask advice face-to-face is priceless. However, as I was reminded many times by my coworkers, it is NOT about the real world knowledge they provide but WHAT IS IN THE BOOK! There is no substitute for knowing that book backwards and forwards. My situation is probably unique, as my job was soley to study for this exam. As a result I was well motivated.

My suggestions for anyone taking the 2-20 are:

1. DO NOT attempt any of the practice questions in the back of the book until you have read through the whole thing and passed this course. The questions in the back are very difficult and will challenge you.

2. Be honest and objective with yourself about what you know and don't know. You can be right for the wrong reason and wrong for the right reason. After any difficult question you attempt in the course, and especially the practice questions in the book, review the question and the pertinent section in the book until you understand the concept. Never just move on because the concept is confusing and you feel you can get by just memorizing it. If you did that you could easily get through this course with a 90% having learned jack squat.

3. When reading through various policies and their exclusions, limits, coverages, endorsements, etc., quiz yourself on how it compares to other similar policies. Flip back and forth between the policies noting their similarities and differences. Eventually you will develop a clear picture in your mind of how they stack up against each other.

4. I don't care what anybody says, Section 1 is the most important part of the book. It only encompasses 6 questions on the 2-20 exam but it is the first step in understanding all the of the concepts in the book.

5. Relax. I know that is easier said that done, but if you just accept that when you sit down in front of that test your fate is already sealed and the result of the test is known. All that is left is for you to answer the questions and then they will let you know what that result is.

Good luck!

In reply to Deleted user

Re: My 2-20 exam score and this course

by Deleted user -

I too passed the state exam on Friday with a 72%.  Whew!!  I echo many of the comments given by Travis.  The largest problem for me was that after reading and re-reading the manual several times, then redoing each quiz continuously, I started to 1) over analyze each question  2) try to remember little finite details and 3) become familiar with not only the questions and answers but also the manner in which each question and answer was given.

The questions on the exam are straight forward and test common knowledge insurance concepts, property and casualty law,  They do not attempt to trip you up with small finite details but rather focus on the broader concepts.  For example, my exam (yours may be different) had one question on Aviation but eighteen each in the areas of personal and commercial auto, personal and business property.  Get the picture!!!

I personally recommend doing alot of practice questions, particular with an exam simulator. Unfortunately, the quizzes in this course are only testing  for knowledge rather than preparing you for the state exam.  The quizzes seem to test your ability to know the full definition of, for example, inside the premises-robbery or safe burglary of the property. Instead, the exam will give you a fact pattern and ask which situation would not constitute robbery or safe burglary.

Finally, the test has at least 25-35 free questions which you should get right with no problem. Knowledge of an agent's licensure requirements (i.e., CLE credits, suspensions) or a customer service representative's appointment and authority, is easy stuff and will give you some free points.

Draw motivation from the fact that only 33% of first time test takers are passing and study hard, but don't over do it.  I believe that the pass rate is low because people either over prepare (trying to memorize every small detail) or lack of preparation (especially true among prior agents who think they've got it because of their prior experience).  Strike the right balance and you will do fine.

Good luck all.  Ron.

In reply to Deleted user

Re: My 2-20 exam score and this course

by Grisel Padron -
This was very insightful look into the process. I was fortunate enough to have a one-on-one with my crash course teacher so I asked lots of questions and she queried me along the way. She also indicated specific areas of study that were going to be on the state exam so that's what I am re-reading. That combined with the Andy Beverly flash cards, i should be prepared to the best of my capability. All I want to do is pass.
In reply to Grisel Padron

Re: My 2-20 exam score and this course

by Deleted user -

Grisel you should do fine.  Just dont over study, trying for perfection to the point that you get too stressed to concentrate on the questions asked.  As I said, the questions are much simplier than those given in the back of the state manual, exam simulator or I suspect the flash cards.  Dont be surprised.  70% is a passing score, I got a 72.7%.  2.7% means that I guessed three questions right more than I needed.  No one will care once you get the license, no matter what score you receive.  Good luck.

In reply to Deleted user

Re: My 2-20 exam score and this course

by Grisel Padron -
Thanks Ronald. I've been stressing since my first attempt at the final in the back of the manual. That was before I realized I needed to actually read the manual and not just the material in this online course. Even though I'm more confident, I won't feel comfortable until I get most of the answers correctly. I just purchased a Limits Test Simulator from Andy Beverly which focuses on those annoying details like deductibles, limits, etc. It says it reduces the stress of trying to remember these details while also trying to recall the concepts. By getting these down, then the questions should be easier. Will keep you all posted. Thanks for your encouragement.
In reply to Deleted user

Re: My 2-20 exam score and this course

by Grisel Padron -
Ron, your description is astonishingly accurate. I took the exam last night and passed with a 73.3! I couldn't believe how differently the questions were presented from any other sources of information which I had four of...lol. Thank goodness I had a half hour to spare and went back to complete the ones I left unanswered. The test had 165 questions and I guess I knew more than I thought when I was taking the exam. Just happy to not be studying and can enjoy regaining my life after a four month absence..lol. I feel great and liberated and kudos to those that have aced this test. Good luck to those who haven't tested yet. You should re-post your description. It is dead on!
In reply to Grisel Padron

Re: My 2-20 exam score and this course

by Deleted user -
Congratulations Grisel. I got a 72.7. A 73.3 is like getting a 100. Either way you get a 2-20. How about that for accurate mathematics. Yeah, the test is quite tricky but nowhere as intellectually difficult as we make it out to be before the exam. Unlike other tests, over studying does not do a person justice with this exam. This is why I tried to find out before the exam, the manner in which the questions were being posed. By the time a student takes the exam, they will likely know most of the material. So why is there only a 33% pass rate for first time test takers. The logical answer, vary the wording of the test questions in a manner not presented by the exam simulators or study guides. The examiners will always be one step ahead of the student. Anyway, I hope people read my prior post and can prepare for what's coming. Congrats again.
In reply to Deleted user

Re: My 2-20 exam score and this course

by Grisel Padron -

OMG, I just remembered I was told the failure rate. I'm glad I didn't think about that........lol. Your explanations of the state exam are absolutely accurate and I do hope folks read it. None of the formulas or scenarios played a part in the way these questions were phrased. You actually have to almost memorize all the perils for HO & DP, etc. Also, they were mixing up coverages like HO with PAP and how they would work together......It would be more helpful and better learning if the exam simulators, quizzes were closer to the reality of the test so students would be better prepared. I suppose what Jan said was right in that if you fail, at least you'll have a better concept of the expectations and be ready for the next time. I'm just glad that wasn't me :-). Relatively speaking then, you got an A-.

In reply to Grisel Padron

Re: My 2-20 exam score and this course

by Deleted user -

lol. Exactly correct.  I just got my license from DFS yesterday.  Unfortunately, it did not show my A- exam grade.  Aw, too bad.  Guess I'll just have to live with it. lol.  Anyway, now the hard work comes, putting the knowledge into actual practice to close accounts and make some money.

In reply to Deleted user

Re: My 2-20 exam score and this course

by Grisel Padron -

Yeah, mine didn't have my score either............ Well, thank goodness I've been working in a global all-lines insurance company and have at least become familiar with terms, conditions and vocabulary for the different lines of coverage. No need to memorize formulas or limits since I do a lot of policy checking and have an eye for details to pick up differences. Good luck in your endeavors and happy holidays!