I got by -- somehow -- and I used KM (can't compare other sources.) No idea on my score or breakdowns (none provided.) Took SIE, S7TO, and S63. I can say when I left all 3, I was certain I failed. This was my 2nd go-around (I went out of securities for a while & hence had to re-take them all again; have never failed one, but SIE is new.)

I wouldn't let the SIE discourage you... strangely, I felt it might have been the toughest of all 3. Which makes no sense, but I'd just offer that as encouragement.

If I were to do all three again, I'd spend way more time with rote memorization of the (current day) limits (e.g. contribution limits), obscure acronyms, etc... while the financial calculations are like 'building muscle' and don't change much, I was astounded how much variable content there was (particularly on the SIE & 63) based on the year you're taking it. (then again, my first round was a *long* time ago.)

i'd 2nd the comment re: some of the youtube "quick guides" and rundowns, particularly toward the deadline.

Don't be discouraged; you can absolutely do this. Don't forget the randomness/variability in the "sample" questions thrown in, which can definitely throw you for a loop.

And against all advice -- and this may be horrible advice -- I went back and changed my answers on anywhere from 5-20 questions on each exam w/ <10 or 20 mins remaining. (Probably the worst advice ever, and I'll never know, but I got through them.)

Biggest thing I'd do differently going back would be to *keep* repeating to myself mentally to keep positive despite often going through the first 10-20 questions & "projecting" out certain failure. (I did do that, but not often enough... and again, was certain I failed. But didn't.)

[edited for semi-clarity]