If you’re gearing up for an actuarial exam, you already know the journey can be intense. The secret to success doesn’t just lie in raw talent or luck—it’s about using the right study materials that fit your learning style and goals. When I first started, I felt overwhelmed by the sheer number of resources available. But after helping hundreds of candidates prepare, I’ve narrowed it down to three top contenders that consistently deliver results: ASM, Coaching Actuaries, and The Infinite Actuary (TIA). Each has its strengths and quirks, so let’s unpack these options and see how you can maximize your exam success.

First, let’s talk about why investing in specialized actuarial study materials is crucial. The Society of Actuaries’ official syllabus covers a broad range of topics, like general probability, univariate and multivariate distributions, and various calculus concepts. While you can technically learn these from college textbooks, the problem is those books aren’t tailored to what you’ll see on the exam. They’re often dense and full of theory, without the focused practice you need. That’s where these study materials come in: they condense the syllabus into manageable lessons, highlight the types of questions you’ll face, and most importantly, provide you with plenty of practice problems and mock exams to build your confidence and speed[1].

Starting with ASM (Actuarial Study Materials), this has been a long-standing favorite for many actuarial candidates. What I like about ASM is its traditional approach—printed manuals with detailed explanations and a strong focus on formulas. It’s perfect if you’re someone who prefers a textbook-style learning experience and likes to study at your own pace. Plus, purchasing an ASM manual gives you access to the GOAL platform, which offers a ton of exam-style problems across three difficulty levels: Core, Advanced, and Mastery. You can practice in different modes—practice, quiz, or simulated exams—giving you flexibility to build skills progressively[3]. The downside? ASM doesn’t offer free trials, so you’re committing upfront. Also, if you learn better through videos or interactive content, you might find ASM a bit dry.

Coaching Actuaries, on the other hand, brings a more modern, interactive edge to exam prep. Their Learn + Adapt platform is a standout because it personalizes your study plan based on your progress. They combine study manuals with engaging video lessons that break down complex concepts in a clear, approachable way. After each lesson, you get targeted quizzes that reinforce what you’ve learned, plus a massive question bank for practice. One thing I appreciate is how the platform tracks your strengths and weaknesses and adjusts your assignments accordingly, so you’re always focusing on what matters most[4]. This adaptive learning makes your prep more efficient, especially if you’re balancing work or school. Coaching Actuaries tends to be on the pricier side, but many find the investment worthwhile for the quality and support.

Then there’s The Infinite Actuary (TIA), which is gaining popularity for its comprehensive online courses and accessibility. TIA offers free access to Exam P prep materials, which is a huge bonus if you’re on a budget but still want high-quality content. Their courses cover all the essential topics and include video lectures, practice questions, and timed exams to simulate the real testing environment. One feature that stands out is their mobile app, letting you study on the go—perfect for those with busy schedules[5]. The Infinite Actuary also supports a wider range of exams, so if you plan to tackle multiple actuarial tests, it might streamline your prep across subjects. However, some users find that TIA’s interface isn’t as polished as Coaching Actuaries and that the depth of explanations can vary.

Now, how do you decide which one suits you best? Think about your learning style and your schedule. For example, if you’re a self-motivated reader who thrives on structured textbooks and extensive problem sets, ASM might be your go-to. If you learn better by watching videos, interacting with quizzes, and want personalized guidance, Coaching Actuaries probably fits the bill. And if you need flexibility, value free resources, or want mobile study options, The Infinite Actuary is worth exploring.

Let’s talk practical tips to get the most out of whichever material you choose. One mistake I see is cramming or trying to rush through content without enough practice. The general recommendation for Exam P is to dedicate around 300 hours of study time, spread over three months—think about blocking out 3-4 hours daily[2]. Create a consistent study schedule and stick to it religiously. Use reminders or planner apps to keep yourself on track, and don’t skip the review sessions.

Practice is your best friend. It’s not enough to read or watch videos; you need to solve problems actively. Try to simulate exam conditions by timing yourself during practice exams. This builds not only your problem-solving skills but also your test-taking stamina and time management. As you practice, note down questions or topics you struggle with and revisit those sections in your study guide or video lessons.

Another tip: join an online study group or forum. Sharing insights and challenges with peers can deepen your understanding and keep motivation high. Plus, you might pick up handy shortcuts or problem-solving techniques from others who have been through the grind.

Don’t forget to take care of yourself during this process. It’s tempting to push hard and neglect sleep or nutrition, but your brain works best when it’s well-rested and fueled. Regular breaks, exercise, and stress-management activities like meditation can make a surprising difference in your focus and retention.

A quick reality check—passing actuarial exams is tough, but with the right study materials and a disciplined approach, it’s absolutely doable. Candidates who invest in quality resources like ASM, Coaching Actuaries, or The Infinite Actuary tend to report higher pass rates and less stress. For example, Coaching Actuaries has supported over 120,000 students, many of whom credit their success to its adaptive learning platform[4].

In summary, maximizing your actuarial exam success boils down to choosing study materials that fit your style, dedicating consistent study time, and committing to thorough practice. Whether you lean towards ASM’s in-depth manuals and GOAL platform, Coaching Actuaries’ interactive videos and personalized schedules, or The Infinite Actuary’s accessible courses and mobile-friendly tools, you’ll find a path that works. Remember, it’s about smart preparation, not just hard work—focus on understanding the concepts, practicing under exam conditions, and maintaining your well-being. With these strategies, you’ll walk into your exam confident and ready to pass.