SDS Study Plan: 10-Week Schedule
Week-by-Week Preparation Guide for the NBRC SDS Exam
Week 1–2: Sleep Fundamentals
- •Review sleep architecture (stages, cycles, EEG patterns)
- •Study normal sleep physiology
- •Review circadian rhythm biology
- •Study sleep-wake regulation models
- •Daily study: 2 hours
Week 3–4: Sleep Disorders
- •Study obstructive sleep apnea (diagnosis, treatment, CPAP)
- •Review central sleep apnea and complex apnea
- •Study narcolepsy and hypersomnia
- •Review parasomnias (NREM and REM)
- •Study restless legs syndrome and periodic limb movements
- •Daily study: 2 hours
Week 5–6: Polysomnography Techniques
- •Study PSG recording montage and electrode placement
- •Review AASM scoring rules (sleep stages, respiratory events, arousals)
- •Study MSLT and MWT protocols
- •Review home sleep apnea testing (HSAT)
- •Study PAP titration protocols
- •Daily study: 2–2.5 hours
Week 7–8: Pediatric Sleep & Special Populations
- •Study pediatric sleep disorders
- •Review neonatal sleep patterns
- •Study sleep in elderly populations
- •Review sleep and comorbidities (COPD, CHF, neurological disorders)
- •Daily study: 2 hours
Week 9–10: Review & Practice Exams
- •Take NBRC free SDS practice exam
- •Review SDS Detailed Content Outline — focus on weak areas
- •Study AASM scoring manual
- •Practice interpreting polygraphic tracings
- •Daily study: 2.5 hours
Tips
- •Study the AASM Manual for Sleep Scoring thoroughly
- •Practice reading polygraphic tracings — the exam includes them
- •Focus on CPAP/BiPAP titration protocols
- •Review pediatric sleep disorders (they’re frequently tested)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the SDS exam?
The SDS is a standardized exam. For a comprehensive study guide with practice questions and full-length exams, see our SDS Study Guide.
How should I prepare for the SDS?
Start with a structured study plan, use official exam blueprints, and practice with realistic exam questions. Our SDS Study Guide covers the complete exam content with detailed rationales.
Where can I find SDS practice questions?
Our SDS Study Guide includes full-length practice exams with detailed answer rationales covering every content area on the actual exam.
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Our SDS Study Guide covers every content area with practice questions and detailed answer rationales.