Okay so I'm a little embarrassed posting this but maybe it'll help someone else. I failed the California DDS written exam in January and again in March. Both times I thought I'd studied enough, watched some YouTube videos, skimmed the DMV handbook. Nope. Failed by like 4 questions each time, which honestly made it worse.
What changed for round three was actually being systematic about it. I found a solid DDS practice test online and made myself do at least 3 full timed simulations a day for two weeks. The thing that surprised me was how different the real question wording is from the handbook — the practice tests really train you to parse that. I also put together a rough study guide focused on right-of-way rules and traffic signs, which were my weakest areas.
Passed with an 87% on my third attempt. If you're prepping now, I'd honestly say exam tips from people who've recently taken it are worth more than any handbook. What are other people using to study? Specifically curious if anyone has resources for the knowledge test beyond just the DMV manual.