Steps I normally follow are.

1. Book the exam first, this gives you a deadline. This is the most daunting task.

2. Check the CCNA/CCNP or the relevant syllabus @ Cisco, make sure you understand the core technologies

3. Read Cisco press books relevant to the specific exam, understand the core technologies.

4. Practice labs, until you understand the basics.

5. Try multiple choice questions, back to 2, when you get stuck with specific topics/ technologies.

6. Try the exam and pass !