< CompTIA A+ Certified In 3 Weeks: A Slightly Unconventional Method >
Why CompTIA?
The decision to go for the A+ certification came from my desire to build an efficient understanding of IT fundamentals. As someone who jumped into the world of IT certifications with the Security+ under my belt, I realized that there were still many areas of basic IT knowledge I needed to master. The A+ certification presented the perfect opportunity to do just that.
A Quick Note Before Going Into My Method
Before diving further, I want to highlight that the approach I took to studying for the CompTIA A+ exams was intense and tailored to my specific situation, learning style, and tight timeline. Warning: This is just what worked for me. If you’re balancing other commitments or don’t have as much time to dedicate to studying, I highly recommend scaling this method down to fit your schedule and lifestyle. It’s crucial to find a balance that works for you, ensuring you’re not overwhelmed while still making consistent progress
My Study Method: A Dive into Practice Questions
Ditching traditional study methods, I chose a rigorous science-based regimen of practice method using a “Cram early” technique. I tackled around 1,700 flashcards and took 10 practice tests in only a few weeks, drawing from resources like Jason Dion, Professor Messer, and CertMaster. This approach was fueled by the belief that the best way to learn is by doing, a swim or drown approach. By immersing myself in practice questions, I aimed to build a comprehensive understanding of the A+ content.
I followed a structured strategy: beginning with a deep dive into around 700 Core 1 flashcards, supplementing with Professor Messer’s videos for clarification, and then moving on to practice exams to test my knowledge. My goal was to score at least 70-75% on these tests before considering myself ready for the exam. This cycle of study, test, and review was repeated for Core 2, ensuring a balanced preparation for both components of the A+ certification.
The Science Behind the Strategy
The rationale behind my ‘cram early, review often’ approach lies in the effectiveness of reinforcing knowledge through frequent review. By initially cramming a wide array of information, I created a broad foundation that made subsequent reviews more efficient. This method capitalizes on the cognitive principle that familiarity with material significantly enhances the ability to learn and retain information.
Diverse Resources: The Key to Comprehensive Understanding
One key aspect of my study approach was not limiting myself to a single source of information. Whenever I encountered difficulties understanding a concept through one educator, I would seek alternative explanations. This flexibility in learning sources was instrumental in addressing my learning needs from multiple angles.
Results and Reflections
This intensive study strategy paid off, allowing me to pass both A+ exams within three weeks of beginning my study journey. The experience was a testament to the power of persistence, strategic study, and the willingness to immerse oneself in the material.
For those embarking on their A+ certification journey, my advice is clear: embrace the practice, diversify your study resources, and commit to daily engagement with the material. While my approach may seem daunting, it’s a testament to how targeted preparation and resilience can lead to success.
Looking Ahead
Although this certification has not yet impacted my career—given that I’m currently focused on completing my bachelor’s degree in six months at WGU—it’s a significant step toward my long-term goal in the IT field. The knowledge and skills gained through achieving the A+ certification are foundational stones upon which I plan to build a successful IT career.
In conclusion, my journey to the CompTIA A+ certification was unconventional yet highly effective. It demonstrates that with the right strategy, determination, and resources, achieving certification success is not only possible but can be done on an accelerated timeline.
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