Mastering the CompTIA A+ 220-901 Exam with Flashcards


Are you looking to establish yourself in the field of technology as an IT professional? CompTIA A+ 220-901 is one of the most recognized certifications in the IT field. 

This certification evaluates your knowledge in virtualization, assembling basic components, and installing and configuring PCs and software.

In the following blog, we will understand the CompTIA A+ 220-901 exam and the importance of study flashcards to assist us in our preparation. 

Understanding the CompTIA A+ 220-901 Exam

The CompTIA A+ 220-901 exam evaluates whether the candidate has the basic knowledge and skills to assemble basic components according to customer needs, understand the fundamentals of networking and security, apply troubleshooting skills, and provide appropriate customer support.

1. Exam format and structure

This is an exam that consists of 90 multiple-choice questions, drag-and-drop questions, and performance-based questions.

It’s recommended to have 9 to 12 months of practical experience in the field. The exam has a duration of 90 minutes (1 hour and 30 minutes), and you need a score of 675 (on a scale of 900).

2. Exam cost and renewal fees

The CompTIA A+ exam has a different cost for each country. In the United States, it’s $246. To renew your certification, you must pay the continuing education fees before submitting the activities and receiving your CEUs. The annual CE fee is $25, and for a 3-year period, it’s $75.

3. Key topics covered in the exam

  1. 1

    Hardware 25%

    Understanding and configuring BIOS/UEFI tools on a PC, understanding motherboard components and their properties, comprehending the differences between types of RAM, installing various types of CPUs, and performing device maintenance.

  2. 2

    Networking 20%

    Identifying types of connections and cables, characteristics of cables and connectors, properties of TCP/IP, installing and configuring SOHO wireless/wired routers, and applications.

  3. 3

    Mobile Devices 15%

    Installing and configuring components of laptops, understanding the features of different types of mobile devices, accessories, and functions.

  4. 4

    Hardware & Network Troubleshooting 29%

    Understanding issues related to RAM, CPU, troubleshooting and identifying problems with hard drives and RAID arrays, common video and projector issues, troubleshooting wired and wireless network problems.

  5. 5

    Virtualization and Cloud Computing 11% 

    Understanding virtualization tools and services, comprehending the infrastructure of cloud-hosted services, configuring and managing cloud resources.

How Flashcards Can Help You Pass the Exam

Implementing study techniques such as flashcards can help you pass your exam. It’s one of the most effective study techniques for learning as it is motivating and makes you more actively engaged in the learning process.

1. Benefits of using flashcards for exam preparation 

  • Active Memory

    They improve memory performance and keep your mind active through the repetition of flashcards. When you see one, you will immediately recall the answer thanks to active recall.

  • Usable in Various Places

    You can use your flashcards anywhere and anytime, and you can create them digitally to always have them on your phone and learn wherever and whenever.

  • Motivation and Confidence

    Being an active learning method, you will be motivated to learn and build the confidence you need as a foundation for your exam knowledge.

  • Retention

    They enhance learning and retention through constant repetitive exposure to information on the flashcards.

2. Tips for using flashcards effectively

  • Color-Coded Organization

    Associate each exam topic with a specific color to enhance information retention.

  • Daily Practice

    Utilize flashcards on a daily basis for effective learning and improved information retention.

  • Personalized Approach

    Customize flashcards with images, diagrams, or colors to align with your individual learning process.

  • Concise Summaries

    Condense information and focus on essential questions to prevent overwhelming yourself with excessive content.

Creating Effective CompTIA A+ 220-901 Flashcards

1. Understanding the learning objectives of the exam

  • Exam Blueprint

    Familiarize yourself with the official exam blueprint provided by CompTIA. It outlines the topics and subtopics that will be covered in the exam.

  • Learning Objectives

    Break down the exam blueprint into specific learning objectives. These objectives will serve as the foundation for creating your flashcards.

  • Prioritize Important Concepts

    Identify the key concepts and areas that are emphasized in the exam. Focus on understanding and memorizing these topics to ensure a solid foundation of knowledge.

2. Selecting the right content for your flashcards

  • Key Definitions and Terminology

     Include important definitions, acronyms, and technical terms relevant to the exam objectives. These will help you grasp the foundational concepts and vocabulary.

  • Troubleshooting Procedures

    Highlight common troubleshooting steps and procedures for different hardware and software issues. Flashcards can be used to reinforce your understanding of these procedures.

  • Real-World Scenarios

    Develop flashcards that present realistic scenarios related to the exam objectives. These can help you apply your knowledge and assess your problem-solving skills.

3. Formatting your flashcards for maximum effectiveness

  • Determine your retention process

    Determine if you prefer keywords, questions with more information, or longer concepts. Then, create your study flashcards in a way that is easier for you to understand. 

  • Recommendation for questions

    Place the questions on the front side of the study card and the answers on the back side. This way, if you make a mistake, you'll have a way to assess which areas you need to reinforce.

  • Assign colors

    Create your study flashcards using a different color for each domain of the exam. This will help you quickly identify the topic covered on each flashcard and is a great technique for retaining information.

Examples of Effective CompTIA A+ 220-901 Flashcards

Sample flashcards for key topics covered in the exam

To give you an idea of the format and the type of questions you can include on your study cards, here are some examples:

Quizlet

Here is an example of study cards to help you prepare for your exam. All the questions have their answers on the back of the card, and there are a total of 72 questions. 

Brainscape

The study cards consist of sample questions for the CompTIA A+ 220-901 exam. They include multiple-choice options, and the answers are provided on one side of the card. 

How to Make the Most of Your Flashcard Study Sessions

  • Establishing a study routine

    Establishing a study schedule is the key to success in your exam. Make sure to practice and review with your study flashcards for at least 20-25 minutes daily.

  • Incorporating other study methods

    By incorporating different study methods such as summaries, diagrams, and practical exercises, you can build a solid foundation of knowledge.

  • Tracking your progress and identifying areas for improvement

    Regularly assess your knowledge and progress. You can use study flashcards or practice exams for this purpose. When you answer incorrectly, mark that area for further reinforcement.

Best Practices for Flashcard Review and Retention

  • Review Daily for Active Memory

    Review your study flashcards daily to keep your memory active and ensure information retention. 

  • Analyze and Explain

    One of the most common mistakes is simply memorizing the flashcards. Instead, analyze and explain each flashcard's answer in your own words. 

  • Visual Aids for Memory

    Depending on the question, include images or symbols that will aid in long-term memory. 

  • Avoid Information Overload

    Avoid including too much information on each flashcard, as this can impede learning and retention. Use keywords.

  • Divide and Conquer

    Divide your schedule and days according to each domain of the exam. This will make learning less complex and maximize your retention.

Additional Resources for CompTIA A+ 220-901 Exam Preparation

You can utilize various resources for your preparation in addition to study flashcards. All of these resources will assist you in building a solid foundation for success in the actual exam.

1. Study materials and documentation

Scribd | CompTIA A+ 220-901

This document consists of a total of 25 pages, including all the objectives of the CompTIA A+ 220-901 exam and a comprehensive description of it.

CompTIA A+ | CompTIA A+ Certification Exam Core 1 Objectives (220-1101)

You will understand the objectives and topics covered in the exam. Exam structure and domains will help you grasp what you need to learn for your preparation.

2. Best Online Course providers

Udemy | CompTIA A+ 220-901 Certification Prep Course

The course includes 10 hours of on-demand video, mobile access, and a certification upon completion. You will learn the basic fundamentals of installation, networking, security, and troubleshooting. 

Coursera | CompTIA Exam Prep

With this 18 hours course, you will learn tricks, tips, the exam process, and understand basic concepts such as hardware, software, computer troubleshooting, and technical support. 

3. Tools for practice exams and simulations

QuickStart | Certification Practice Test Sample Questions for CompTIA A+ (220-1001)

This practice exam features 24 updated questions from the CompTIA A+ exam, where you can view the results and assess your strengths and weaknesses to reinforce them.

Crucial Exams | CompTIA A+ 220-901 Practice Tests

Crucial Exams offers you 3 study materials, practice questions, a practice exam, and study flashcards that will assist you in your preparation for the actual exam.

4. Online communities and forums

Quora | What are some helpful tips to help me pass the CompTIA A+ 220-901?

On Quora, you can ask questions, post your doubts, and people who are in the process of obtaining their certification or already have it can respond to you and clarify them.

Reddit | Passed A+ 220-901 Today!

You can see the resources that other people used to obtain their certification and get advice for your success.

5. Helpful guides and books to read

Amazon | CompTIA A+ Complete Study Guide: Exams 220-901 and 220-902

This guide covers 100% of the exam, including objectives, recent practices, and fundamental aspects. It provides you with four practice exams, a glossary of terms, and study cards.

Oreilly | CompTIA A+ 220-901 and 220-902 Cert Guide, Academic Edition

This book covers all the important aspects, taking and explaining each exam topic from scratch. It offers tips for real exam preparation and laboratory practices.

6. Easy to followed Youtube tutorials

Professor Messer | How to Pass your 220-1101 and 220-1102 A+ Exams - CompTIA A+ 220-1101

In this video tutorial, you will learn the fundamentals of the exam, such as mobile device hardware, common connections, types of connections and cables, and hardware troubleshooting.

My CS | CompTIA A+ Full Video Course for Beginners

In this video tutorial, you will learn everything you need to know to understand the CompTIA A+ certification. It has a duration of 4 hours.

Conclusion

With the CompTIA A+ 220-901 certification, you will be able to start in the field as an IT professional. Currently, obtaining this certification validates your knowledge and skills, giving you an advantage over other applicants when applying for an IT job.

By using study flashcards and other provided resources such as courses, practice exams, and tips, you can acquire a strong foundation of knowledge to succeed when taking the actual exam.

FAQ

Is CompTIA A+ certification worth it?

Yes, it's worth getting your certification if you want to start or strengthen your career as an IT professional.

Why is the 220-901 exam hard?

It can be challenging if you don't have prior knowledge or experience. However, if you are well-prepared, the exam won't be difficult.

How can I make sure I am ready for the exam?

Take practice tests to assess your knowledge level.

How long is the 220-901 certification valid?

The 220-901 certification is valid for 3 years.

How much can you earn with a CompTIA A+ 220-901 certification?

You can earn anywhere from $40,000 to $140,000, depending on the position and the country you are in.

About the author

Youssef

Youssef is a Senior Cloud Consultant & Founder of ITCertificate.org

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