For individuals looking to start their journey in the world of IT, CompTIA A+ certification can be a gateway to pursuing their careers. It is a beginner-level certification that lays the foundation for further specialization.
There are certain factors that might affect the time it takes to complete the certification. In this article, we uncover the study techniques, exam resources, and many other details that will help you gain insight into CompTIA A+.
Understanding the Exam Format and Content
The CompTIA A+ certification consists of 2 exams, Core 1, and Core 2. Here is an overview of both the examinations.
Format | Core 1 (220-1001)  | Core 2 (220-1002) |
|---|---|---|
Exam structure | Computer-based MCQs, drag and drop, and performance-based | Computer-based MCQs, drag and drop, and performance-based |
Number of questions | 90-95 | 90-95 |
Time limit | 1 hour 30 minutes (90 minutes) | 1 hour 30 minutes (90 minutes) |
Recommended passing score | 675 (on a scale of 100-900) | 700 (on a scale of 100-900) |
Exam content | Hardware, networking, mobile devices, and cloud computing. | Operating systems, security, software troubleshooting, and operational procedures. |
Overview of the CompTIA A+ Exam Process
To register for the exam, you need to provide the necessary details that are;
Scheduling the exam is the next step. Here is how you should do it.
You should review the exam policies beforehand to understand what lies ahead of you. Arrive early so your check-in process can be done calmly.
How Long It Takes to Prepare for CompTIA A+
Factors That Affect How Long It Takes to Get CompTIA A+
The time it takes for an individual to get CompTIA A+ certification varies due to certain factors such as:
Benefits of CompTIA A+ Certification
Available Study Materials for CompTIA A+
Being well-prepared for the exam is your best bet to pass the certification. Here are some study materials that can make your exam journey easier.
1. Official Study Materials
CompTIA | CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1101) Certification Study Guide
A well-written and structured book that details both cores of the CompTIA A+ exam. The book is very comprehensive, so you get an in-depth overview of the entire syllabus.
CompTIA | CompTIA A+ Certification Training
This training consists of everything that will be on the exam. It is official and endorsed by professionals, making it an excellent resource for studying.
2. Third-party study materials
Amazon | CompTIA A+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide, Ninth Edition (Exams 220-901 & 220-902)
This book contains all the material relevant to both parts of the exam. It is well-detailed, comprehensive, and an excellent resource to prepare for the exam.
Union Test Prep | Free Study Guides for the CompTIA A+ Core Series Exam
This free series are amazing to give you a basic idea on what to expect in the exam. After preparation, you can use flashcards and practice questions to see where you stand.
3. Online study resources
Professor Messer | 220-1001 and 220-1002 A+ Study Resources
These resources focus on providing you with an in-depth overview of the CompTIA A+ examination and what to expect on the exam day.
Udemy | CompTIA A+ (220-1001) Complete Course
This comprehensive Udemy course covers all the necessary topics to prepare you for the CompTIA A+ 220-1001 exam.
Recommended Study Plan for CompTIA A+
Creating a well-structured study plan helps you effectively prepare for the CompTIA A+ certification. Here are some recommendations for a study plan:
Training Options for CompTIA A+
Exam preparation is the primary and only factor that gets you certified. Here are some training options that can get you a CompTIA A+ certification.
1. Classroom training
CompTIA | CompTIA A+ Certification Custom Training
Provides you with a structured learning environment, face-to-face interactions with instructors, and opportunities for group discussions.
2. Self-paced training
University of Arizona | Self-paced Learning for CompTIA A+
With this training option, you set the pace for preparing for your exam. It gives you access to textbooks, study guides, online tutorials, and recorded video lectures.
3. Boot camps
Infosec | CompTIA A+ Training Boot Camp
Boot camps are intensive training programs that help you cover the contents of your exam in a limited period. They include lab exercises and practice exam sessions to increase chances of success.
Pros and Cons of Each Training Option
Each training option might affect you in many ways. With the pros and cons list given below, you can opt for the one that suits you best.
Training option | pros | cons |
|---|---|---|
Classroom training | You can get direct assistance from instructors allowing you to clear up any doubts. | Classes have fixed timings which intercede with busy schedules and travelling to them takes time and money. |
Online training | Allows you to study from anywhere at any time giving you complete freedom. | Without any supervision you can stray off-track and lose motivation. |
Self-paced training | It is a cost-effective method that allows you to give more time to difficult topics and skip topics you have already learned. | Clarifying doubts can be challenging for you as there is no direct instructor. |
Bootcamps | They can help you cover syllabus in a significantly low amount of time with intensive training schedules. | Are costly and require you to commit a lot of time over a short period. |
Recommended Training Option Based on Individual Needs
The suitability of each training option differs from person to person. Now that we have highlighted each one alongside their pros and cons, it is up to you to decide what fits your lifestyle.
Key factors to consider when choosing a training option include your budget, available time, your prior skills and knowledge, and your level of motivation. Base your decision in line with these factors to boost your chance of success.
Recommended Practice Tests for CompTIA A+
1. Official CompTIA practice tests
CompTIA | Free Practice Tests for A+
Sign up to the link given below, enter your details, and select CompTIA A+ to receive official practice tests.
2. Third-party practice tests
Udemy | TOTAL: CompTIA A+ Certification (220-1001)
This course is incredible as it provides authentic practice tests and also prepares you with providing 124 lectures.
3. Online practice resources
ExamCompass| CompTIA A+ Certification Practice Test Questions
This is an additional online resource that can help you gear up for the exam. It’s free to use and also generates score reports.
Understanding the Importance of Practice Tests
Practice tests are essential for testing your knowledge and help to determine the areas that need improvement. Let’s look at what practice tests can do for you:
Recommended Study Techniques for CompTIA A+
By now you might have an idea that passing the exam is not an easy challenge. You need to practice the techniques with the highest rewards. Here is what we recommend;
Post-Exam Steps
Conclusion
CompTIA A+ certification holds significant value for individuals seeking a career in the IT industry. It focuses on technical support skills and is widely recognized by employers, making it a valuable certification for landing entry-level IT jobs.
With the industry's constant evolution, staying updated and pursuing higher-level certifications within the CompTIA pathway can further enhance professional growth and advancement in the IT industry.
