Maximum Effective Preparation

Get the most out of studying up for your next certification exam

There are many different ways to prepare for a certification exam. Different people prefer different methods. Let’s consider a handful of the most common approaches. Most people will focus on at least one of these techniques, and many will combine two or more:

• Books and study guides

• Instructor-led training classes

• Self-directed web-based courseware

• Workplace training

• Learn by doing (the sink-or-swim approach)

• Product documentation (the read-the-manual approach)

• Peer study groups

• MOOCs or online university courses

• Take the test and plan for a retake

In the world of IT certification, in most cases, the test taker must pass a high-stakes exam, meaning the test is either proctored or observed. There are also performance-based exams where students submit their work, which is then reviewed by a panel with a set of criteria to judge by. We’ll go in-depth on the former and touch upon the latter towards the end of this article.

Associate- or entry-level exams

At the heart of the matter is passing the exam, and it is important to understand the nature and composition of the exam being attempted. If there is an entry-level exam where no experience is necessary, then taking the recommended training or studying a supporting book should be quite enough to pass. In fact, most associate-level exams are designed in this way and offer a great starting point for a new career path.

Passing this type of exam shows an ability to comprehend and learn, which is something most employers look for: potential for growth is always enticing. For the sponsoring company or association that is offering the certification, associate-level exams can be a great indication of the pipeline or talent pool available, an indicator of the health of the technology, software, or product the exam is tied to.