How Long To Study For CompTIA A+
Studying and taking an exam is always stressful, no matter what level of difficulty the exam is. This refers to the CompTIA A+ exam as well, and it takes a lot of studying, experience, and practice to pass it. However, how long is the preparation process for CompTIA A+?
The length of the study and preparation period for the CompTIA A+ exam depends on the capability and prior knowledge of the candidate. Most candidates need from 10 to 12 weeks of studying to prepare properly for the exam. However, those who already have some experience might need less time.
In this article, I will explain the preparation time for the CompTIA A+ certification, i.e. what is required for passing the exam successfully. I will also discuss the objectives that this exam covers, and how long you need to study to be properly prepared. Once you understand the requirements and everything that the certification covers, you will know exactly how long it will take you to get ready for it.
What Is The CompTIA A+ Certification?
If you are thinking about getting into the IT field, then CompTIA A+ is the perfect starting point. This certification is considered a stepping stone for the IT industry since it provides the fundamentals of different operating systems and devices. Once a candidate obtains the certificate, it validates that they have the validated skills for working in the IT sectors.
CompTIA A+ is entry-level, meaning that applicants learn how to solve and troubleshoot different kinds of issues. It is globally recognized by employers and companies, therefore once you get certified you will qualify for a job and start your career path in the IT industry.
However, this is an entry-level which means that this is not the final point. The certification enables you to gain more independence and to see how it may take you further. You can get a job as a help desk technician or a technical support specialist, gain more experience, and then decide to continue your improvement further.
The most important thing is to start from somewhere. Once you do that, you will achieve more skills, and you will become more experienced. That way you will figure out what you would like to do next, and get your career path expanding to the next level.
The CompTIA A+ certification is a foundation for different areas in IT. For example, you may further pursue a career in cybersecurity, IT support, cloud computing, network security, or software and web development. You have many opportunities, and it is up to you to choose which road to take.
CompTIA A+ Exam Format
To pass the exam, all candidates are required to pass two parts of the exam – Core 1 (220-1001) and Core 2 (220-1002). Each part consists of approximately 90 questions which include multiple-choice types of questions, drag-and-drop activities, and items based on performance.
Based on your readiness, you might find the exam easy or difficult. However, you need to remember that even if you have experience, you need to study and practice. It is a fundamental exam, meaning that it also includes theoretical concepts and methods that you must know.
One more fact that needs to be pointed out is that CompTIA A+ is vendor-neutral certification. This means that your obtained skills can be used by any vendor, not only a specific one, like Apple, Cisco, or Microsoft. In other words, the CompTIA A+ opens up more opportunities and you can choose which one is more convenient for you.
CompTIA A+ Objectives
The CompTIA A+ certification does not have any prerequisites, but it is recommended that candidates have at least 9 to 12 months of experience. If you possess some kind of experience in the field, the preparation process and the exam itself would be easier for you.
When it comes to the objectives of the exam, CompTIA A+ covers the following topics:
- Configuration of operating systems, such as Microsoft, Mac, Chrome OS, Linux, Android, and iOS
- Engagement in troubleshooting and solving issues, while implementing the best practices
- Support of basic IT network and infrastructure
- Demonstration of basic skills in IT security
- Configuration of different devices, such as PC and mobile hardware
- Implementation of basic data backup and recovery techniques
Once you cover these objectives, you can always improve them and add additional skills to your resume. These topics cover the fundamentals, and they enable you to learn more and grow in your career.
How Long Do You Have To Study For The Exam?
The length of the preparation period and the difficulty of the exam mostly depend on the candidate. In other words, you can measure the time and the difficulty by your own readiness to take an exam, your prior knowledge, and the time you need to prepare properly.
For instance, if you are already involved in the IT field in some way, that means you have some experience. That means that you might be able to prepare for the exam in eight weeks. However, again it depends on what kind of experience you have.
Furthermore, the time planned for studying can also be a major factor. For example, some people learn fast and have more free time, while others do not, therefore they need more time.
So, the first thing you need to do in this situation is familiarizing yourself with the objectives of CompTIA A+. Once you do that, you will know what you already know and what needs to be learned. Then you can make a good plan and get the exact time you will need for preparation for the exam.
Once you make the plan, be sure to stick to it and follow the timetables. A good discipline plays a crucial role in your CompTIA A+ journey. Remember that this exam is your starting point to a possible great career, so stick to wise decisions.
As you could see, the exact time for preparation for the CompTIA A+ exam cannot be measured. It mostly depends on you and your skills and readiness. When you get every little information about the exam, you will know how much time you will need for it.
