As part of my IT journey, I’m currently preparing for the CompTIA A+ certification, and I wanted to share how I’m studying, what resources I’m using, and what I’ve learned so far.
The A+ is often considered the starting point for anyone entering the IT support world. It covers everything from hardware and networking to operating systems, security, and troubleshooting.
🧠 How I’m Studying:
- Structured Study Plan: I study for about 1–2 hours a day, focusing on one domain at a time (e.g., hardware, networking, etc.).
- Video Courses: Professor Messer’s YouTube series has been a lifesaver for visual explanations.
- Practice Tests: I’m using online practice exams to test my knowledge and get used to the format.
- Flashcards: I use Quizlet to reinforce key terms and concepts like ports, protocols, and OS tools.
📚 My Go-To Resources:
- Google IT Support Certificate (Coursera): This gave me a solid foundation in networking and troubleshooting.
- CompTIA’s Official Study Guide
- Professor Messer’s Free Videos
- ExamCompass and Crucial Exams for Practice Tests
🧩 What I’ve Learned So Far:
- Memorizing is important, but understanding how things connect is even more valuable.
- Time management is everything when balancing certification prep with school and work.
- It’s okay to feel overwhelmed at first—stick with it.
🌟 Advice to Fellow Learners:
If you’re preparing for A+, don’t feel like you need to know everything at once. Break it down. Focus on one topic at a time and build from there. And most of all—keep going.
I’ll post an update when I pass the exam (manifesting it now! 💪). Until then, keep learning and keep pushing forward.
“Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out.”
— Robert Collier
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