Taking a certification exam can be daunting, even to industry professionals. In addition to having a thorough understanding of the body of knowledge covered in the exam, it is essential that you are equipped with strategies for exam preparation and testing.
The following Tips & Tricks include concepts, strategies and general methods that can be used before and during the exam. These tips are based on the combined certification testing experience of Global Networks Academy students and instructors. Pay attention to these test-taking Tips & Tricks and you will be able to sit for your exam with cool confidence, elegance and grace.
Test Prep Strategies
1. Take as many sample tests as you can.
Sample tests are often very similar to the actual exam. In fact, some questions found on sample tests are almost identical but for a few words. Taking sample tests will make you very comfortable with the kinds of the questions that you will see on the exam so that nothing comes as a shock.
Free sample tests for CompTIA exams can be found at TestOut.com, ExamCompass.com, and KaplanITTraining.com.
2. Replicate the testing environment.
When taking practice tests, try to replicate an actual testing environment as much as possible. If you’d like to see what an actual Pearson Vue testing center looks like, feel free to visit the Global Networks Academy of Technology’s Columbia location (6460 Dobbin Rd. Suite A. Columbia, MD 21045).
When studying, simulate the actual test-taking experience by attempting to take a full 90 question practice exam in one sitting. Stop yourself at 90 minutes. Make sure that your desk is cleared of any papers, notes, food/drink, your phone or anything else that would not be permitted in a real testing center.
3. Know your strengths and weaknesses
Be aware of the subject areas that you know well and those that you do not. When assessing your results from practice tests, pay close attention to domains in which you scored poorly. This will give you a good idea of where you need to spend your time as you continue to study.
4. Use positive self-talk and imagery.
Positive self-talk helps build inner confidence in success. Replace “This exam is so hard!” with “I am knowledgeable enough in this subject to pass even very complex industry certifications.” Come up with as many answers as possible to the following question: Why am I confident that I will pass my CompTIA Security+ exam?
Imagine ahead of time what it will look like when you see the words “PASS” on the testing computer screen. What will it look like? How will you feel in that moment? Our minds have a way of making our day-dream visions reality.
Remember that you will never truly be completely ready to sit for the exam. Great can be the enemy of good enough. When you are consistently scoring 85-90% on your practice exams, it’s time to put your fears aside and register for the exam.