When I started prepping for the CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1201) exam, I was thrilled to find free resources that didn’t skimp on quality. As someone who passed with zero IT background, I know how crucial practice tests are to nail this exam. In this post, I’ll share where to find a Free CompTIA A+ Core 1 practice test, including the first three free CompTIA A+ practice tests in SkilltestPro’s Core 1 section and video-based Free CompTIA A+ practice test on Tech Wolf’s YouTube channel. Let’s dive into how these can help you ace the exam without breaking the bank.
What is CompTIA A+ Core 1?
CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1201) is one of two exams needed for the CompTIA A+ certification, a must-have for entry-level IT jobs. It covers hardware, networking, mobile devices, troubleshooting, and virtualization through up to 90 questions (multiple-choice and performance-based) in 90 minutes. You need a score of 675 out of 900 to pass. As a beginner, I leaned heavily on free resources to build confidence, and they made all the difference.
Why Practice Tests Are Key
Practice tests were my secret weapon. They mimic the exam’s format—multiple-choice questions like “Which port is used for HTTPS?” and performance-based tasks like configuring a network. They also show you weak spots and get you used to the time pressure. Best of all, you don’t need to spend a fortune to access solid ones. Here’s where to find free CompTIA A+ Core 1 practice tests.
Free Practice Test Resources
1. SkilltestPro’s Free Practice Tests
SkilltestPro offers the first three practice tests for CompTIA A+ Core 1 completely free in their Core 1 section. These tests are gold—they include realistic multiple-choice and performance-based questions that match the exam’s vibe. When I took them, the detailed explanations helped me understand why I got questions wrong, especially on tricky topics like networking protocols. I’d take one test, review my mistakes, and focus my study on those areas. You can access these free tests directly at SkilltestPro’s CompTIA A+ practice test page—no signup or payment needed for the first three.
2. Tech Wolf’s Free YouTube Practice Videos
Tech Wolf’s YouTube channel is packed with free videos that walk through free CompTIA A+ Core 1 practice questions and concepts. Their videos cover topics like troubleshooting hardware or setting up Wi-Fi, often with sample questions you can test yourself on. I loved watching these during breaks because Tech Wolf explains things in a clear, beginner-friendly way. For example, their video on network ports helped me nail questions about TCP/IP. Just search their channel for “CompTIA A+ Core 1” to find relevant playlists—all free, no strings attached.
How to Use These Free Resources
Here’s how I made the most of these free tools to pass:
- Start with SkilltestPro: Take the first free practice test on SkilltestPro to gauge your baseline. Review the explanations for every question, even the ones you get right. I did one test a week to track progress.
- Supplement with Tech Wolf: Watch Tech Wolf’s videos on topics you’re weak in, like virtualization or cable types. Pause during their practice questions to answer before they reveal the solution.
- Mix with Study: Pair these with the official CompTIA A+ Core 1 objectives (find them online) to ensure you cover all domains—hardware, networking, mobile devices, troubleshooting, and virtualization.
- Practice Hands-On: Tinker with a computer’s settings or use free tools like VirtualBox to simulate hardware setups. This helped me with performance-based questions.
- Track Your Scores: Aim for 80% or higher on SkilltestPro’s tests before booking the exam. I hit this after about 8 weeks of prep.
Why Free Resources Work
SkilltestPro’s free tests gave me a real taste of the exam’s format, especially the performance-based questions, which were tricky at first. Tech Wolf’s videos made complex topics like cloud computing feel simple and even fun. Together, they saved me money while building the skills I needed to pass. I studied for about 8–10 weeks, an hour a day, and felt ready thanks to these resources.
Tips to Maximize Your Prep
- Focus on Weaknesses: My first SkilltestPro test showed I was shaky on networking, so I watched Tech Wolf’s networking videos and studied those objectives more.
- Simulate Exam Conditions: Take SkilltestPro’s tests in a quiet space with a timer to mimic the 90-minute exam.
- Review Regularly: I kept a notebook for tricky terms like “DHCP” or “RAID” and reviewed them daily.
- Stay Consistent: Even 30 minutes a day with these free resources adds up. I studied 5–6 days a week to keep momentum.
Why Passing Core 1 Matters
Passing CompTIA A+ Core 1 opens doors to IT jobs like help desk or field technician. For me, it was a confidence boost that proved I could handle tech challenges. Using free resources like SkilltestPro’s practice tests and Tech Wolf’s YouTube videos made prep affordable and effective.
Ready to ace CompTIA A+ Core 1? Start with the first three free CompTIA A+ practice test on SkilltestPro and check out Tech Wolf’s YouTube channel for engaging practice videos. Keep at it, and you’ll be exam-ready in no time!