When I decided to go for the CompTIA A+ certification, I was overwhelmed by the question, “What’s the best way to prepare for this?” As someone who started with no IT background and passed both Core 1 and Core 2, I learned that a clear, focused plan makes all the difference. In this post, I’ll share the best way to prepare for the CompTIA A+ exam, based on my experience, with practical steps to ace Core 1 (220-1201) and Core 2 (220-1202). I’ll also point you to awesome free resources like SkilltestPro for practice tests and Tech Wolf’s YouTube channel for videos that helped me succeed.
What is the CompTIA A+ Exam?
CompTIA A+ is a leading certification for entry-level IT pros, requiring two exams: Core 1 (220-1201) and Core 2 (220-1202). Core 1 covers hardware, networking, and troubleshooting, while Core 2 focuses on software, security, and operational procedures. Each exam has up to 90 questions (multiple-choice and performance-based) in 90 minutes, with passing scores of 675 (Core 1) and 700 (Core 2) out of 900. As a beginner, I found a structured prep approach was key to passing. Here’s how to do it.
The Best Way to Prepare for CompTIA A+
Here’s the step-by-step plan I used to pass both exams:
1. Understand the Exam Objectives
Start by downloading the official CompTIA A+ exam objectives for Core 1 and Core 2 (available at SkilltestPro’s resource page). These list exactly what’s tested, like configuring routers (Core 1) or securing systems (Core 2). I used them as a checklist to stay focused.
2. Create a Study Schedule
Plan for 8–12 weeks per exam, 1–2 hours daily, if you’re new to IT. If you have tech experience, 6–8 weeks may suffice. I studied Core 1 for 10 weeks, then Core 2 for 8, splitting my time like this:
- Core 1: Hardware (3 weeks), networking/virtualization (3 weeks), troubleshooting (3 weeks), review (1 week).
- Core 2: Operating systems (3 weeks), security/procedures (3 weeks), software troubleshooting (2 weeks), review (1 week). Study 5–6 days a week to avoid burnout.
3. Use Diverse Study Resources
Mix up your learning to keep it engaging:
- Videos: Tech Wolf’s YouTube channel has clear, beginner-friendly CompTIA A+ practice test videos on hardware, networking, Windows, and security. I watched these during meals to make learning fun.
- Study Guides: Pair a concise guide (online or book) with the objectives for structure.
- Flashcards: I created digital flashcards for terms like “TCP/IP” (Core 1) or “phishing” (Core 2) to drill vocab daily.
4. Get Hands-On Experience
Practice real-world tasks to prep for performance-based questions. I tinkered with:
- Core 1: Swapped laptop RAM, configured a home router, and set up virtual machines in VirtualBox.
- Core 2: Managed user accounts in Windows, applied security settings, and practiced basic scripting. These made concepts like hardware diagnostics or permissions stick.
5. Take Practice Tests
Practice tests are non-negotiable—they mimic the exam’s multiple-choice and performance-based format. SkilltestPro offers the first three CompTIA A+ Core 1 and Core 2 tests for free, which were a lifesaver. Their questions, like “How do you fix a no-boot issue?” (Core 1) or “What’s a secure password policy?” (Core 2), felt so close to the real exam. I took a test weekly, reviewed explanations, and aimed for 80% before test day.
6. Focus on Weak Areas
After my first SkilltestPro test, I saw I was weak on Core 1’s networking and Core 2’s security. I watched Tech Wolf’s videos on those topics and studied them extra. Use practice test results to prioritize your study—don’t just stick to what you’re good at.
7. Prep for Exam Day
In the final week, ease up on new material and review notes. The night before, I skimmed flashcards and got good sleep. On test day, I arrived early, read questions carefully, and tackled multiple-choice questions before performance-based tasks to save time.
Common Prep Mistakes to Avoid
Here’s what I learned to skip:
- Skipping Hands-On: I initially avoided practical tasks, but they’re key for performance-based questions.
- Rote Memorization: Understanding concepts like “why a PC overheats” beats memorizing answers.
- Ignoring Practice Tests: I thought I could wing it early on—wrong. Tests showed me where I needed work.
Why This Prep Approach Works
This plan worked for me because it balanced structure (objectives, schedule) with flexibility (videos, hands-on). SkilltestPro’s free tests prepped me for the exam’s format, while Tech Wolf’s videos made complex topics like subnetting or encryption clear. I studied 8–10 weeks per exam, an hour daily, and passed both with confidence.
Why Passing A+ is Worth It
Passing CompTIA A+ opens doors to IT roles like help desk or IT support specialist. For me, it was a milestone that proved I could handle tech challenges and landed me my first IT job. A solid prep plan sets you up for success in the exam and beyond.
Ready to prepare for CompTIA A+? Start with Tech Wolf’s YouTube channel for engaging videos and grab the free practice tests on SkilltestPro to lock in your prep. Stay focused, and you’ll be A+ certified in no time!