About the Exam
The AWS Professional exams are typically structured into multiple-choice and multiple-response questions, proctored at testing centers or online.
The most challenging and unexpected aspect for me was the complexity and depth of the questions. They are designed to test your practical knowledge and ability to build and implement solutions effectively. However, the good thing is the practice tests are similar to the actual exam, which helped me get familiar with the format and types of questions that were on the exam.
Ace the Exam with These Five Steps
Here is a list of my obtained certificates:
- AWS Certified Developer – Associate (April '23)
- AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate (May '23)
- GCP Professional Cloud Architect (July '23)
- AWS Certified DevOps Engineer – Professional (September '23)
Please note that you do not need to go through all these exams. Simply aim directly for the AWS Pro exam if that is your goal.
These are the steps I took to obtain the AWS Pro Certification:
1. Set a Clear Goal
Use the SMART approach (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound). Precisely define what you want to achieve, such as obtaining a specific certification by a certain date. Keep in mind the study duration can vary depending on your starting knowledge and experience. One month should be enough for someone familiar with AWS, while a newbie might need two months. In any case, this clarity helps maintain focus and motivation, especially if you plan to apply for multiple certifications!
2. Choose Appropriate Resources
Many IT specialists have already passed these exams. Use resources like examtopics.com for highly realistic mock tests. Additionally, get a fresh course from platforms like Udemy. I highly recommend courses by Stephane Maarek– they are excellent and provide comprehensive coverage of the topics. For those with a tight budget, the official AWS website offers a free course.
3. Stick to the Schedule and Keep it Simple
Studying becomes easier with a consistent routine. I found short, daily learning sessions more effective than irregular, long cramming sessions. Two to four hours a day was optimal for me. Break down study material into smaller and manageable sections you can review regularly.
4. Practice with Real-World Scenarios and Seek Feedback
Exam questions are more technical and practical, so practice solving real-world problems. Engage in projects or simulations that mimic exam scenarios to gain hands-on experience.
Collaborate with mentors or peers for feedback to identify areas for improvement and adjust your study plan. Feedback offers new perspectives and insights. For instance, in the DevOps Mentorship program at DataArt, my mentor, Eugene Yarovoy, was crucial; he highlighted my gaps and advised me on achieving the AWS Pro Certification.
5. Aim for Consistent Results During Practice
The strategy I applied was to regularly take the ExamTopics practice tests until I was able to score at least 80% every time. Once I achieved this consistency, I knew I was ready for the exam.
Conclusion
Achieving a certification can be challenging, but it’s entirely possible with the right approach. The formula is simple:
Time + Effort + Plan = Your Goal
Remember, with dedication and the right strategy, you can excel in your career and attain the certifications that will open new doors of opportunity.
