01 - How to Pass Your 220-1201 and 220-1202 A+ Exams - CompTIA A+ 220-1201 - 0.1

Introduction to CompTIA A+ Certification Training

  • Welcome and overview of Professor Messer's training course for CompTIA A+ 220-801 and 220-802 exams.

  • Objective: Teach students everything needed to pass both exams and earn A+ certification.

Importance of CompTIA A+ Certification

  • CompTIA is one of the largest organizations for IT certifications globally.

  • A+ certification is a common requirement for entry-level IT positions.

  • Certification can facilitate career advancement in the IT field.

  • A+ course content includes:

    • Hardware

    • Networking

    • Security

    • Operating systems

  • A+ is beneficial even for those not pursuing certification to understand technology better.

Overview of CompTIA Organization

  • CompTIA: Computing Technology Industry Association.

    • Provides entry-level certifications across various IT sectors (networking, security, data analysis, AI).

  • Historically, separate certifications existed for every computer manufacturer; CompTIA consolidated these.

  • Certifications are recognized regardless of geographic location.

  • Global reach: Available in over 100 countries, exams in multiple languages.

Instructor Background

  • Professor Messer's extensive IT experience includes:

    • Supercomputer operations

    • Server and network administration

    • Corporate training

    • Software engineering

    • Network analysis

    • Cybersecurity

  • Author of numerous books on various IT subjects and holds multiple certifications.

Training Course Structure

  • Course focus: Specific version of A+ certification (220-801 and 220-802).

  • Exam release date: March 25, 2025.

  • Training divided into bite-sized topics for easier consumption.

  • Course covers all topics from official CompTIA exam objectives without paywalls.

Exam Details

A+ Certification Exam Structure

  • Two exams required for certification:

    1. Core 1 (220-801) - covers hardware and networking topics.

    2. Core 2 (220-802) - focuses on operating systems, security, software troubleshooting, and operational procedures.

  • Core 2 exam specifics:

    • Duration: 90 minutes

    • Maximum questions: 90

    • Passing Score: 700/900

  • Exams are generally available for approximately three and a half years until retired.

  • Registration and order of passing exams:

    • No specific order required (Core 1 or Core 2 first).

    • Both exams must be passed before their retirement date, around September 2028.

Format of Exams

  • Primarily multiple-choice questions.

  • Some performance-based questions:

    • Fill-in-the-blank

    • Command prompt scenarios

    • Drag-and-drop tasks

    • Matching questions

  • Performance-based questions typically appear at the beginning of the exam.

  • Importance of familiarity with official exam objectives to succeed.

Study Strategy

  • Recommended study strategy acronym: WRAP.

    • W: Watch the video course to understand all topics.

    • R: Read a good book for detailed information.

    • A: Apply knowledge through labs (hands-on practice).

    • P: Practice with exams written in similar style as CompTIA.

  • Official CompTIA exam objectives:

    • Use these as a checklist to verify readiness.

    • Available on CompTIA's website or Professor Messer's site.

Resources for Success

  • Available study materials include:

    • Course notes

    • Practice exams

  • Video index matches the objective numbers from official CompTIA materials for easy navigation.

Test Preparation Tips

  • Familiarize yourself with testing locations and their resources.

  • Possibility of taking the exam at home under specific conditions.

  • Recommendations for test day:

    • Arrive early to study or check in.

    • Report any distractions or room temperature issues promptly.

  • Important reminders during the exam:

    • Monitor remaining time on the countdown clock.

    • Mark questions for review later.

    • Thoroughly check answers before submission.

Post-Exam Process

  • Immediate feedback on the exam results.

  • Summary report available for performance review.

Conclusion and Additional Resources

  • Access entire A+ training course online for free at ProfessorMesser.com.

  • Other resources:

    • Live Q&A study groups each month for both Core 1 and Core 2.

    • Discord server for real-time student interaction and support.

  • Importance of utilizing various learning methods to ensure thorough preparation.

  • Encouragement to pursue and obtain A+ certification.

Final Thoughts

  • Thank you for engaging with the training course. Good luck on your certification journey!