As a DevOps aspirant, everyone knows that an AWS certificate is one of the best ways to learn DevOps. But going into the exam without preparation is sure to increase your chances of failure.
I’m thrilled to share my journey of achieving a perfect score of 1000 out of 1000 in the AWS Solutions Architect – Associate exam. In this blog post, I will walk you through my proven strategies and techniques that can help you crack the AWS SAA exam with impressive scores. So, let’s dive in and unlock the secrets to AWS Exam success!
1. Understand the Exam Domains
Start by thoroughly understanding the exam domains outlined in the AWS SAA exam guide. This will give you a clear understanding of the topics that will be covered in the exam. Organize your study plan around these domains and allocate sufficient time to each one.
2. Study Materials
Gather high-quality study materials to build a strong foundation of knowledge. While there are numerous resources available, I highly recommend the following:
a. Online Courses: Enroll in online courses that provide comprehensive coverage of the exam topics. Look for courses that include video lectures, hands-on labs, and practice exams. Some popular options include A Cloud Guru and Udemy [ Recommended: Ultimate AWS Certified Solutions Architect Associate (SAA)].
b. AWS Documentation and Whitepapers: AWS offers extensive documentation and whitepapers that cover various services and architectural best practices. Dive deep into these resources to gain a comprehensive understanding of AWS services, their features, use cases, and architectural patterns.
c. Practice Exams: Solve as many practice exams as you can get your hands on. This will familiarize you with the exam format, improve your time management skills, and boost your confidence. The Skillcert pro and Udemy practice exams are highly recommended.
3. Create Your Own Study Notes
Create your own concise and well-structured study notes as you go through the study materials. Summarise key concepts, key facts, and AWS service information in a format that works best for you. Condensing information will help to reinforce your understanding and serve as a valuable resource during revision.
4. Hands-On Experience
While theoretical knowledge is essential, basic hands-on experience is equally important. Create a free AWS account and practice implementing various AWS services. Build sample architectures, configure security settings, and explore the different AWS features. The more practical experience you gain, the better you will understand the real-world applications of AWS services.
5.Join Study Groups and Online Communities
Collaborate with other aspiring AWS Solutions Architects by joining study groups or online communities. Engage in discussions, ask questions, and share your knowledge. Explaining concepts to others not only helps solidify your understanding but also exposes you to different perspectives and alternative approaches.
6. Focus on Exam Objectives
Align your preparation with the exam objectives and ensure you have a strong grasp of each topic. Pay extra attention to areas that carry more weight in the exam. For example, AWS Well-Architected Framework, security best practices, and cost optimization are often emphasized.
7. Time Management and Exam Strategy
Develop a time management strategy to ensure you can answer all the questions within the allocated time. During the exam, read each question carefully, use Elimination Technique to eliminate obviously incorrect options, and choose the best answer based on your knowledge and the AWS best practices you have learned.
8. Revise and Practice
Dedicate ample time for revision before the exam. Review your study notes, revisit challenging topics, and take additional practice exams. Identify areas where you need more practice and focus your efforts accordingly.
9. Stay Calm and Confident
On the day of the exam, stay calm and trust in your preparation. Take deep breaths, read each question carefully, and answer with confidence.
BONUS TIP: When taking an exam, non-native English speakers can request a 30-minute exam time extension. If you are not a native English speaker, you must take advantage of this.
Remember to do your best!
Cracking the AWS Solutions Architect – Associate exam is no easy feat, but with the right preparation and strategies, you can achieve outstanding results. Remember to understand the exam domains, gather comprehensive study materials, create your own study notes, gain hands-on experience, and engage with study groups and online communities. Focus on the exam objectives, manage your time effectively, and practice extensively. With dedication and perseverance, you can conquer the AWS SAA exam and open doors to exciting opportunities in the cloud computing industry.
Now it’s time to embark on your AWS SAA exam journey. Begin by organizing your study plan, gathering study materials, and setting a target exam date. Commit yourself to consistent and focused preparation, utilizing the strategies outlined in this blog. Our DevOps Career Starter course helps you do that, and much more! Start preparing for this with us now!