USEFUL TOOLS, TIPS, AND STUDY TECHNIQUES

Many test takers prepare for certification exams by focusing only on certain areas of subject matter they assume will be on the exam. In the author’s opinion, this is a huge mistake. The current A+ exams cover a broad range of information. In order to increase your chances of passing, it is important that you spread your focus of study across all identified areas of content in this book, based on the domains specified by CompTIA.

It seems that most certification preparation guides are geared to have you figure out some sort of magical strategy to answer questions correctly and ultimately pass the tests. Anyone who has come before you and passed these exams will tell you that it’s really quite simple. Prepare yourself well with proper study, and choose the right answer to each question on the exam.

The book you are holding in your hands will help you become A+ certified. Read the entire book twice. It has been crafted with your certification success in mind.

On the CD The practice tests included on the CD-ROM are very accurate and are good simulations of the real tests. Take the practice tests repeatedly until you score 100% every time. When you take a test, whether it is a practice test or a real test, read each question carefully and go with your initial choice. Try not to read too much into the questions. Certification developers are great at making the wrong answers look good. They include key words in the questions to confuse you. The longer you sit there staring at the screen, the more likely you are to pick the wrong answer. Here is another useful tip: do not worry about the questions you have already answered. If you are not sure of a particular question you have answered, mark it for later review when you have answered all questions. Only focus on the questions in front of you, and try not to think of anything else. Learn to prepare yourself well, and always remember that the difference between pass and fail can be one question.

Test takers who have gone before you post ‘brain dumps’ on many Internet sites. These are usually questions that they remember seeing on the test. Be very careful if you study these postings—many of them contain incorrect answers and information. These brain dumps may be helpful by identifying certain topics or material that may show up the test, but you should really know the material.

If you study this book, take the suggestions, and do the groundwork, you should do very well on the real tests.