If you’re starting your cloud certification journey , you might be very interested in taking some of the AWS exams. The foundational exam is the AWS (CLF-CO2) which is a nice starting point in your certification pathway. I have recently passed my exam and I would like to share my strategy so that it helps and inspires you to start your journey , or if you’re already on it , then I hope it helps contribute towards a passing grade.
Disclaimer
This blog is part of a 4 part series covering the 2024 AWS (CLF-CO2) study guide. While there is tremendous value in going through this blog even if you are not writing the exam , please be aware that the content is centered around the exam.
As with any exam , the curriculum and the course content will evolve over time , please pay attention to when this blog was written and take into account that the exam and its content may have changed.
Resources for My Study Plan
I have a preference for a mixed learning environment, so I chose diverse study materials that complement each other. Here’s a breakdown of the resources I used:
1. Structured Learning via Udemy Course
- To lay a solid foundation with a structured content and curriculum that systematically covers the essentials of AWS.
2. Concept Reinforcement with YouTube Study Cram
- Watch a YouTube study cram video specifically designed to highlight and reinforce critical AWS concepts, making it easier to grasp and remember the material.
3. Review with Official AWS (CLF-CO2) Study Guide
- Create study notes based on the official AWS (CLF-CO2) study guide, checking off each concept as I progress. This worked like a checklist to confirm that I’ve covered all necessary topics.
My Study Approach for AWS
Here’s how I structured my study approach in relation to my study material:
Week 1 & 2 : Foundation Building
- Udemy Course: Dedicated 1.5 hours daily to a 14-hour course I had purchased on Udemy. This pace was designed to fit my study sessions into my existing work and personal commitments, ensuring a balanced approach to learning.
Week 3: Review and Practice
- Study Cram Session: Allocated 30 minutes to 1 hour each day to a study cram available for free on YouTube. This session was not just about passive watching but involved active note-taking to reinforce my learning.
- Revision and Practice Tests: Reserved the last couple of days for focused revision and taking practice tests. I planned to spend 1-2 hours on two practice tests the day before the exam. This helped me identify my weak areas and allowed me to allocate sufficient time for targeted revision.
Content domains and weightings
• Domain 1: Cloud Concepts (24% of scored content)
• Domain 2: Security and Compliance (30% of scored content)
• Domain 3: Cloud Technology and Services (34% of scored content)
• Domain 4: Billing, Pricing, and Support (12% of scored content)
Where can you get the study material
I highly recommend the following Udemy course.
Ultimate AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner Exam Training – Course Downloads
The following youtube playlist also assisted in getting me prepped and ready. It was created by the same guy who did the course and is a fantastic supplement
New AWS Cloud Practitioner CLF-C02 Exam Guide
Conclusion
The test was challenging and it definitely was a good idea to go through the course and youtube video but the time I allocated was sufficient to get enough content in order to get a decent passing grade.
If you’re interested in my study notes take a gander below.