Introduction
Amazon web services (AWS) is the most popular cloud provider in the market, AWS provides on-demand cloud computing platforms and APIs to individuals, companies, and governments, on a metered, pay-as-you-go basis. AWS also offers certifications to help professionals validate these in-demand cloud computing skills.
The AWS certified cloud practitioner is a Knowledge-based certification for foundational understanding of AWS Cloud. The AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner validates foundational, high-level understanding of AWS Cloud, services, and terminology. This is a good starting point on the AWS Certification journey for individuals with no prior IT or cloud experience switching to a cloud career or for line-of-business employees looking for foundational cloud literacy.
It costs 100 USD and consists of 65 questions, it is time limited to 90 minutes with a pass mark of 70%. The exam can be taken either in person online proctored exam or at Pearson VUE testing center. I chose to take it at a Pearson Vue testing center as it was more convenient for me.
Tips and resources used
Some resources I used and recommend before taking the examination include
Read the exam guide: The exam guide provides insights into everything you need to know before taking the exam. it outlines the recommended AWS knowledge and scope of the exam.
AWS skill builder: Amazon provides free learning paths where you can learn from AWS experts and build cloud skills online. The free learning content includes 600+ on-demand courses and learning plans, Standard Exam Prep courses, AWS Certification Official Question Sets, AWS Cloud Quest: Cloud Practitioner and even Digital Badges.
Stephane Maarek's Udemy course: This detailed self-paced course by Stephane Maarek is the best resource out there for the cloud practitioner exam, it is highly rated by users and it's worth every single penny. The course also contains a 65-question practice test. I went through this course twice and this helped me in acing the exam.
Practice questions: I used exam topics and whizlabs practice questions.
AWS whitepapers: AWS whitepapers are a great way to expand your knowledge of the cloud. Authored by Amazon Web Services (AWS) and the AWS community, they provide in-depth content that often addresses specific customer situations. Use this in conjunction with the AWS guide to read concepts within the scope of the exam.
Don't just watch videos, practice along on the AWS management console: AWS offers a 12-month free tier service for users to gain free, hands-on experience with the AWS platform, products, and services. Take advantage of this free tier and explore hands-on with different AWS services.
What's next?
On clearing the exam, you get a digital badge to showcase your achievements to your network and a discount voucher for your next certification exam.
The certified cloud practitioner is the first of many certifications AWS offers. The full list of AWS certifications can be found here. The next certification on my list is the AWS Solutions Architect Associate Exam.
I hope this post is useful for you in preparing for your cloud practitioner exam. Good luck!