How I cleared AWS Certified Solutions Architect — Associate exam

In this post, I would be sharing the method and resources I used to clear the AWS certified solutions architect exam. I have also listed 5 tips to keep in mind during the process.

To start of with..

When it comes to technology, having a good understanding of the basics is crucial. With a good understanding of the workings of a datacenter, you can immaculately grasp the knowledge of Cloud technologies irrespective of the cloud providers. Through my work experience in building IaaS solutions and managing the servers in the datacenter, it has provided me with this advantage.

In early August 2022, I came across a LinkedIn post regarding “Get AWS Certified: Cloud Practitioner Challenge”. By signing up, I was eligible for a 50% discount on the exam for AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner. I scheduled the exam through PSI using the discount code and gave myself 7 days to prepare. Once I aced AWS Cloud Practitioner Certification, I was confident to take up an Associate level exam within 21 Days. Also, I utilized the discount coupon provided to me on clearing the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner exam to schedule the SAA exam.

Get AWS Certified: Cloud Practitioner Challenge (awscloud.com) — Last day to register is September 30, 2022

Apart from the recommended AWS official training and exam readiness webinars, these are the main resources I used for learning concepts, Labs, whitepapers and practice tests:

1. Stephane Maarek Udemy Courses — Ultimate AWS Certified Solutions Architect Associate (SAA) | Udemy
2. Neal Davis — AWS Certified Solutions Architect Associate Training SAA-C03 | Udemy
3. Practice Set 1 — Practice Exams | AWS Certified Solutions Architect Associate | Udemy
4. Practice Set 2 — AWS Solutions Architect Associate Certification Practice Exams | Udemy
5. AWS Certified Solutions Architect Associate Certification (NEW) (whizlabs.com)

5 Tips to keep in mind:

1. Read through the explanation of the questions answered during the practice exam, this helped me differentiate the correct answer amongst the similar options.
2. Don’t be discouraged if you fail during the practice exams. Go back and study the “Need improvement” focus area.
3. Take multiple practice exams rather than re-taking the same one.

4. While answering, make a habit of splitting the questions into 3 parts during the practice exam as well as the certification exam.

• What are the key services listed?
• What is the condition?
• Which provided option matches the requirement the most?

5. Always flag the question which you are unsure of and circle back to it even if your concentration is saturated during the exam.

There are ample documents, videos, courses, training and blogs on AWS solutions. Take the first step and keep learning. All the best!