Thursday, March 25, 2010

Good Morning

Well, it looks like I'm already seeing some improvement. I took another 100-question practice exam this morning and got a 67%. I think it's good that I'm seeing results this quick, and I'm finding out what specific areas I have to study up on in order to get success. In reality, I only need to raise my score a bit more to pass the real certification. I just hope that this information is still relevant, but I think it will be for the most part. Anything "newer" would most likely have been addressed in other IT classes I've taken since.

There are 4 different "exams" on this software, and this time I chose the second one. There were some similar questions, and some different ones, and some really weird ones I don't think I've ever heard of before. Like UARTS... what is that?? But at least now I'm aware of the expectations a bit more. I will continue using the textbook from Net+ to study (I have a method of reviewing the chapter summaries, and using a lot of the diagrams to drill with) and online forums. Maybe I can find some eBooks as well, that would be nice.

I think so far I'm making good on my desire to practice every day. Maybe when I get my software test scores above 90% I will go and take the actual exam, just to ensure I have a margin of error built in. Like I've said before, it's essential that I pass. And after I do, I'm going to study and take A+. Then, MCSA exams, and finally, Cisco.

Tuesday, March 23, 2010

A New Beginning

Well, last night I finally completed my 2-credit project. Now, all I have to accomplish is successfully certifying, and documenting that process. Once again, I turn to this blog--for revival, redemption, and my quest for Net+ certification before the end of the semester!

I'm not trying to be negative, but I was hoping to already be certified by now. However, I haven't really studied or practiced since November. Today, I took another 100-question practice exam in CertBlaster. The results indicate that I'm at the same level I was in November. I received a 60% and finished in about half hour. At least it gives me study objectives.

I know this is going to be a real challenge, but at the same time I've now freed up enough time in my schedule in order to make this happen. It HAS to happen. I need to certify to graduate, and to get a career I'm actually interested in. And getting Net+ will just be a small beginning for me.

When I get home from class, I will study for at least an hour later this afternoon. I will drill myself and work on memorization of key facts, especially ones that reappear over and over again in the exam. Gotta work strategy on this one.