Tech+ (Episode 4): Top 10 Study Tips and Tricks

When I first started studying for the CompTIA Tech+ (formerly ITF+) certification, I (honestly) had no idea where to begin. Should I dive straight into practice questions? Watch hours of video tutorials? Maybe just hope for the best? It was a little confusing. But over time, through some trial and error, I settled into several effective techniques and resources.

Whether you're new to IT, returning to it after years away, or just exploring this as a hobby, here are my top 10 study techniques and resources that worked for me—and might work for you, too.

#1. Understand the Exam Objectives

Start by downloading the official CompTIA Tech+ (FC0-U71) exam objectives from CompTIA's website. Think of these objectives as your study guide blueprint—they outline what's covered on the exam. In my experience, CompTIA's exams include few, if any, surprises. If you follow the exam objectives closely, you'll be fine.

The exam will cover six domains ranging from IT concepts to security. Understanding the expectations ahead of time gives you a clear and reliable roadmap. Save time and effort. Focus your energy on the topics that matter most. Study smarter, not harder.

#2. Build a Calm Study Environment

Your environment can play a decisive role in your ability to focus. Create a space that encourages calm and concentration. Keep your desk tidy, make your study space beautiful (even simply so; you don't need to spend lots of money), turn off unnecessary notifications, and tell others you need uninterrupted time. A clean, focused space reduces stress and helps you stay productive.

#3. Prioritize Your Health

Good sleep, balanced meals, and regular exercise can improve focus and mental clarity. Even a 10-minute walk can make a difference before or after studying. Maybe head outside for a few minutes, take some deep breaths, clear your head,

Your brain and body need proper care to function at its best. Healthy habits sharpen your mind and help you retain information more effectively. Solid nutrition helps, too. Avoid processed junk foods, sugars, too much caffeine, etc. Avoid the jitters, crashes, and cloudiness that often follow these lesser foods. Would you put 87 octane in your Ferrari? No. You're worth more than many Ferraris. Treat yourself accordingly.

#4. Study in Bite-Sized, Consistent Chunks

I'm going to say it. Cramming doesn't work. Instead, aim for shorter, focused study sessions using methods like my favorite, the Pomodoro Technique. This approach means studying in 25-minute intervals with 5-minute breaks in between. Guided Pomodoro timers on YouTube can keep you on track. Small, consistent sessions prevent burnout and help you stay focused.

#5. Use a Mix of Study Resources

Don't rely on just one resource. I recommend combining video tutorials, books, practice tests, and flashcards for a well-rounded understanding of the material. There are some fantastic people on YouTube, Udemy, and other platforms - people with expertise far beyond mind. Some of these even sell practice tests. I used ChatGPT to create flash cards. Seeing the same material presented in different ways reinforces learning and keeps things interesting.

#6. Talk about What You're Learning

One of the most effective ways to reinforce your knowledge is to discuss it with others. Talk through concepts aloud to yourself, a friend, or even an imaginary audience. My wife's been a big encouragement to me in this regard. We will go for a drive and get a good cup of coffee at Starbucks, and I'll share some of what I'm learning. Obviously, you don't want to blather on and on and bore people to tears. However, a little sharing here and there can really help solidify things in your mind. In my experience, if you can explain something to someone else clearly and succinctly, you truly understand it. Sharing with others forces you to process the material deeply.

#7. Get Hands-On Whenever Possible

Practical experience brings IT concepts to life. Set up a home network, organize your computer's file system, or experiment with basic software tools. I purchased and set up a KVM switch when I studied for Tech+ (formerly ITF+). Now, that's a super simple thing to do, but it was like translating Akkadian for me at the time. I had no idea how to do something even as straightforward as that. Doing stuff like that turns abstract concepts into real-world skills; it hardwires them into your mind and understanding.

#8. Stay Motivated with Small Wins

Celebrate your progress along the way. Finished a chapter? Take a short break. Mastered a tricky concept? Treat yourself to your favorite coffee or snack. Rewarding yourself keeps you motivated and helps break the monotony of long study periods. I like watching sitcom reruns. After a particularly robust study session, I'd make a snack and watch an episode of The Office or King of Queens.

#9. Join a Community

Studying solo can feel isolating, but there are plenty of online communities where you can connect with fellow learners. Seeing others on a similar journey inspires and motivates you to keep going. With that in mind, please subscribe to this channel and join this community! Leave a comment and let me know what you're studying now or which of these study tips resonates with you. If you have another helpful tip, please share it in the comments with my thanks! I'm always after the best ideas.

#10. Get ready to celebrate!

While celebrating milestones along the way is important, don't forget to plan something special for when you achieve your ultimate goal: passing the Tech+ exam! Having something exciting to look forward to can keep you motivated during tough study sessions and remind you that all your hard work is building toward a meaningful accomplishment. You might treat yourself to a nice dinner at your favorite restaurant. You could plan a fun day trip or weekend getaway to relax and recharge. Maybe you will invest in a new gadget or tech gear to mark your achievement. Of course, share the news with the people in your life—let them celebrate with you!

Acknowledging your success reinforces the value of your effort and gives you a well-deserved moment to reflect on how far you've come. Passing an IT certification is a big deal, and you should take the time to celebrate your accomplishment in a way that feels meaningful to you.

When you hit this milestone, know that the journey was worth it. Your certification is proof of your growth, persistence, and the skills you've developed along the way. Don't diminish the completion of an entry-level certification like Tech+, either. Just because something is introductory and entry-level doesn't mean it's unimportant. A house is only as strong as its foundation. Tech+ is a solid foundation.

Final Thoughts

Preparing for the CompTIA Tech+ certification is a journey, not a race. By using these study techniques, staying consistent, and rewarding yourself along the way, you'll pass the exam and grow in confidence and knowledge.

Remember, this isn't just about earning a certification—it's about discovering your potential and embracing the challenge of learning something new. If I can return to IT after years away, I know you can do it too.

So grab your favorite study tool, set a goal, and let's conquer Tech+ together. You've got this!

Be sure to check out my YouTube channel (@k.richardlabbe), The K. Richard Labbe Podcast, and visit my website at krichardlabbe.com for more learning tools. You can also find me on Facebook, Instagram, and X under the name KRichardLabbe (all one word). See you next time!

Take me to Tech+ Episode 5

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