In mid-September, AWS officially released an updated version of the AWS CCP (CFL-02) exam. The following table summarizes some details about the test:
The AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner certification is a valuable asset for managers and leaders, offering essential cloud insights to navigate the ever-changing business landscape successfully.
In today’s rapidly evolving digital scenery, maintaining a grasp of digital transformation is essential for effective leadership. This certification equips you with the fundamental knowledge necessary to make informed decisions within the cloud environment. It also facilitates productive discussions with technical teams, enabling seamless collaboration and optimized resource management.
AWS CCP is for you if …
You are curious about the AWS ecosystem and exploring the potential opportunities it offers. Acquiring a foundational understanding of AWS services, support options, pricing structures, and products can help you chart your course for your next career moves.
You are in a role that involves interacting with a technical audience, such as a project manager collaborating with solution architects and developers or a procurement officer responsible for assessing technology investments. Acquiring foundational knowledge to engage effectively in discussions and pose relevant questions can greatly enhance your ability to analyze and assess the programs and projects under your supervision. This knowledge allows you to provide valuable support and insights in your role.
In the following sections, I share my tips to prepare yourself for the exam.
What’s Changed
The recent modifications are both well-timed and logical. Specifically, Domains 3 and 4 have been restructured to encompass services and support, respectively. It’s worth noting that I had also organized the content in a similar manner when preparing for CFL-C01, and I’m pleased to see that AWS has now addressed this noticeable gap in their content structure.
The weighting for each domain has some changes as well, which can be found in the second table below.
Be sure to thoroughly read the Exam Guide – the latest version is quite well-structured and offers improved readability. This guide effectively condenses domain content while outlining the necessary knowledge and skills for each section. In conjunction with the reorganization of certain topics, as outlined in Appendix 1 of the Exam Guide, there's a new part on understanding the benefits and strategies related to migration. All the content from the previous AWS CCP exam guide remains intact in the updated version and no part of the previous content is deleted.
Know the Content
First, you should thoroughly review the Exam Guide and be aware of the domains and topics included in the exam. Employ a strategic approach when managing your time and attention. Prioritize subjects that carry greater weight in the exam, dedicating more of your time to them.
Next, it’s study time. You have a variety of paid and free options to choose from. I recommend starting with the free content that is available to you:
If you're someone who learns best through audio and visual content, enroll in AWS’s on-demand Cloud Practitioner Essentials course, which spans four hours. This course provides a well-rounded blend of text, video content, and quizzes to help you understand the essential subjects necessary for your exam.
If you prefer a hands-on approach to learning, I strongly suggest trying out AWS Cloud Quest. It offers a role-playing learning game that lets you dive into the concepts you’re studying. While the quest is entirely optional, it’s an enjoyable way to explore and apply what you’ve learned.
- If you want a deeper understanding of the exam topics, I highly recommend the following:
- Additional Reading:
- Case Studies and Product Pages: AWS boasts a catalogue of over 200 products and services, which can feel overwhelming when preparing for a time-sensitive exam. I recommend that every time you encounter a new name, take a moment to search for the corresponding product page. AWS has done an excellent job crafting these pages, filled with comprehensive content such as product descriptions, videos, client case studies, and more. For example, while seeking a hands-on grasp of EventBridge, API Gateway, and Lambda, I came across a resource where Robbie Kohler, Taco Bell's Director of Software Engineering, adeptly guides us through Taco Bell's AWS Pipeline.
Practice
Before attempting the exam, it’s essential to integrate practice tests into your study routine. Online resources offer numerous simulation questions and AWS provides a sample quiz.
To maximize your preparation, I suggest initiating the simulation exam immediately after completing your initial study round. This will enable you to promptly pinpoint your weaker areas and allocate your study time effectively to address them.
Exam Time!
You have the flexibility to register for the exam online. You have two choices: you can either opt for the convenience of taking the test from the comfort of your home or office, or you can choose to attend one of the Pearson Vue Test Centers to sit for the exam.
You’ll be provided with various time and date slots to select from. Should you decide to take the exam at home/office, ensure that your workspace is free of any clutter. I suggest opting for a room devoid of books and notes. Additionally, you’ll be asked to take photos of your surroundings and rotate your camera to allow the proctor to inspect and approve your testing environment.
Post-Exam Days
The final results will be posted to your AWS accounts within 5 business days of taking the exam. You can activate your badge upon passing the exam on Credly and share it with your network.
The best part, in my opinion, is the benefits that you can start to enjoy as soon as you pass the exam:
- 50% discount on the fee for the next AWS exam that you take.
- Exclusive access to the Global Certified Community.
- Exclusive access to local events, re:Invent sessions and select summit events.
Merkle is a certified AWS Partner with a team of passionate AWS certified experts and practitioners. If you or your team need help navigating the study roadmap to any of the AWS certification programs, contact us - we would be happy to help!
