At Oracle OpenWorld I received a number of questions about the “best way to study” from people who had never certified or hadn't upgraded in a while. By following this simple path you can almost certainly improve your knowledge and skills (the most important objective) and also do well on the exam(s). Here are the steps: |
1. Fully understand the certification requirements for the track that you are pursuing.
- How many exams are there?
- Is there a course requirement?
- Are there any prerequisites?
- What are the recommended courses, practice exams, etc.?
2. Carefully review the objectives for each exam and perform a “gap analysis”.
- Review each set of exam objectives independently.
- Grade your understanding and experience on each objective – high (10), medium (5) or low (1).
3. Based upon your “gap analysis,” build a comprehensive study plan and follow it.
- Choose study types that you prefer (hands-on practice, course attendance, flash cards, white papers, books, etc.)
4. Reevaluate your gap analysis and update your study plan
- By reviewing your progress you can continue to tweak and customize your study plan and will become more efficient in making progress.
It is important to note that multiple methods of study will expand your knowledge and skills further than just one. I highly recommend that you include a healthy amount of hands-on practice along with other more conventional methods that you choose.
Remember your goal in getting certified is not only to pass the exam(s), but more importantly to improve your knowledge and skills. Each gap that you identify represents an opportunity to do become a better IT professional.
Paul Sorensen,
Director, Oracle Certification
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