The Only CompTIA A+ Study Resources You'll Need

The right CompTIA A+ study resources can determine your success or failure in these valuable certification exams. Professionals with certifications like CompTIA A+ earn 10-15% more than their non-certified counterparts. This worldwide credential demonstrates your significant skills in troubleshooting, networking, operating systems, and security.

You should understand what lies ahead before starting your preparation. CompTIA A+ certification requires two separate exams - Core 1 and Core 2. Each exam costs $265 USD, bringing the total to $530 USD. You'll face 90 questions in each exam and need to score 675 out of 900 to pass. The certification stays valid for three years after you earn it. Renewal happens through CompTIA's Continuing Education program.

Quality CompTIA A+ study materials are easy to access. This piece covers the best study resources to help you prepare effectively. You'll find everything from official guides and top-rated books to free video courses and practice tests from providers like Crucial Exams. The resources will help you succeed on exam day, whether you're just beginning or need to fill knowledge gaps.

Understanding the CompTIA A+ Exam Structure

Getting ready for the CompTIA A+ certification requires a clear understanding of what to expect on exam day. The exam structure will guide your study plan and help you manage your time based on each topic's weight.

Core 1 (220-1201) and Core 2 (220-1202)

CompTIA A+ certification requires passing two separate exams: Core 1 (220-1201) and Core 2 (220-1202). These are the latest versions that launched in March 2025 and will stay active for about three years.

You'll need to pay separate fees for each exam and can take them in any order. Both exams must be from the same set of objectives and completed before they retire. Your certification stays valid for three years from the date you pass both exams.

Each exam follows this format:

• Up to 90 questions per exam
• 90 minutes to complete each exam
• Required passing scores: 675 out of 900 for Core 1 and 700 out of 900 for Core 2
• You'll get your results right after finishing

Types of questions: multiple choice, performance-based

A+ exams check your knowledge through different question types that test more than memorization:

Multiple-choice questions come in two types:

1. Single-answer questions with one correct option
2. Multiple-answer questions where you pick several right answers

Performance-based questions (PBQs) show up at the start of your exam and test your real-life problem-solving skills. These questions appear as:

• Simulations: Mock environments of tools like firewalls, network diagrams, or operating systems. They work with limited features but let you solve problems in different ways.
• Virtual environments: Complete virtual machines with actual operating systems and software. You can try any possible solution, right or wrong.
• Fill-in-the-blank: Direct questions needing specific answers.
• Drag-and-drop: Questions that ask you to place items in specific spots.

Smart PBQ strategy: You can skip simulation PBQs and come back later, but virtual PBQs need immediate completion. Most exams have three to six PBQs, though this number changes.

Domains covered in each exam

Each exam focuses on specific technical areas that match IT support roles:

Core 1 (220-1201) covers hardware basics:

• Mobile devices (13%): Component installation, accessory setup, networks, and fixes
• Networking (23%): Protocols, ports, SOHO networks, and tools
• Hardware (25%): Installing components, cables, peripherals, and power settings
• Virtualization and cloud computing (11%): Virtual machines, hypervisors, and cloud models
• Hardware and network troubleshooting (28%): Finding and fixing issues with proper tools

Core 2 (220-1202) deals with software and security:

• Operating Systems (28%): Windows, Linux, macOS, Chrome OS, iOS, and iPadOS
• Security (28%): Physical and digital security, malware, social engineering, and SOHO network protection
• Software Troubleshooting (23%): Common Windows OS, mobile OS, and application issues
• Operational Procedures (21%): Documentation, backup, safety, and remote access tools

This exam structure helps create an effective study plan by focusing on high-weight areas. Successful candidates often study by domain instead of exam, with extra focus on troubleshooting since it makes up much of both exams.

Crucial Exams offers free practice tests that cover CompTIA A+ Core 1 and Core 2 domains and match the actual exam experience.

Official CompTIA A+ Study Materials

The CompTIA A+ exams become easier to tackle if you start with official study materials. These resources come directly from the certification creators and line up perfectly with actual exam content.

CompTIA Official Study Guide eBooks

Official CompTIA A+ eBooks are the life-blood resources for certification candidates. These guides match exam objectives directly. You'll know you're studying exactly what you need.

The Official CompTIA A+ Core 1 Student Guide teaches you everything to troubleshoot and solve problems in networks, operating systems, mobile devices, and security topics. These guides stand apart from regular tech books with:

• Content that matches Core 1 (220-1201) exam objectives exactly
• A complete glossary you can reference quickly
• Activities that put your knowledge to work

The Core 2 guide follows this same well-laid-out approach. Both guides include practice questions to test your knowledge and PowerPoint slides that help visual learners.

A great benefit comes with these guides. Your purchase gives you access to the CompTIA Learning Center platform. You can track progress and use extra resources there.

New certification seekers often love CompTIA's bundle options. These packages combine exam vouchers, study guides, and practice tests at lower prices. You'll even get retake vouchers just in case you don't pass the first time.

Exam Objectives PDFs

The free CompTIA A+ exam objectives PDFs from the official website should be your first stop. These documents show you everything needed for certification success.

The exam objectives for Core 1 (220-1201) cover five main areas:

• Mobile devices (13%)
• Networking (23%)
• Hardware (25%)
• Virtualization and cloud computing (11%)
• Hardware and network troubleshooting (28%)

Core 2 objectives focus on software and security components. These PDFs help you:

1. Build your study plan based on domain percentages
2. Check off progress as you learn each section
3. Find knowledge gaps before exam day

Examples in these objectives help clarify topics, but this is just a part of all exam content. Many successful candidates use these PDFs as checklists and mark sections off as they learn.

Top-Rated Books for A+ Certification

Quality books beyond official CompTIA materials give deeper insights and different explanations for A+ certification topics. These additional resources excel at breaking down complex concepts into manageable chunks.

Shawn Walker's All-in-One Manual

Shawn Walker's "CompTIA A+ 220-1201 and 220-1202 Study Guide" stands out as a detailed resource for both Core 1 and Core 2 exams. The manual focuses on what matters most - passing the exams and building practical skills without unnecessary information.

The guide shines with these features:

• Streamlined lessons that avoid fluff and focus on exam essentials
• Practical labs that help with ground scenarios
• AI-powered exam preparation through the included Exam AI Trainer Pro

Walker's straightforward writing style makes this guide effective. "This guide combines clear explanations, practical labs, and exam-focused strategies to get you certified, faster and smarter," notes the book description. The manual covers mobile devices, networking, hardware, virtualization, cloud computing, operating systems, security, and troubleshooting.

The resource costs $20.99 for Kindle (free with Kindle Unlimited) or $29.97 for the paperback version. Readers love its logical organization and practical approach, giving it 4.6 out of 5 stars from 151 reviews.

Drayden Voss's Certification Guide

Drayden Voss brings another excellent option with his "CompTIA A+ Exam Prep 2025-2026, 220-1201 & 220-1202 Certification Guide." This all-in-one study manual excels at preparing you for performance-based questions that challenge many test-takers.

The guide's strengths include:

• Complete coverage of both Core 1 and Core 2 exam objectives
• Ten full-length practice exams with detailed answers and explanations
• Ground troubleshooting scenarios that match actual job responsibilities

"From motherboards to security essentials, this book leaves no stone unturned," according to Network & Systems Journal, which awarded it five stars. Tech Education Weekly calls it "a powerhouse for anyone serious about passing the CompTIA A+ exams".

Voss's guide costs $9.99 for Kindle (free with Kindle Unlimited) or $32.99 for paperback. The guide's emphasis on making readers "think like a troubleshooter" helps both on the exam and in IT positions.

Exam Cram Series Overview

The Exam Cram series has earned its reputation for focused, efficient exam preparation. Their "CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1201) and Core 2 (220-1202) Exam Cram" maintains this excellence.

The resource has these preparation tools:

• Chapter quizzes and Exam Alerts for ongoing assessment
• CramSheet for last-minute review of critical concepts
• Pearson Test Prep software with live assessment and feedback

Exam Cram's approach delivers "straight to the point, no unnecessary fluff" content. The material covers hardware troubleshooting, mobile devices, operating systems, and security essentials that line up with exam objectives.

Standard books cost $47.99 while Premium Edition eBooks are $55.99. Premium Editions come with additional practice tests for better preparation.

Your learning style should guide your book choice - Walker's manual for detailed coverage, Voss's guide for extensive practice, or Exam Cram for focused review. Many successful test-takers combine a main text with free resources like Professor Messer's videos.

Free and Paid Video Courses

Video courses are a great way to learn CompTIA A+ concepts. These resources can help bridge the gap between theory and real-life application, especially if you're a visual or auditory learner.

Professor Messer's Free Video Series

Professor Messer stands out as the gold standard for free CompTIA A+ video training. His complete course covers every topic from the official exam objectives at no cost. The video library has:

• 95 videos with a total running time of 25 hours and 38 minutes
• All content available online with no purchase needed
• Coverage mapped directly to exam domains

"All of our CompTIA A+ training videos are completely free; there's nothing to buy when you watch all of our videos online," states Professor Messer's website. Students can access a 24/7 live Discord server and join monthly live study group sessions.

Many first-time test takers love these videos because they explain things clearly and focus on exam content. Complex topics become easier to understand with his step-by-step approach. Plus, his 220-1101 course has 68 videos totaling 9 hours and 36 minutes.

LinkedIn Learning and Udemy Options

Paid platforms offer detailed video courses with extra features for students who want more structure.

Udemy's highly-rated CompTIA A+ courses cost between $14.99 (on sale) and $44.99 (regular price). A typical course has:

• 12.5 hours of on-demand video content
• Two practice tests to check your progress
• Mobile and TV access for flexible studying
• Certificate of completion

Most Udemy courses break down content into sections like computer hardware, mobile devices, networking, and security fundamentals. On top of that, some courses include role-playing exercises that simulate real-life IT support scenarios.

LinkedIn Learning (formerly Lynda.com) features professionally produced CompTIA A+ preparation courses. While specific details weren't in the factual keypoints, these courses usually offer high-quality videos created by industry experts.

YouTube Channels Worth Following

YouTube has other valuable free resources beyond Professor Messer's content for CompTIA A+ preparation.

The "howtonetwork" channel's free bootcamp runs for 31 hours and has got over 2 million views. This detailed resource covers:

• A+ fundamentals from scratch
• Hardware components and troubleshooting
• Network configuration essentials

Your learning style and budget will determine the best option. Free resources like Professor Messer provide excellent core content, while paid options often include extras like practice exams, downloadable resources, and instructor Q&A.

Hands-On Labs and Simulations

Practical skills are just as important as theoretical knowledge when preparing for the CompTIA A+ exams. Hands-on labs and simulations help bridge the gap between reading concepts and applying them in ground scenarios.

Practice Labs by CompTIA

CertMaster Labs is CompTIA's official hands-on practice environment. This browser-based platform has:

• Ground software, virtual machines, and network solutions
• Guided activities that line up with certification objectives
• Authentic skill-building opportunities without equipment investment

The layout uses a standard format with a left sidebar containing scenarios and tasks, a center workspace for performing actions, and a right sidebar with management tools. These labs don't just test your knowledge, they build practical competence through applied activities.

CompTIA's lab environments cost about €85.95 EUR per subscription. Many first-time certification seekers combine these labs with theoretical resources for detailed preparation.

Virtual environments for troubleshooting

Virtual labs remove the need to buy expensive equipment or risk breaking production environments. These sandbox environments let you:

1. Practice configurations without hardware costs
2. Make mistakes safely without collateral damage
3. Apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations

CBT Nuggets puts it best: "Don't learn it to learn it. Learn it to know it". Their virtual labs give you ground practice that builds confidence before exam day.

Budget-conscious students can access free trial periods from many providers. You can test different environments before spending money. Several virtual lab environments offer well-laid-out tasks that mirror actual performance-based questions on the exam.

Simulated hardware and OS tasks

Performance-based questions make up much of the A+ exams, often appearing as:

• Simulated operating system environments
• Virtual hardware components requiring configuration
• Troubleshooting scenarios that need multiple steps to fix

CyberNowLabs offers lab simulations designed to prepare you for performance-based questions on the A+ Core 1 exam. These simulations strengthen key concepts while giving excellent practice for the most challenging question types.

TestOut LabSim gives students simulations that copy ground IT tasks. The environment has integrated hardware and OS simulations with instant feedback to help improve performance.

CertMaster lab simulations let you manage virtual hardware components and make connections in a workspace similar to physical equipment. The system has:

• Multiple views of components for detailed inspection
• Cable end connections that need proper configuration
• Simulated operating systems for software troubleshooting

Boson's practice labs line up with practical objectives of the CompTIA A+ 220-1102 exam. Their guided, step-by-step exercises build confidence in areas like operating system installation, networking configuration, and implementing security measures.

Combining these practical resources with theoretical study materials gives you the best chance to succeed on exam day. The hands-on experience prepares you for performance-based questions and builds skills you'll use throughout your IT career.

Best Practice Test Resources

Quality practice tests are the foundations of your A+ certification success. Students who score 85% or higher on these tests achieve a 92% pass rate on actual exams.

Crucial Exams Free Practice Tests

Crucial Exams' free trials let you take practice tests without spending money. Their platform gives you access to expert-created questions that match the actual certification exam format.

The free version has:

• Expert-written questions that test your knowledge effectively
• A modern, easy-to-use platform that works great on mobile devices
• Limited questions before you need to pay
• Selected performance-based question simulations

The platform's AI study assistant "Bash" sets it apart. It gives you personal tips based on how you perform, even during the free trial. This helps you spot knowledge gaps fast.

The IT Package subscription costs $19.99 monthly and covers all CompTIA exams. They also offer cheaper exam vouchers: $233 for standard A+ vouchers ($32 savings) and $276 for vouchers with retake options ($38 savings).

New test takers often start with these free tests. They help you understand where you stand before buying paid resources.

Study Plans and Scheduling Tips

A well-laid-out study plan can make the difference between passing your CompTIA A+ exams and wasting time and money. Your background and available time will shape your approach.

How long to study based on experience

Your IT background substantially affects study duration. Most candidates pass after 2-3 months of preparation. Beginners with minimal IT experience should plan for 120-160 total study hours (60-80 hours per exam). People with some IT background typically need 100-140 total hours. Seasoned professionals might prepare in just 20-40 total hours.

CompTIA suggests 9-12 months of hands-on experience before taking the exams. This isn't set in stone. Many successful candidates have passed both exams by studying 10-15 hours weekly over several months.

First step: A diagnostic test helps create your schedule. This assessment reveals your strengths and weaknesses to build a focused plan.

Creating a weekly study schedule

The broad A+ curriculum becomes manageable with proper structure. Successful candidates often plan their study time based on domain weights instead of moving chronologically through materials.

A practical weekly approach:

• Focus on one or two specific domains each week
• Study 1-2 hours daily with full concentration
• Plan specific review days
• Match study sessions with your peak energy times

Pro tip: Google Calendar helps block dedicated study sessions. Trello works great for visual progress tracking. Create separate cards for each domain in Trello and move them from "To Learn" to "Reviewing" to "Mastered" as you progress.

Balancing theory and practice

Theoretical knowledge and hands-on practice are vital foundations for exam preparation. Mix these learning approaches throughout your study plan to get the best results.

The Pomodoro Technique serves many candidates well, 25 minutes of focused work followed by a 5-minute break. This method keeps you sharp without burning out. Quick 15-20 minute reviews of previous material before new topics help reinforce learning.

Both exams include performance-based questions, so spend at least 20-30% of your prep time on hands-on practice. Labs, simulations, and DIY projects develop practical skills that multiple-choice questions can't cover.

Note that consistency beats cramming. Regular short sessions yield better results than occasional long study marathons.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Many A+ certification candidates make avoidable mistakes that cost them time, money, and confidence. You can save yourself frustration later by spotting these pitfalls now.

Skipping performance-based questions

Performance-based questions (PBQs) show up right at the start of your exam, but many test-takers rush through or skip them completely. Your score takes a substantial hit from this mistake.

PBQs test how well you can use your knowledge in simulated environments, just like IT professionals do every day. Each exam features between one and ten PBQs. While you can flag simulation PBQs to review later, you must complete virtual PBQs as they appear.

Underestimating Core 2 topics

New test-takers often spend too much time on Core 1 hardware topics and not enough on Core 2 subjects like security and software troubleshooting.

This creates issues since Core 2 needs a higher passing score (700 vs. 675 for Core 1). Core 2 exam also tests more abstract concepts that become harder to grasp without proper preparation.

Success requires equal attention to both exams. Troubleshooting methodologies deserve special focus as they make up 28% of Core 1 and 23% of Core 2 exam content.

Cramming without practice

Last-minute studying leaves you time to memorize concepts without applying them. This approach fails for several reasons:

• Your brain won't retain information well through cramming. The A+ exams test practical application, not just theory. PBQs demand hands-on experience that memorization alone can't provide.
• A consistent study schedule should start weeks before the exam. Break your study sessions into smaller chunks and tackle one exam objective at a time. Mix theoretical learning with hands-on practice through labs and simulations.

The best preparation strategy combines regular study sessions with hands-on practice and frequent practice tests. This approach builds your knowledge and confidence, everything you need to succeed in the exam.

Conclusion

A balanced approach to study helps you achieve CompTIA A+ certification. This guide has shown you the exam structure, official materials, third-party resources, and practical study strategies that successful candidates use.

Your certification path just needs theoretical knowledge and hands-on skills. Many candidates focus only on books or videos, but successful test-takers combine multiple resources. CompTIA's official materials are the foundation, and books from authors like Shawn Walker and Drayden Voss give alternative explanations that might match your learning style better.

Crucial Exams CompTIA practice tests are excellent starting points with no financial commitment.

Performance-based questions deserve special attention. These practical scenarios reflect real-life IT tasks and appear at the start of both exams. You'll lose valuable points by skipping or rushing through them. Labs and simulations build skills for these questions and reinforce theoretical concepts.

Many first-time test-takers underestimate Core 2 topics or try to cram without enough practice. A consistent study schedule based on domain weights works better than going through materials chronologically. This helps you give proper time to each topic based on its exam importance.

Note that consistency beats cramming. Short, regular study sessions work better than occasional marathon sessions. Taking practice tests throughout your preparation helps spot knowledge gaps before they become issues on exam day.

CompTIA A+ certification creates IT career opportunities and typically brings a 10-15% salary increase. Quality study resources and dedicated preparation time will benefit you way beyond the reach of passing the exams. This guide and a strategic study approach give you everything to join certified IT professionals' ranks.