Completing CLF-C02 (Finally)

Overview

Finally, after 6 years of experience using AWS, GCP, and a sprinkling of Azure, I’ve completed the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner exam. With job swaps, loads of projects, and general life bits, I’ve finally gotten around to completing it.

With my experience using many different services on AWS, GCP, and Azure, I thought it was probably a good time to put pen to paper and get the certification. This won’t be the only certification I’ll be getting; next will be the AWS Certified Developer - Associate. And then, who knows?

Preparation

I prepared for this certification last year but for the old specification (CLF-C01). I didn’t end up taking the exam as I was busy with other things. When I picked this back up a month ago, I found out that the certification had changed to CLF-C02. With a quick refresh, I felt ready to go.

I used the following resources to prepare:

• AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner Training Notes
• AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner Practice Tests

Whilst I have used online resources and courses in the past, for myself, a distraction free resource like a book is the best way for me to learn. It’s an “traditional” way of learning, but it works.

Exam

The exam itself was pretty straightforward—online and proctored. My only advice would be to give yourself plenty of time to prepare for the exam itself. Check-in time was at 19:15 and started at 19:45. However, due to the number of people taking the exam, I didn’t start until 20:25 as I was in a queue. This is something to consider.

The exam itself is:

• 65 questions to answer.
• 90 minutes to complete.
• Multiple choice questions.
• Few curveball questions as you’d expect

I finished in around 20 minutes. With this particular exam, it provides you with a pass/fail result at the end.

Conclusion

Overall, a straightforward exam that provides a comprehensive overview of AWS services. I’d recommend this certification to anyone who is looking to get into cloud computing or is seeking certification to back up their experience.

My advice, especially if you’re new to cloud computing, is to get some hands-on experience with the services. AWS provides a free tier for 12 months, which is more than enough time to get some practical experience with the services. It’s all good knowing the theory, but practical experience is key.