My Experience with the AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate (SAA-C03/2023) Certification Examination

The Examination

In my pursuit of the AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate (SAA-C03/2023) certification, I found the experience both challenging and rewarding. The examination is conducted through the OneVue application and spans 170 minutes, giving ample time to navigate through the 65 questions presented. A noteworthy aspect of this exam is its focus on scenario-based questions, which made up approximately 85% of the total questions. These scenarios test not only your theoretical knowledge but also your practical ability to apply AWS services to solve real-world problems.

The Passing Criteria

The certification exam requires a passing mark of 72% from a total of 1000 marks. This translates to a need for solid preparation and a thorough understanding of the AWS services and their applications.

Preparation Resources

To prepare for the exam, I relied heavily on Stephen Mareek’s Udemy course. This resource was incredibly helpful in breaking down complex concepts into digestible segments. Stephen’s teaching method and the structured approach of the course made it easier to grasp the intricacies of AWS services and their best practices.

In addition to the Udemy course, I practiced extensively using questions from the Exam Topics website. This resource was invaluable in providing a wide array of practice questions that closely mirrored the format and difficulty of the actual exam. It helped in reinforcing my knowledge and identifying areas where I needed further study.

Furthermore, I found the mock exams available on Udemy by Stephen Mareek to be exceptionally beneficial. These mock exams simulated the actual test environment and helped me gauge my readiness for the real exam. They provided a clear indication of my strengths and weaknesses, allowing me to focus my studies more effectively.

Key Takeaways

1. Time Management: With 170 minutes to answer 65 questions, managing time efficiently is crucial. Prioritize questions based on your strengths and come back to the more challenging ones later.

2. Scenario-Based Questions: Since 85% of the questions are scenario-based, it is essential to practice these types of questions. They test your ability to apply AWS concepts in practical situations.

3. Study Resources: Utilizing high-quality study materials such as Stephen Mareek’s Udemy course and practicing with the Exam Topics website can significantly enhance your preparation.

4. Mock Exams: Taking mock exams, especially those by Stephen Mareek on Udemy, can simulate the real exam environment and help identify areas needing improvement.

5. Understanding Concepts: Instead of rote learning, focus on understanding the core concepts of AWS services. This understanding will help you tackle the scenario-based questions effectively.

6. Consistency: Consistent study and practice are key. Make a study plan and stick to it, ensuring that you cover all the necessary topics comprehensively.

Conclusion

Achieving the AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate (SAA-C03/2023) certification is a significant milestone for any aspiring cloud professional. The exam is rigorous but with the right preparation strategy, it is certainly attainable. Leveraging quality resources and dedicating time to practice can help you succeed and open doors to numerous opportunities in the field of cloud computing.