Mastering SAA-C03: My Top Learning Hacks

Achieving the AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Associate (SAA-C03) requires dedicated effort and strategic learning. I would like to share my learning tips and experiences to help guide you on your journey toward success based on spaced repetition. Did you know that you can have +30 minutes of exam time if you are a non-native English speaker?

0. My Well-Architected Learning Approach:

My primary sources for learning were A cloud guru (ACG) course - Anki - Tutorials Dojo practice exams - Tutorials Dojo eBook - AWS FAQs - Several Live sessions with AWS.

1. Diverse Learning Resources:

My learning journey began with the A Cloud Guru (ACG) course. I Initially made the mistake of not taking notes which I fixed in the next step with Anki's application. Moreover, when I finished the course for the first time, I realized how far I am from success. I needed good practice tests and to read a lot of documentation.

2. Active Learning through Flashcards (Brain Hack):

I decided to transform the attached course pdf with 1700 slides into a flashcard deck and use it in the Anki application. The power of spaced repetition of Anki helped me solidify my understanding of concepts. I strongly encourage you to create your flashcards. The time invested in creating them is a valuable part of the learning process. This method takes time and is not at all suitable for one-time learning a couple of days before the exam.

3. Challenge Yourself with Practice Exams:

After two months with Anki, I engaged with Tutorial Dojo's practice exams, and I must admit – they are challenging! Unlike the ACG exams which felt somewhat easy, Tutorial Dojo's practice exams pushed my knowledge boundaries. Every answer is accompanied by an in-depth explanation, including links to relevant documentation. These exams are incredibly representative of the real exam, and I highly recommend them.

4. AWS FAQs (Kindle Hack):

Delving into AWS FAQs is often underestimated but can provide significant insights. I focused on the FAQs for critical services - I created EPUB documents from these FAQs and read them on my Kindle in bed before sleeping.

5. AWS Live Sessions:

Participating in AWS Exam Readiness live sessions conducted by Senior Architects from AWS was a turning point in my preparation. These sessions offer profound insights, helping you align your study approach with the exam's expectations. The sessions provide clarity on what to focus on and share real-world perspectives from industry experts.

6. Hands-on Learning with AWS Jam:

The AWS Jam session I attended was an enjoyable experience. Collaboratively solving real-world scenarios with fellow learners not only reinforced concepts but also facilitated practical application. If you have the opportunity to attend an AWS Jam, seize it – it’s really fun.

7. Requesting Additional Time (Time Hack)

For non-native English speakers, an additional 30 minutes can make a substantial difference. If English is your second language, I recommend requesting the "ESL +30" extension for the exam. This extension provides extra time and can be immensely helpful. This was extremely helpful.

How to request an additional 30 minutes:

A 30-minute exam extension is available upon request to non-native English speakers when taking an exam in English. The accommodation, “ESL +30,” only needs to be requested once, before registering for an exam. It will apply to all future exam registrations with all test delivery providers. To request this accommodation, follow these steps:

1. Sign in to aws.training/Certification.

2. Select the Go to your Account button.

3. Select the Request Exam Accommodations button, followed by Request Accommodation.

4. Using the Accommodation Type dropdown, select ESL +30 MINUTES.

5. Select the Create button.

Wishing you all the best on your journey to becoming an AWS Certified Solutions Architect!

Warm regards,

Matej