I will probably go here short here since the majority of the information is readily accessible on the internet now.
The AWS Certified Solutions Architect Associate (AWS SAA) certification is a highly regarded credential for individuals seeking to validate their expertise in designing and deploying scalable, fault-tolerant, and cost-effective applications on Amazon Web Services (AWS) cloud infrastructure. This certification showcases your ability to make architectural decisions based on AWS best practices, understand the core AWS services, and design solutions that meet business and technical requirements.
Build Your AWS Knowledge
Ensure you have a solid foundation in AWS services and concepts. Familiarize yourself with core services such as Amazon EC2, Amazon S3, Amazon RDS, Amazon VPC, and AWS Identity and Access Management (IAM). Understand the differences between various storage options, compute instances, and networking configurations.
Explore AWS Whitepapers and Documentation
AWS offers a wealth of whitepapers and documentation that dive deep into various AWS services and architectures. Reading these resources can provide you with valuable insights into best practices and real-world implementations. Pay special attention to documents like the “Well-Architected Framework” and the “AWS Architecture Center.”
Hands-On Experience
Hands-on experience is invaluable when preparing for the SAA certification. Create an AWS account, explore the AWS Management Console, and practice creating resources, configuring security settings, and deploying applications. Building projects and experimenting with different services will help solidify your understanding of concepts. Please be careful off access key and secret access key. I suggest avoiding the storage of access keys on your computer. Instead, consider placing the key details on a thumb drive and securely burying it at a depth of six feet in a safe location. There have been alarming instances of key theft and exploitation for cryptocurrency mining or unethical hacking, resulting in substantial financial losses for companies.
Online Courses and Training
Numerous online courses and training resources are available to guide you through the preparation process. Platforms like AWS Training and Certification, Udemy, A Cloud Guru, and Coursera offer comprehensive courses specifically tailored for the SAA certification. These courses often include video lectures, hands-on labs, practice exams, and interactive quizzes.
I recommend the following Online Courses by Stephane Mareek
Udemy Ultimate AWS Certified Solutions Architect Associate SAA-C03
Also you might want to visit these courses
Cantrill AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate (SAA-C03)
Tutorial Dojo
Practice Exams
Practice exams are a crucial part of your preparation. They help you become familiar with the exam format, assess your knowledge gaps, and refine your time management skills. Resources like official AWS practice exams, third-party practice tests, and exam simulators can provide valuable insight into the types of questions you’ll encounter on the real exam.
Jon Bonso has a good set of Practice exams on AWS SAA certification
UDemy AWS Certified Solutions Architect Associate Practice Exams
Examsdigest
Create a Study Plan
Create a structured study plan that outlines your daily or weekly study goals. Allocate time for reading, hands-on practice, reviewing notes, and taking practice exams. Consistency and dedication are key to successfully preparing for the exam. Make it a habit.
Join Online Communities
Engage with the AWS community through forums, discussion boards, and social media. Participating in discussions, asking questions, and sharing your knowledge can provide you with new perspectives and insights. The AWS subreddit and the AWS Community Forums are great places to connect with fellow learners.
Review and Revise
Regularly review your notes, practice exams, and any challenging concepts you encounter. Focus on understanding the underlying principles rather than memorizing specific answers. Identify your weak areas and dedicate extra time to reinforce your understanding.
Conclusion
Earning the AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate certification requires dedication, comprehensive preparation, and a solid understanding of AWS services and architectures. By following this guide and combining hands-on experience, study resources, and practice exams, you’ll be well-equipped to succeed in the exam and demonstrate your expertise in designing scalable and reliable solutions on AWS. Remember that this certification is not just a testament to your knowledge but also a stepping stone toward a successful career in cloud architecture.
GOOD LUCK!!