With open source talent being more in-demand than ever, open source certifications are also proving to be more valuable and even necessary. To meet the requirements of employers, developers need the right open source skills and expertise, and these often necessitate certifications.
To put it simply, certifications matter- now more than ever. And like anything worth getting, they will take some hard work to get.
The process of getting open source-certified entails taking an exam. But unlike the exams most of us are used to where the answers are placed right in front of you, most open source certifications are performance-based, meaning you have to demonstrate your skills from the command line. This can be a lot more challenging, and thus require more preparation.
Preparing for Certification Exams
Proper preparation can go a long way to helping you get your desired certification. On that note, here are some steps you can follow to help better prepare you for your open source certification exams:
- Choose the right certification for you. There are several out there and choosing the right one depends on what your exact goals are and what is relevant to your current area of expertise. Usually there are no prerequisites, though it would be wise to choose a certification that isn’t completely outside of your current skill set or knowledge base. Make sure you look up what certifications would best suit you and your objectives, be it a promotion, a new job or a switch to your preferred field.
- Set a date and stick to it. Some exam takers have the bad habit of changing their minds at the last minute, and deciding to take the exams “next time”. You need to be fully invested, committed and determined to take the exam so you can focus and prepare accordingly. If you’re going to take certification exams, be certain about the date when you want to take it, and follow through.
- Take a look at the online exam descriptions to see what areas, domains or competencies you need to focus or work on. Some exam takers have really deep skills in some areas but light in others, which can be their downfall in exams. By knowing what knowledge areas are covered in the exam you’ll know exactly with which areas you still need more training, and get the additional help or training you need.
- Take advantage of study resources, and get help wherever you can. There are plenty of articles and other study resources online to help you. There are even classes that can guide you on how to interpret questions, how to work specific software, how to sort through loads of information and study the material, and many others.
- Practice, practice, practice. Since these exams are performance-based, getting hands-on experience beforehand is a must. Relevant online training and instructor-led classes offered by a training center could definitely get you the hands-on training you need.
What other tips and steps have helped you prepare for certification exams? Sound off in the comments section below.