Preparing for a VMware Certification

Decide which VMware certification you would like to pursue.

If you do not already have an account create one.

Download the exam blueprint. Let me repeat that: Download the exam blueprint. And READ it. This is your guide of what you need to know to pass the exam. Having taken a number of VMware exams now I can tell you that they pretty much always follow the blueprint, occasionally with a couple of logical additions as well.

Download the documentation. The blueprint tells you which documents cover each section. You will sometimes need more information. There are a lot of excellent blogs, books, and training videos out there. Check my blogroll and bookshelf to get started.

Setup a lab and practice. Do the tasks described in the blueprint. Then do them again. Pay attention to the screens, the text, error messages when things do not work (then figure out what you did wrong), and get comfortable with the process. Intentionally do things wrong. See what happens. Then figure out how to fix it.

Find some practice questions and go through them to get comfortable with testing. If you can find a friend or coworker, preferably with VMware knowledge, to quiz you. Join your local VMware User Group and see if they have a study group for the certification you are preparing for. If not, offer to start one. Learn from each other and with each other.

When you think you've done enough studying, go back to the blueprint and make sure that you are comfortable with all the topics. If not review the areas where your knowledge might be lighter.

Schedule your exam with a Pearson Vue test center. (And check to see if your boss/employer will reimburse you and what the conditions are).

Review again while you wait for game day.

Sit the exam.

Pass the exam.

Wait 6 weeks or so for your transcript to be update and for your certificate to arrive in the mail.