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How to Pass CompTIA Security+ (SY0–701) on Your First Attempt

The CompTIA Security+ (SY0–701) exam is one of the most recognized certifications in the field of cybersecurity. It is often considered the entry-level benchmark for individuals who want to demonstrate their knowledge of fundamental security concepts and practices. Unlike some niche certifications, Security+ covers a broad range of domains, including threats, vulnerabilities, technologies, and risk management principles. For many professionals, it serves as a stepping stone into more specialized areas of cybersecurity or advanced certifications. The exam itself employs a scaled scoring system, ranging from 100 to 900, with a passing score of 750. Achieving an 806, as I did, means surpassing the minimum by a comfortable margin, though not hitting the perfect ceiling. Yet, what matters most is the journey, the discipline, and the strategies used to secure that passing score under real-world constraints. The exam is not designed to test only theoretical memory. It includes performance-based questions that replicate real-world scenarios, which you must apply our knowledge practically. This makes preparation much more than just memorization. It requires an understanding of both the concepts and the way CompTIA frames those concepts in its objectives.

My Situation Before Starting

At the time I scheduled my exam, I was balancing several major commitments. I had a full-time job with deadlines and responsibilities that often stretched beyond the usual office hours. Alongside this, I had family responsibilities that required attention and energy. These were not circumstances where I could dedicate six or eight uninterrupted hours per day to study. Instead, I often found myself fitting in study sessions during evenings or weekends, sometimes at odd hours when the house was quiet. When I first purchased the exam voucher in the last quarter of 2024, my plan was simple: begin studying consistently in January and sit for the exam before the end of March. It seemed like a neat three-month plan that would give me enough time to cover the material thoroughly while balancing life’s demands. Reality, however, was different. My weekday study goals were derailed by work deadlines, fatigue, and the unpredictable nature of raising a family. By my estimate, I stuck to about 30 percent of my planned weekday sessions. On weekends, I was more productive, but inconsistency still crept in. This meant that as the exam date drew closer, I began to realize my preparation was not aligned with the original plan. Eight days before the exam, I took a step back and reassessed. The hard truth was that I was not where I wanted to be. I decided to reschedule the exam, pushing it forward by twelve days. This decision gave me eight full days off from work, which became a period of intense and focused preparation. Looking back, rescheduling was the best choice I made. It gave me clarity, time, and the space to immerse myself fully in the exam objectives.

Exam Day Experience

Walking into the exam on test day, I felt a mixture of confidence and panic. The exam structure consisted of seventy-seven questions, including three performance-based questions. These performance-based questions were presented at the start of the exam. They required me to apply theoretical knowledge in simulated real-world situations. While I had prepared for them, the sudden demand for practical application made the initial moments stressful. About thirty questions into the exam, I found myself second-guessing my preparation. The thought that I should have delayed the exam further kept surfacing. Certain questions were framed in ways I had not anticipated, and there were moments when I felt unsure about my answers. Yet, I reminded myself to keep moving forward and not dwell too long on any single item. What I realized during this exam was that the answers CompTIA seeks are not always the ones that appear the most technically impressive. They are the answers that align with how CompTIA frames its objectives. This means understanding CompTIA’s logic, its language, and the way it structures choices. For example, in a multiple-choice question, there may be two or three answers that seem correct. The key lies in recognizing keywords in the question, such as “first,” “best,” “immediately,” or “prevent.” These words guide how CompTIA wants the candidate to prioritize solutions. By the time I reached the final question, I knew I had put forth my best effort given the circumstances. When the result flashed showing a score of 806, I felt a mix of relief and accomplishment. While not a perfect score, it validated the hard work and strategic focus that had gone into preparation despite the constraints of my life.

Lessons Learned from the Experience

One of the most significant lessons I took from this journey was the importance of understanding the exam’s logic. Too often, candidates approach the Security+ exam as if it were purely a technical challenge. While technical knowledge is essential, success lies equally in aligning that knowledge with the exam objectives and the specific way CompTIA frames questions. It is not enough to know how a firewall works or what encryption protocols exist. You must also understand how CompTIA wants you to think about the role of the firewall in risk management, or which encryption protocol is most appropriate in a given scenario based on its objectives. Another lesson was the value of realistic planning. My initial timeline assumed consistent study hours that life did not allow. Instead of clinging rigidly to that plan, I adapted when I saw the gap. Rescheduling gave me the breathing room I needed. This flexibility was crucial. I also learned the power of focused, uninterrupted study sessions. The eight full days I took off from work transformed my preparation. During those days, I could dive deep into concepts, cross-reference resources, and simulate exam conditions without distraction. Those sessions had a bigger impact on my final performance than scattered weekday evenings when I was exhausted. Lastly, I realized the importance of faith, support, and focus. Leaning on my faith gave me strength when I felt overwhelmed. Support from family and friends provided encouragement and accountability. Focus allowed me to make the most of the time I had rather than lamenting the time I did not.

Building a Smarter Study Roadmap

Reflecting on my journey, I began to think about how someone else could approach this exam and potentially outperform my score in a structured way. That reflection gave rise to a 90-day study roadmap. The key principle of this roadmap is not just studying harder but studying smarter. Studying harder implies putting in more hours. Studying smarter means aligning every hour with the exam objectives, using high-quality resources, and ensuring active engagement with the material. The roadmap is divided into three phases, each building on the previous one. In the first thirty days, the focus is on reading with purpose, building a foundation by directly aligning with the exam objectives. In the next thirty days, the focus shifts to watching and learning through structured video content that reinforces the reading. Finally, in the last thirty days, the focus is on practice and deep dives, applying knowledge through questions, simulations, and reinforcing weak areas. Each phase is designed to ensure that by the end of ninety days, a candidate not only knows the material but also knows how to think in alignment with CompTIA’s expectations. This roadmap represents the lessons I learned, combined with the adjustments I wish I had made earlier in my preparation.

Why Reading with Purpose Matters

The first thirty days of a ninety-day roadmap to pass CompTIA Security+ (SY0–701) are critical because they set the foundation for everything else. Many candidates make the mistake of rushing into practice questions or relying entirely on video lectures without first building a strong theoretical base. While videos and practice exams are valuable, they cannot replace the depth of structured reading. Reading with purpose means approaching the study material not as a passive task but as an active engagement with the exam objectives. Every sentence should be connected to the bigger picture of what the exam is testing. The reason this is so important is that the Security+ exam is broad in scope. It covers domains ranging from threat management to cryptography, risk mitigation, secure network design, identity management, and compliance. Without a strong reading phase, the later stages of practice and application will feel fragmented. The goal of the first thirty days is therefore to create a comprehensive mental framework of the entire exam domain. Once this framework is in place, additional resources like practice questions and videos will fit neatly into it rather than floating around as isolated pieces of information.

Starting with the Official Exam Objectives

The best way to begin is by downloading and thoroughly studying the exam objectives from CompTIA. These objectives are the official blueprint of what the exam covers. They outline every domain, subtopic, and concept that can appear on the test. Treating this document as your syllabus is essential. Many candidates ignore the objectives and instead follow random advice or third-party study guides without aligning their preparation with what CompTIA explicitly expects. Reading the objectives should not be a glance. Spend time analyzing how each domain is structured. Notice the verbs used in the objectives. Words like “explain,” “compare,” “implement,” or “analyze” reveal the depth of knowledge required. If the objective says “implement,” it signals a more practical, application-oriented question. If it says “compare,” expect scenario-based questions that require you to distinguish between similar technologies. Aligning your reading with these objectives ensures that every page of material you cover is purposeful. Without this alignment, it is easy to waste time memorizing concepts that may not be tested or to miss subtle distinctions that are likely to appear.

Choosing the Right Reading Material

Once the exam objectives are clear, the next step is selecting a reliable study guide. For SY0–701, one of the most comprehensive resources is the official certification guide written by industry experts. Books of this kind are structured to match the objectives directly. They explain concepts in detail, provide examples, and often include review questions at the end of each chapter. When using such a book, do not treat it as something to be skimmed. Dedicate time to reading carefully, making notes, and summarizing key ideas. The goal is not to memorize every paragraph but to internalize concepts so they can be recalled later when answering questions framed in CompTIA’s unique style. It is also beneficial to use more than one source for cross-verification. For example, if a concept like TLS versus SSL feels unclear in one book, supplement it with another explanation or even a reputable lecture. The danger of sticking to one perspective is that some nuances may not be explained in a way that resonates with you. Cross-referencing strengthens understanding and reduces gaps in knowledge.

Building a Reading Strategy

Effective reading for Security+ requires more than simply moving through chapters in sequence. It demands a structured approach. Begin each reading session with a clear objective, such as covering one subdomain from the objectives or one chapter from the guide. Before diving in, glance at the corresponding section of the exam objectives. This primes the brain to look for relevant details. As you read, actively engage with the material. Highlighting is useful, but writing down key terms, drawing diagrams, or summarizing paragraphs in your own words makes the knowledge stick more effectively. For example, when reading about types of attacks, instead of passively noting the term “SQL Injection,” write a one-line explanation of how it works and where it applies. Associating the concept with an example, such as a vulnerable login form, helps cement it in memory. After finishing a section, pause and ask yourself if you could explain the concept to someone else without referencing the text. If you can, the understanding is solid. If not, reread and clarify. This method ensures that reading time translates into long-term retention rather than temporary recognition.

Avoiding Passive Reading Pitfalls

A major risk during this phase is slipping into passive reading. Passive reading happens when you simply move your eyes across the text without truly processing the information. It can create the illusion of progress because chapters are being completed, but the knowledge is shallow and easily forgotten. One way to combat this is to adopt active recall. After each reading session, close the book and write down the main points from memory. For example, if the topic was encryption, list from memory the differences between symmetric and asymmetric encryption, key distribution challenges, and examples of algorithms. This process strengthens memory far more than rereading alone. Another pitfall is reading without context. Security concepts can feel abstract if studied in isolation. To counter this, always connect what you read with a real-world application. If the text explains a man-in-the-middle attack, visualize how it could happen on an open Wi-Fi network. By tying the concept to something tangible, you create stronger cognitive anchors that make recall easier during the exam.

Integrating Reading with Note-Taking

Notes are one of the most valuable outcomes of the reading phase. Well-organized notes serve as a personalized resource for later stages of the roadmap. Instead of relying solely on bulky textbooks, you can review concise notes to refresh your memory during practice sessions. The best notes are not copied word-for-word from the text. They are distilled explanations in your own words. For example, if the book provides a long paragraph explaining defense-in-depth, condense it into a simple line like: “Defense-in-depth = layered security controls across people, processes, and technology.” The act of rewriting in simpler terms forces you to process the information more deeply. Notes can also include diagrams. Network security concepts, for instance, are easier to understand when drawn. Sketching a firewall between an internal network and the internet clarifies how traffic flows and where controls apply. Even if you are not artistically inclined, these sketches can be powerful study aids later.

The Importance of Revisiting Material

Reading once is not enough for retention. The human brain tends to forget new information quickly if it is not revisited. That is why spaced repetition is critical during the reading phase. After finishing a chapter or domain, schedule a quick review of that material a few days later. The review does not need to be as intensive as the first reading, but should involve revisiting notes, summaries, and any diagrams you created. This reinforces memory and prevents the forgetting curve from erasing your progress. A helpful method is to create a weekly review session. At the end of each week, go back over everything you covered that week. This reinforces the concepts and highlights any areas that still feel weak. Addressing those weak areas early prevents gaps from widening as you move deeper into the material.

Managing Time During Phase One

Time management is another crucial factor during the reading phase. With thirty days dedicated to reading, consistency matters more than intensity. Studying for thirty minutes every day is more effective than trying to cram six hours once a week. Daily exposure keeps the brain engaged and prevents information from fading. A realistic schedule for someone balancing work and family might involve one hour on weekdays and two to three hours on weekends. However, the quality of those hours is more important than the quantity. A fully focused hour, free from distractions like phones or social media, can accomplish more than several scattered hours of distracted reading. It is also important to pace yourself. Security+ covers a wide range of topics, and trying to rush through everything at once can lead to burnout. Instead, break the objectives into smaller chunks and allocate time for each. For example, spend the first week focusing on threats, attacks, and vulnerabilities, then move on to technologies and tools the next week. By spreading out the material, you ensure thorough coverage without overwhelming yourself.

Mindset During the Reading Phase

Beyond techniques and strategies, mindset plays a significant role in this phase. Reading technical material can be mentally taxing, especially after a long day of work or personal responsibilities. Maintaining motivation requires a clear sense of purpose. Remind yourself that every page read and every concept understood brings you closer to passing the exam. Visualization can help here. Picture yourself on exam day recognizing a question because you studied that concept thoroughly during this phase. That sense of preparation can fuel persistence. It is also important not to compare yourself to others. Everyone’s life circumstances are different. Some may have more time, while others juggle multiple responsibilities. What matters is consistent progress relative to your starting point. Every hour invested is a step forward, even if it feels small compared to someone else’s schedule.

The Role of Visual Learning in Cybersecurity Preparation

After completing the reading phase and establishing a solid conceptual foundation, the next thirty days of the roadmap focus on watching and learning. This is not merely about passively consuming video content but about leveraging visual and auditory resources to reinforce, expand, and clarify what has already been read. Cybersecurity is a field that involves processes, flows, and interactions between systems. Visual explanations make these interactions easier to understand compared to text alone. For example, seeing a diagram of how a man-in-the-middle attack intercepts communication or watching a demonstration of a packet capture can bring the concept to life in a way that words on a page cannot. Visual learning also introduces a different rhythm of study. After weeks of reading, shifting to videos provides variety, which can help maintain motivation and prevent fatigue. Hearing different instructors explain the same concepts that you have already encountered in text allows you to view the material from new angles. Sometimes a single phrase or analogy in a video can resolve confusion that persisted despite hours of reading.

How to Approach Video Learning with Purpose

The temptation with video resources is to treat them like background noise—something to play while doing chores or relaxing. For effective exam preparation, however, video learning must be approached with purpose. Begin each session with a clear goal. For example, if the day’s topic is network security, commit to watching the relevant set of videos and actively engaging with the material. Keep your exam objectives nearby, just as in the reading phase. As you watch, connect the content of the video to the corresponding objective. If the objective says “explain common security issues related to wireless networks,” then while watching, note exactly which issues are mentioned and how they are explained. Active engagement means pausing the video when necessary to take notes, writing down keywords, or even drawing quick diagrams based on what the instructor shows. This makes the video a two-way interaction rather than a one-way stream of information.

Choosing the Right Video Resources

There are many video resources available for Security+ preparation. Some are comprehensive free series created by dedicated instructors, while others are professional courses produced by training companies. The advantage of video is that it often mirrors the structure of the exam objectives, moving systematically through domains and subdomains. When choosing a resource, ensure it is up-to-date with the SY0–701 version of the exam. Cybersecurity evolves quickly, and older content may miss new topics or emphasize outdated technologies. A well-structured video series usually begins with fundamentals before progressing to more advanced areas. For example, it might start with basic concepts of confidentiality, integrity, and availability before moving into topics like identity and access management or cryptography. Selecting a resource that aligns with your learning style is equally important. Some instructors explain concepts with detailed technical depth, while others simplify explanations with analogies. If one style feels overwhelming or unclear, supplement with another. The goal is comprehension, not loyalty to a single source.

Integrating Videos with Reading Notes

The real power of Phase Two comes from integration. Videos should not be watched in isolation but in conjunction with the notes created during the reading phase. After watching a video, revisit your notes on the same topic and add clarifications, examples, or corrections. For instance, if your reading notes on intrusion detection systems were concise but the video provided a practical example of how IDS differs from IPS in real-world traffic monitoring, expand your notes to include that example. This layered learning ensures that concepts become more three-dimensional in your mind. Where reading might provide the definition, video adds context, and notes serve as the personalized synthesis of both. Over time, your notes evolve into a refined resource that captures the essence of multiple learning modalities.

Dealing with Information Overload

A challenge during the video phase is the sheer volume of material. A comprehensive video series for Security+ can include over a hundred videos, each ranging from a few minutes to half an hour. Attempting to binge-watch large amounts in a single sitting can lead to diminishing returns. Information overload happens when the brain is presented with more than it can process at once. The best way to manage this is by breaking down videos into digestible portions. Aim for one or two major topics per session. For example, spend a session on network attacks and another on cryptographic protocols. After watching, take a short break to let the information settle. Reflection is just as important as exposure. Instead of rushing to the next video, ask yourself what you just learned and how it fits into the bigger exam framework.

The Importance of Repetition

Videos are not meant to be watched just once. Some topics are dense and require multiple exposures to fully grasp. Repetition is a natural part of learning, and revisiting videos can reinforce memory. However, repetition does not mean passively rewatching the same video. Instead, rewatch with a different purpose. On the first viewing, focus on basic comprehension. On the second, focus on identifying keywords or exam triggers. On the third, try to anticipate what the instructor will say before they say it. This kind of active repetition deepens understanding and prepares you for the way questions will be phrased on the exam.

Recognizing CompTIA’s Language in Videos

An underrated aspect of video learning is that good instructors often mirror the phrasing used in the actual exam. Security+ questions are notorious for including multiple plausible answers and relying on subtle wording to distinguish the best choice. Instructors who have experience with CompTIA exams will emphasize words like “first,” “best,” “most effective,” or “least privilege.” Pay close attention to how these words are used in explanations. Over time, you will begin to internalize CompTIA’s language. This skill becomes invaluable when facing the actual test, where success often depends on choosing not the technically correct answer in an absolute sense, but the one CompTIA expects, given its objectives.

Using Videos to Fill Knowledge Gaps

No matter how carefully you read during Phase One, some areas will remain unclear. Videos are an excellent tool for filling those gaps. If you struggled to grasp a concept such as public key infrastructure while reading, watching a visual explanation of certificate authorities, registration authorities, and key exchanges can make it click instantly. Pay attention to moments of clarity that arise while watching. When a confusing topic suddenly makes sense, capture that insight in your notes immediately. Often, it is the combination of text and visual explanation that produces true understanding.

Balancing Passive and Active Learning

While videos lend themselves to active engagement, there is still room for some passive learning. Playing cybersecurity videos in the background while doing light chores or commuting can help reinforce familiar concepts. Passive listening will not replace focused study, but can keep terminology fresh in your mind. For example, hearing repeated references to terms like SIEM, IDS, or SOC even in the background helps you grow comfortable with the language of security. The key is to balance the two. Use passive listening as supplementary exposure, but rely on active viewing for real comprehension.

Managing Time During Phase Two

Time management in the video phase requires discipline because it is easy to underestimate how long videos take to watch and process. Unlike reading, where you can skim, videos require real-time attention. Watching a ten-minute video takes at least ten minutes, often longer if you pause for notes. A realistic pace is to cover a few videos each day, aligned with your schedule. A target might be to spend an hour on weekdays and a few hours on weekends. Consistency is again more important than volume. Watching videos daily, even for shorter periods, keeps momentum and maintains continuity across topics.

Avoiding the Illusion of Mastery

A common trap in this phase is the illusion of mastery. Because videos are often engaging and well-produced, they can create the feeling of understanding without actual retention. You might nod along with the instructor, but when faced with a question, you struggle to recall details. To avoid this trap, regularly test yourself after watching. Pause the video before the answer is revealed and try to predict the outcome. After finishing a topic, close your notes and write down from memory everything you remember. If you cannot explain it in your own words, your mastery is incomplete. The point of watching is not entertainment but preparation for an exam that demands precise recall and application.

Preparing for the Transition to Practice

The ultimate purpose of Phase Two is to prepare you for Phase Three, which emphasizes practice questions and simulations. By the end of thirty days of watching and learning, you should feel that you not only recognize the terms and concepts but also understand them well enough to apply them in scenarios. The notes you create during this phase will become vital when answering practice questions. When a question confuses you later, you will return to these notes, which combine insights from both reading and videos. This layered resource will be far more valuable than raw textbooks or isolated video playlists.

The Mindset for Success in Phase Two

As with Phase One, mindset is key in this stage. Video learning can feel easier than reading, but it still requires focus and endurance. Motivation can be sustained by remembering the purpose of each video: to translate complex material into a clear understanding. Celebrate small victories. If you finally grasp the differences between symmetric and asymmetric encryption or understand how intrusion detection systems compare to intrusion prevention systems, acknowledge that as progress. Each concept mastered is another tool in your arsenal for exam day. At the same time, resist the urge to rush. Skipping ahead or fast-forwarding through topics that seem familiar can create dangerous gaps. Even if you believe you already understand a topic, watch it carefully because CompTIA often tests subtle details.

Final Push — Beating My 806 on CompTIA Security+ (SY0–701) in 90 Days

1. Recap: The Journey So Far

• Key lessons from Parts 1–3 (study strategies, resources, practice tests, time management).
  
  

• Why consistency > intensity in exam prep.
  
  

• Mindset shift: Passing is good, but aiming higher gives you mastery.
  
  

2. 90-Day Accelerator Plan (Day-by-Day Breakdown)

• Day 1–30: Foundation Phase
  
  

• Focus on exam objectives.
  
  

• Daily study routine (2–3 hours).
  
  

• Suggested reading + note-taking strategies.
  
  

• Building your “security dictionary.”
  
  

• Day 31–60: Application Phase
  
  

• Practice labs (Windows Server, Linux security tools, networking).
  
  

• Use of simulators like CompTIA Labs, TryHackMe, and HackTheBox beginner tracks.
  
  

• Focused PBQs (Performance-Based Questions) training.
  
  

• Bi-weekly practice exams to measure growth.
  
  

• Day 61–90: Mastery Phase
  
  

• High-intensity mock exams.
  
  

• Weak area targeting (tracking scores per domain).
  
  

• Memory palace + flashcard sprints.
  
  

• Final 7-day revision plan (condensed cheat sheets + rapid-fire Q&A).
  
  

3. How to Approach Performance-Based Questions (PBQs)

• Why PBQs are the “silent killers” of scores.
  
  

• Strategies:
  
  

• Identify the theme of the PBQ.
  
  

• Allocate no more than 10 minutes.
  
  

• Guess strategically when stuck and move on.
  
  

• Realistic examples of PBQ types (firewall config, risk analysis, log analysis).
  
  

4. Mental Conditioning and Exam-Day Strategy

• Sleep and nutrition for cognitive sharpness.
  
  

• How to fight test anxiety (breathing techniques, pacing, skipping hard questions).
  
  

• Time management:
  
  

• 90 minutes = 90 questions = 1 minute per question.
  
  

• But flagging and prioritizing is the real trick.
  
  

5. Beyond the Exam — Why Security+ Is Just the Beginning

• How passing Security+ builds credibility.
  
  

• How to leverage Security+ for:
  
  

• Job interviews.
  
  

• Salary negotiations.
  
  

• Transition into higher-level certs (CySA+, PenTest+, CISSP).
  
  

• Networking with professionals through LinkedIn and local cybersecurity groups.
  
  

6. My 806 vs. Your 850+ — What Separates the Two

• Where I lost points (PBQs, trick multiple-choice questions).
  
  

• What I’d do differently if starting over.
  
  

• How can you sharpen your edge to break the 850+ barrier?
  
  

7. Final Words of Motivation

• Security+ is not just a test; it’s a mindset of discipline and curiosity.
  
  

• The exam will challenge you, but with structured preparation, you can outperform even seasoned IT professionals.
  
  

• If I can do it, so can you — and in just 90 days, you could be telling your own success story with an even higher score.
  
  

Conclusion:

Earning the CompTIA Security+ certification is not just about passing an exam—it is about proving your ability to think like a cybersecurity professional. When I began my journey, I approached it as an overwhelming challenge. By the time I walked out of the testing center with an 806, I realized it had become a transformation. The process trained me to identify risks, evaluate threats, and think critically under pressure. More importantly, it showed me that with a structured plan, consistency, and discipline, anyone can achieve—or even surpass—this milestone.

We explored not only the technical domains of the SY0-701 exam but also the practical strategies that turn hours of studying into tangible results. From building a 90-day roadmap, mastering key exam objectives, practicing with realistic scenarios, and leveraging the right study resources, the path to success is clearer than ever.

The truth is, scoring well on Security+ is not about memorizing definitions. It’s about understanding how cybersecurity principles connect in real-world scenarios and being able to apply that knowledge in a time-constrained environment. If you follow the framework outlined—study smart, practice deliberately, and refine your weak spots—you will not only pass but may even push your score far beyond mine.

CompTIA SY0-701 practice test questions and answers, training course, study guide are uploaded in ETE Files format by real users. Study and Pass SY0-701 CompTIA Security+ certification exam dumps & practice test questions and answers are to help students.