About This Study Plan
This 90-day study plan breaks the APLUS2 (A+ Core 2) exam preparation into 3 focused study sessions with 12 actionable tasks. The plan covers all 4 exam domains — Operating Systems, Security, Software Troubleshooting, Operational Procedures — ensuring complete coverage. Comprehensive 90-day plan for CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1202).
Prerequisites
- Basic computer literacy
- 1–2 hours per day
Study Schedule
- Weeks 1–2: Windows 10/11 features, editions, installation, and configuration
- Week 3: Windows admin tools, command line, PowerShell, and registry
- Week 4: Linux basics, macOS, and mobile operating systems
- End of month: OS quiz and command-line practice
- Week 5: Threat landscape — malware, social engineering, physical threats
- Week 6: Security controls — encryption, firewalls, MDM, wireless security
- Week 7: Windows troubleshooting — boot issues, performance, recovery tools
- Week 8: Application and browser troubleshooting, mobile device issues
- Week 9: Change management, documentation, disaster recovery, scripting
- Week 10: PBQ practice — simulated scenarios for OS and security
- Week 11: Full practice exam #1 + comprehensive review
- Week 12: Practice exam #2, flashcards, and final prep
Study Tips
Set up a Windows VM to practice troubleshooting and admin tools.
Security and OS are equal weight — balance study time between them.
Practice PBQs with simulations — Core 2 PBQs often involve OS configuration.
Recommended CompTIA Study Resources
Supplement this study plan with the official CompTIA CertMaster labs and practice tests. Download the free exam objectives PDF from CompTIA's website and use it as a checklist — cross off each objective as you master it. Professor Messer's free video series covers every CompTIA exam objective and is widely regarded as one of the best free resources available.
Ready to Practice?
Put your study plan into action with A+ Core 2 practice questions.