CompTIA Security+ Writing Guide
Task types, scoring criteria, and strategies to excel in the writing section.
Writing Overview
CompTIA A+ validates the skills needed to support hardware, software, networking, and troubleshooting on modern devices. It consists of two exams (Core 1: 220-1101 and Core 2: 220-1102). Required by employers like Dell, Intel, and the US Department of Defense.
Note: CompTIA Security+ does not have a dedicated writing section. This guide covers general test preparation.
High-Score Strategies
- 1.Use Professor Messer's free study guide and practice exams — they closely match real exam content.
- 2.Set up a home lab: practice installing OSes, configuring networks, and troubleshooting hardware.
- 3.Memorize port numbers: HTTP 80, HTTPS 443, SSH 22, DNS 53, SMTP 25, RDP 3389.
- 4.CompTIA's 6-step troubleshooting methodology is tested directly — know it cold.
- 5.PBQs are worth more points — do timed practice on simulation tools.
- 6.Review the official CompTIA A+ exam objectives document — every topic listed can be tested.