CompTIA Data Science Certification Beta Exam

I have 2 weeks to study for the CompTIA Data Science Certification Exam. I was accepted into the Beta exam group, so I get to take the exam before it’s available to the public and in return, I will provide feedback.

I was chosen because I have over 5 years of experience in Data Science and I have a background in Math (Bachelor’s Degree) and Data Science (Master’s Degree). So CompTIA felt like I would be qualified to take the exam and provide feedback.

There are 5 domains that the test covers:

1.0 Mathematics and Statistics (17% of exam)
2.0 Modeling, Analysis, and Outcomes (24% of exam)
3.0 Machine Learning (24% of exam)
4.0 Operations and Processes (22% of exam)
5.0 Specialized Applications of Data Science (13% of exam)

According to CompTIA, the CompTIA Data Science certification exam will certify the successful candidate has the knowledge and skills required to:

• Understand and implement data science operations and processes.
• Apply mathematical and statistical methods appropriately and understand the importance of data processing and cleaning, statistical modeling, linear algebra, and calculus concepts.
• Apply machine-learning models and understand deep-learning concepts.
• Utilize appropriate analysis and modeling methods and make justified model recommendations.
• Demonstrate understanding of industry trends and specialized data science applications.

The test is a combination of multiple-choice questions and performance-based tasks.

Study Plan for CompTIA Data Science Certification

I like to be prepared. Usually, I over-prepare. For everything. I have multiple degrees and years of work experience that would qualify me to take this exam and should indicate that I will pass it, but I need to study.

Unfortunately, I didn’t see the email inviting me to take the exam until today (July 15, 2023) and I need to take the exam by August 3, 2023. So, I need to go beyond studying…I need to cram! With certification exams, you are typically in a controlled environment and you don’t have access to search engines.

In the tech world, everyone searches for answers when they have questions–and even to validate things they already know. I am confident enough in my skills to admit that I liberally search for information on the internet while doing projects.

But this is not a project and I won’t be able to search. I need to study, deepen my understanding of concepts, fill in my knowledge gaps, and memorize.

Since there are 5 domains and I have a little over 15 days, I should be able to spend about 3 days on each domain.

My plan is to take 1 day to create a study guide and flash cards for each domain. Then I will spend 2 days quizzing myself through Quizlet or other online interview prep platforms.

I’ve taken CompTIA Sec+ and Net+ exams in the past and found that obsessive flash card studying was a key to success. Wish me Luck!