Aside from being dedicated and disciplined, effectively preparing for a Python certification involves knowing three things:
In this blog, we will tell you exactly where to start your preparations and what steps to follow so you do not get lost and overwhelmed during your journey.
Note: This blog only focuses on Python Institute's PCEP and PCAP – the most-recognized Python certifications. To explore other Python certifications, read our blog about Python Certification Courses.
To ensure your preparations go smoothly, we recommend you follow these steps in order – do not skip any of them. We also encourage you to use the mentioned resources as best you can to get the most out of your effort.
The first step in preparing for any certification is to know what the test will be like. Going in blind and hoping things somehow work out is a surefire way to get overwhelmed.
So, you should first review the details of your certification exam. This includes the test format, structure, syllabus, duration, number of questions, etc.
Knowing these will help you manage your time properly and plan what concepts to focus on.
You can review the PCEP certification's test format and syllabus through these resources.
If you are not confident about Python basics, you should learn and revise these fundamental concepts to prepare effectively.
The most effective way of doing this is to first learn/reacquaint yourself with the concepts and write code yourself, then solve coding challenges of increasing difficulty, and finally, build projects.
If you are just starting out and need a beginner-friendly resource or are just looking to revise, our Learn Python Basics course is perfect for you. It covers all Python fundamentals and requires you to write code from the first lesson.
You can also skip chapters and focus only on topics you find difficult. You do not have to complete the entire course to get the most out of it.
After learning and revising Python, you need to check if you are ready for the test. You can do this in two ways: solving coding challenges and taking mock tests.
You can use our Python Basics Challenges to see if you have a good grasp of the fundamentals — this flows in nicely after the Learn Python Basics course and checks your knowledge about the concepts you learned in the course.
Or, you can also use coding challenge platforms, like our Community Challenges or LeetCode, to test how good you are.
After that, you can start taking mock tests. Even though not compulsory, mock tests allow you to:
Joining study groups and communities provides a valuable platform to discuss challenging topics, clarify doubts, and practice coding together.
Engaging with students who have already passed the Python certification can provide guidance and valuable insights, such as exam strategies and study tips.
It also helps you stay motivated and accountable to each other while learning.
Now that you know the steps to prepare for a certification test, let's go through a few tips that will help you prepare more quickly and efficiently.
Practice, Practice, Practice
Repetition is key in coding. You must practice coding daily – even if only for 30 minutes – to improve your skills, logical thinking, and muscle memory.
Our Python Coding Challenges should help you get those reps in – it contains all kinds of challenges that you will need to ace the certification test.
Learn Python best practices
Even though following the best practices is not a must to pass the certification exam, it will definitely help you in the long run.
Some of the best practices you can follow as a beginner are:
Set clear goals
Setting clear goals with fixed deadlines will help you with the following:
For example, you can try learning data types and control flows in two weeks, and start learning functions the next week.
If you follow the steps and tips given above, your preparations for Python certification should be fairly straightforward.
The important thing is not to give up. Take a break, seek some help, and try to approach a difficult concept from a different perspective.
If you are just starting out, use our Learn Python Basics course and build a solid foundation in Python programming.
