Terraform has become an essential infrastructure as code (IaC) tool for automating and managing cloud and on-premises infrastructure. As Terraform‘s popularity grows, so does demand for Terraform professionals. Earning the HashiCorp Terraform Certified Associate certification can help IT professionals demonstrate Terraform skills and stand out to employers.
However, successfully passing the exam requires thoughtful preparation. There is no one-size-fits-all approach – the best resources depend on your learning style, budget and experience level.
This comprehensive guide compares 12+ Terraform certification exam study materials across various formats, including free and paid training courses, video tutorials, practice exams, study groups and more. Read on for an in-depth look at the available options with key features, pricing, pros and cons of each. Whether you‘re a complete beginner or advanced Terraform practitioner, you‘re sure to find the ideal resources here to help you cement skills and confidently pass the exam.
Why Get Terraform Certified?
Before diving into the preparation options, let‘s quickly recap why Terraform certification is valuable for IT career growth:
- Meet Growing Employer Demand: Research shows strong interest from employers seeking cloud engineers with Terraform skills. Certification proves hands-on abilities.
- Higher Salaries: Certified professionals can command a 10-15% higher salary on average compared to uncertified peers with similar experience.
- Career Advancement and Improved Job Mobility: Certification adds credentials and often leads to promotions. It also enables switching jobs/careers more easily.
- Enhanced Skills and Confidence Using Terraform: Preparing for the certification bolsters practical abilities to effectively leverage Terraform in real-world infrastructure projects.
- Industry Recognition of Skills: Over 25,000 professionals have earned this credential worldwide so far. It‘s become respected as a leading benchmark for Terraform expertise.
Now that you‘re motivated and understand the key benefits, let‘s explore preparation options…
Free Terraform Exam Study Resources
Free resources, while sometimes more limited in scope, can still take you quite far in your certification journey while allowing you to save money. I recommend starting here, especially for Terraform beginners, and supplementing with paid materials as needed.
1. HashiCorp Learn
HashiCorp, the creators of Terraform, offer their well-regarded HashiCorp Learn platform with a free Terraform Associate exam study guide.
Key Features
- Optimized Terraform tutorial list/order for exam prep created by HashiCorp experts
- Covers all key topic areas – IaC concepts through managing infrastructure
- Focused specifically on the 0.14 version of Terraform tested on the exam
- Includes beginner through advanced tutorials
While perhaps lighter overall compared to paid courses, this is still an invaluable free resource directly from the source – HashiCorp themselves. The tutorials breakdown complex Terraform concepts making them more beginner-friendly. I recommend using HashiCorp Learn as your foundational study guide.
2. Medium Terraform Practice Questions
Once you have a core understanding of Terraform from HashiCorp‘s tutorials, it‘s smart to test knowledge and identify gaps.
This Medium article compiled by Terraform expert Bhargav Bachina delivers with 250 free Terraform Associate practice questions and detailed explanations.
Why It‘s Valuable
- Covers a wide range of topics – modules, state, CLI workflow, Terraform Cloud and more
- Questions increase in difficulty mirrored to actual exam
- Code samples and diagrams provide context
I love how the practice questions get progressively more challenging. They expose areas for additional studying. Use these to supplement HashiCorp‘s tutorials and establish exam readiness.
So in summary for budget-friendly Terraform exam prep, first thoroughly work through HashiCorp‘s study guide. Then apply learnings with the Medium practice questions to test knowledge. That combination offers fantastic preparation without paying.
Next let‘s shift our attention to paid Terraform certification training for those seeking more formal courses…
Paid Terraform Certification Exam Study Courses
While costlier, paid materials provide structure plus access to subject matter experts guiding you through an optimized Terraform learning path for exam success. For hands-on learners who can invest, paid training delivers immense value.
3. Learnpub‘s Exam Preparation eBook
Learnpub offers a $20 Terraform exam prep ebook reliably used by over 650 certification hopefuls.
Why Choose Learnpub:
- All objectives mapped to easy-to-digest chapters
- Real-world tips and sample code provided
- Covers latest Terraform 0.14 exam version
- Cost-effective (especially compared to instructor-led training)
I love how this eBook breaks the rather lengthy official exam objectives down into manageable chapters making them less intimidating. Readers praise how example-rich the content remains easy to absorb. At just over 100 pages, it‘s very focused helping you avoid information overload.
Consider Learnpub‘s prep guide your Terraform certification "textbook". For just $20 it packs an impressive amount of helpful study material in a format readable offline across devices.
4. Whizlabs Practice Exams
Whizlabs takes practice tests to the next level for $7.98. Featuring:
- 240 questions across 3 full exam simulations
- 5 hands-on Terraform labs for practical experience
- Questions frequently updated by Terraform experts
Whizlab‘s exams mimic real credential testing software helping ease exam day nerves. The question wording and format challenges you to think critically under pressure, like the actual certification.
Their unique hands-on labs deserve highlighting. Applying Terraform first-hand through guided simulations cements learning and builds tangible skills validated by employers. This takes your preparation further than answering multiple choice questions alone.
5. A Cloud Guru Video Course and Labs
For Certification prep combining visual learning with hands-on Terraform practice, A Cloud Guru has you covered. Their well-reviewed training includes:
- 8 interactive labs guides mimicking real-world Terraform usage
- Over 11 hours of video lessons to reinforce concepts
- Quizzes testing knowledge gained
A Cloud Guru is perfect if you prefer learning via video over textbooks. Top-notch instructors explain the why behind Terraform functionality – not just the what. The key hands-on practice differentiates these materials from lower cost video-only courses on this topic.
So in summary Whizlabs and A Cloud Guru stand at as your best comprehensive paid training options for deeper preparation. Start with Learnpub‘s full curriculum fundamentals eBook first. Then utilize focused practice exams plus engaging video and labs afterwards from Whizlabs and A Cloud Guru.
That 3-step learn, practice, apply model works brilliantly from cost and preparation effectiveness standpoints!
Next let‘s explore free and paid specialized Terraform exam study aids by category…
Additional Terraform Exam Prep Resources
Beyond full training, dedicated Terraform certification supplements target sharpening or refreshing specific skill areas. These remain extremely helpful when integrated into an overall study plan.
Youtube Crash Courses
Free Terraform video tutorials on Youtube act as quick refreshers consolidating key takeaways:
- IBM Technology Channel: 3 Hour Terraform Associate Crash Course
- Warp Training: 155 focused video lessons for $9.97
When short on study time, it‘s easier to watch an expert explain Terraform fundamentals visually rather than reading through extensive documentation alone. Treat video lessons as exam "cramming" to boost weak areas.
Practice Exams
Paid practice question banks reinforce knowledge and condition your mindset for certification testing:
Think test anxiety on exam day from guessing incorrectly will trip you up? These test banks familiarize through exposure helping build confidence. Multiple timed full-exam simulations in a testing interface prepares you for the real HashiCorp certification software.
Terraform Study Groups
Don‘t underestimate networking with peers as an excellent free study resource:
- Terraform Associate Exam Linkedin Group: Compare notes and experiences with 1,800+ members also prepping for the certification globally. Ask questions or start study discussions.
- HashiCorp Slack Community: Chat in real-time with Terraform experts about the associate exam or other HashiCorp tools in an active community of over 9,000 cloud engineers.
Some learn best solo, but others appreciate group accountability, advice and perspective. These study groups motivate you while allowing benchmarking against others on the same Terraform certification journey.
Last Minute Revision Notes
When exam day is looming, revision notes provide quick facts without needing to reread full textbooks:
- Shrikant‘s Google Doc Notes: 2-page bulleted Terraform fundamentals refresher
- Rishab‘s Github Page: Key concepts and syntax examples
These condensed Terraform overviews act like traditional "cheat sheets". When short on preparation time, they provide crucial reminders of concepts likely tested without overloading. Reference leading up to the exam whenever needed.
Comparing Paid vs. Free Terraform Exam Prep
Below I‘ve summarized the core differentiators of paid vs free Terraform certification preparation:
| Free | Paid | |
|---|---|---|
| Time Investment | Self-driven without set pace | Structured schedules and deadlines |
| Instruction Method | Independent learning | Expert-led |
| Content Depth/Breadth | Foundational with limited advanced topics | Comprehensive across beginner to advanced |
| Practice Testing | Limited exams mimicking real testing environment | Extremely realistic exam rehearsals |
| Interactive Learning | Mostly reading, some videos | Engaging mix of video, flashcards, labs and more |
| Continual Improvement | Generally static content | Frequent content updates as technologies evolve |
| Budget | $0 upfront cost | $10-$20 on average for quality paid materials |
| Scholarships Available | Rare | Some providers offer full or partial sponsored slots based on need and community/diversity commitment |
This comparison shows paid resources lead in several categories like interactivity, realism and depth that accelerate exam readiness. But fantastic free options still abundantly exist.
My guidance? Initiate preparation using high quality free resources, then assess skill gaps for areas you struggle with. Invest in paid training targeting those opportunities areas specifically for the extra edge towards exam success.
That optimized strategy minimizes overall paid costs while play to the unique strengths of both models based on your personal learning preferences.
Study Tips from Terraform Certification Students
I interviewed IT professionals currently prepping for their Terraform Associate certification exam who generously shared advice:
"Focus on the recommended study guide from HashiCorp first as an outline for what to really understand. Then use Udemy‘s realistic practice tests to apply that knowledge under timed pressure like the actual exam." – Maria S.
"Don‘t just memorize commands and syntax from documentation. Make sure to spin up Terraform and experiment with adjustments on sample projects. Getting practical experience instead of only taking notes from a book or video makes concepts stick better when testing." – Omar A.
"Study everyday for consistency retaining details instead of cramming everything the night before your exam. Break objectives into chunks tracking progress to avoid feeling overwhelmed." – Sarah L.
The key takeaways emphasize not only learning Terraform functionality, but also physically working within a Terraform environment yourself to reinforce skills needed to pass this performance-based exam. Simulate the exam day experience repeatedly.
Proposed 12 Week Terraform Certification Study Roadmap
Below outlines a blueprint to prepare for the HashiCorp Certified Terraform Associate exam over a 12 week timeframe:
Weeks 1-2:
- Establish core Terraform understanding via HashiCorp Learn tutorials
- Read Learnpub‘s full exam curriculum eBook
Weeks 3-5:
- Watch A Cloud Guru video course for visual learning
- Strengthen skills applying concepts in Whizlabs hands-on labs
Weeks 6-8:
- Take Udemy practice exams identifying gaps
- Join LinkedIn study group for peer questions
Weeks 9-10:
- Retake Whizlabs simulated exams after improving weaknesses
- Watch Warp Training video crash course refresher
Weeks 11-12:
- Final practice tests to cement knowledge
- Review Rishab‘s Github page revision notes
Adjust course materials as helpful based on your learning style, background and budget. But structure a strategic study plan mapping to the official exam objectives avoiding ineffective random preparation.
Choosing the Best Terraform Certification Prep for Your Needs
With so many options, selecting ideal materials may feel overwhelming initially. Simplify the decision using this 5-step process:
1) Confirm your current Terraform skill level (beginner, intermediate etc)
2) Set your total preparation budget (free, $100 or higher)
3) Determine your preferred learning styles (reading, video, hands-on labs)
4) Research format(s) best aligned from the earlier sections
5) Construct a personalized Terraform exam prep syllabus blending complementary resources identified above
Everyone learns differently with unique objectives. Having awareness of your situation and qualities allows thoughtfully narrowing selections suiting you best.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Preparing for the Terraform Associate certification exam opens careers to infrastructure automation and cloud success. This deep dive covered 12+ free and paid specialized resources supporting exam readiness no matter your learning preferences or budget.
Here are final recommended steps:
- Bookmark this guide‘s top picks aligned to your learning style for easy future reference
- Schedule exam prep blocks on your calendar prioritizing HashiCorp content first
- Simulate testing conditions early and often for skills application
- Network with peer groups to collaborate resolving knowledge gaps uncovered
- Relax remembering thousands pass this exam every year with thoughtful preparation utilizing these resources
You‘ve got this! Here‘s to earning your HashiCorp Certified Terraform Associate certification and advancing your career in infrastructure automation.
