Why Some People Never Pass Their CCNA

I think some people don't actually realise how hard it is
to pass the CCNA, even if you are already in the IT
industry.

As a ballpark figure, I would say that you need to study
for about 2 hours per day for about 4-6 weeks if you want
to pass your CCNA. I have seen people do it in less time
than that but that seems to be about the average.

If you skip study days or do less than 2 hours per day
then of course it may take longer. If you take on extra
projects at work or go on a holiday then you are going
to have to study for several more weeks.

I suggest that, when you decide to pass the CCNA or
CCENT exam (and I mean seriously decide as opposed to
saying 'I will give it a shot') that you clear your
diary for the next 6 weeks of holidays or any major
life events such as moving house, redecorating etc.

I have had a large number of former students contact
me up to 2 years after the attended my CCNA weekend
boot camp telling me that they got distracted after
the course and now they have to learn all the new
material as well as refresh what they learned previously.

It is sad to hear but no surprise. Those students I see
pass the exam in 4-6 weeks are the ones who are prepared
to dedicate time and effort into self improvement. You
don't hear them repeating the tired old excuses including
the all time greats:

1. But i've been busy
2. Work projects have taken all my time
3. My wife/kids/dog/cat won't let me
4. I went on holiday (err..for 2 years)
5. I was ill (it must have caused amnesia)
6. I got married

and so on...

As a CCNA you will be paid more than most other IT
engineers. The price is to put aside about 6 weeks of your
life and put 1 hour in each morning and 1 hour each evening.
That is it. If there is any secret it is consistency. You
don't need previous experience and you don't need to be
that clever, lord knows i'm not.

Decide now if you are going to be serious about your CCNA
studies. If it is a bad time for you then put it aside
until you have a clear mind and a clear diary.

I am telling you this, not to sound negative but because
I want you to pass and not take years in the process.

All the best

Paul