CompTIA Test Questions: Explained Most Commonly Asked Questions
Introduction:
Are you ready to start your career in IT but feeling unsure about which certifications? Don’t worry, you’re not alone.
The IT certification world can be daunting, but CompTIA is a well-known leader with vendor-neutral credentials that are accepted worldwide. Whether you’re after your first IT position or wish to prove years of expertise, it’s important to know about the types of questions asked on CompTIA exams to succeed. Let’s simplify the most frequent CompTIA test questions and make what happens on exam day a little clearer.
In this blog, we break down the most common types of CompTIA test questions, highlighting their pros, challenges, and when you’re most likely to encounter them. Whether you’re aiming for A+, Network+, or Security+, understanding the format is key. Plus, if you’re getting ready to test, don’t miss the powerful hack at the end: practice packs from Certify360 loaded with real exam-style questions that sharpen your skills and boost your pass rate.
Why Question Type Matters More Than You Think ?
Even though they have thoroughly studied the material, many test-takers still leave feeling let down. Why? Because memorization alone isn’t enough for CompTIA exams. They deal with applying knowledge in particular ways, frequently under pressure.
By understanding how CompTIA structures its questions, you’ll
- Eliminate confusion caused by tricky wording
- Save precious time during the exam
- Feel more confident when faced with unexpected formats
With Certify360’s targeted question banks, you can train for both what you’ll be asked and how you’ll be asked.
What Types of Questions Appear on CompTIA Exams?
CompTIA exams, such as the popular A+, Network+, and Security+, feature a blend of question formats to assess both your theoretical knowledge and practical skills:
- Multiple-Choice Questions: These are straightforward, presenting a question with several possible answers. You’ll select the best one based on your knowledge and the scenario provided
- Performance-Based Questions (PBQs): These are designed to test your ability to solve real-world problems in a simulated IT environment. PBQs may involve configuring systems, troubleshooting issues, or performing specific tasks using virtual machines or simulation tools.
- Drag-and-Drop Questions: You may be asked to match terms to definitions or organize processes in the correct order.
The 5 Most Common Types of CompTIA Questions
Here’s a breakdown of the main question formats you’ll likely encounter:
1. Multiple Choice (Single Answer)
This is the most straightforward type one question, multiple choices, one correct answer.
Example:Which port is used for HTTPS?
A) 80
B) 21
C) 443
D) 25
✅ Correct: C) 443
- Pro Tip: Use the process of elimination to reduce options. Even when unsure, educated guesses help.
- C360 Insight: Certify360’s A+ and Security+ packs feature 300+ multiple-choice questions modeled directly after actual CompTIA exam formats.
2. Multiple Choice (Multiple Answers)
Here, you’ll be asked to select more than one correct answer. The question usually says “Choose two” or “Select all that apply.”
Example:Which TWO options are examples of multi-factor authentication?
A) Password
B) Fingerprint
C) Security token
D) Username
✅ Correct: B and C
- Watch out: If you choose fewer or more than required, it’s marked incorrect.
- Certify360 Edge: Our multi-answer drills mimic real-world exam logic, so you master both the format and the content.
3. Performance-Based Questions (PBQs)
PBQs test your ability to solve problems in a simulated environment like configuring a firewall or assigning IP addresses.
Example scenario: You’re asked to create a secure Wi-Fi network using proper encryption settings.
- Tip: These take time, so practice managing your time as well as your technical skill.
- Practice It at Certify360: Certify360 offers dedicated PBQ modules with guided walkthroughs to prepare you for these high-impact questions.
4. Drag and Drop
These are interactive questions where you match items, categories, or steps to a process.
Example: Drag the following steps into the correct order for the troubleshooting methodology.
This question style tests your conceptual understanding, not just memorization.
- Train Visually at Certify360: Our visual drag-and-drop simulations give you the exact same feel as the live exam. Perfect for hands-on learners.
5. Fill-in-the-Blank/Typing-Based
Less common but still possible, especially within PBQs. These require you to enter a command or a value manually.
Example: Enter the command to display the current IP configuration on Windows.
✅ Correct: ipconfig
- Tip: Spelling counts! One typo can cost you the point.
- Certify360 Challenge Mode: Practice fill-in-the-blank questions in a realistic terminal environment inside our challenge packs.
Which Topics Are Most Frequently Covered?
The exact topics depend on the specific CompTIA certification, but for the A+ exam, which is often the entry point for IT professionals, the most commonly tested areas include
- Hardware: Identifying, installing, and troubleshooting PC components.
- Networking: Understanding network types, protocols, and troubleshooting connectivity issues.
- Operating Systems: Installing, configuring, and troubleshooting Windows, Linux, and macOS environments.
- Security: Recognizing common threats, securing devices, and following best practices.
- Software Troubleshooting: Resolving application and OS issues.
- Operational Procedures: Safety, professionalism, and communication best practices.
How Should You Approach CompTIA Test Questions?
Here are some practical tips to tackle CompTIA test questions with confidence:
- Look for Keywords: Many questions include key phrases that hint at the correct answer. Focus on these rather than getting distracted by extra details.
- Rephrase the Question: Restate the question in your own words to clarify what’s being asked.
- Eliminate Wrong Answers: Narrow down your choices by eliminating obviously incorrect options.
- Avoid Overthinking: Trust your preparation and avoid second-guessing unless you’re certain you made a mistake.
- Practice with Simulations: Use practice tests and simulations to get comfortable with PBQs and the exam format.
Why Some Questions Feel “Tricky”
CompTIA doesn’t include trick questions to stump you—but they do design questions to reflect real-world decision-making. That means:
- You’ll see closely related options (e.g., WPA2 vs WPA3)
- You’ll have to interpret scenario-based prompts
- You’ll need to apply knowledge quickly under time constraints
By practicing with real exam-style questions, you train your brain to recognize patterns and think like a certified tech pro.
C360 Bonus: Each question in Certify360’s practice packs comes with detailed explanations so you learn the “why,” not just the “what.”
Frequently Asked Questions About CompTIA Exams
- Can I take CompTIA exams online?
Yes, CompTIA offers online testing for all certifications using secure remote proctoring through Pearson VUE’s OnVUE platform. - Do PBQs always have only one correct answer?
Not necessarily. Some PBQs allow for multiple correct methods to achieve the desired outcome. - Is partial credit possible on PBQs?
Sometimes. Certain PBQs may award partial credit if you complete part of the task correctly, but details on scoring are confidential.
Practice Makes Certifiable
Passing a CompTIA exam is more than just a milestone; it’s your ticket into IT careers in support, networking, cybersecurity, and beyond. And while studying the content is essential, understanding how the questions are structured can make or break your exam performance.
So don’t just study harder, but study smarter.
Ready to level up?
Certify360’s expertly crafted practice packs offer:
- Realistic CompTIA-style questions
- Performance-based labs
- Instant feedback with explanations
- A track record of boosting pass rates by up to 30%
You’ve got the ambition. Let Certify360 help you make it official.
