100-890 Exam Training Course Study Plan
This study plan incorporates clear objectives, detailed tasks, and effective learning methods like the Pomodoro Technique and Ebbinghaus Forgetting Curve to maximize retention. The plan spans 8 weeks, covering all Cisco 100-890 exam topics step-by-step, with practical tasks to ensure real-world proficiency.
Study Framework
- Pomodoro Technique:
- Study in 25-minute sessions (Pomodoros) with 5-minute breaks.
- After 4 Pomodoros, take a longer 15–30 minute break to recharge.
- Ebbinghaus Forgetting Curve:
- Schedule reviews at intervals: 1-day, 3-day, 1-week, and 2-week after the initial study session.
- Weekly Goals:
- Divide topics into weekly focus areas, ensuring incremental progress.
- Practice-Oriented Learning:
- Incorporate real-world tasks like configuring devices, troubleshooting, and reviewing case studies.
Study Plan Overview
Week 1: Networking Fundamentals (Collaboration Environment)
Week 2: Collaboration Environment Components
Week 3: Cisco Collaboration Endpoints (Devices and Hardware)
Week 4: Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Weeks 5–6: Advanced Topics and Service Knowledge
Weeks 7–8: Consolidation and Exam Simulation
Detailed Weekly Plan
Week 1: Networking Fundamentals
Goal: Build foundational knowledge of collaboration networking protocols and infrastructure.
| Day | Tasks | Pomodoros | Methodology |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Understand SIP and RTP/RTCP Protocols: - Study the basics of SIP (how it initiates, manages, and ends sessions). - Write down SIP message types (INVITE, ACK, BYE) and create real-world call scenarios. - Research RTP/RTCP for media transport, noting how it ensures real-time delivery. |
4 (2 hrs) | Use diagrams and flowcharts to visualize call flows. |
| Day 2 | TCP/UDP and Network Protocol Roles: - Study when TCP (reliable) vs. UDP (fast) is used in collaboration devices. - Write down differences with examples like SIP signaling (TCP) and RTP streaming (UDP). |
3 (1.5 hrs) | Create a comparison chart. |
| Day 3 | DHCP/TFTP Workflow: - Study how devices acquire IP addresses using DHCP. - Create a step-by-step guide showing how TFTP transfers configuration files to a device (e.g., an IP phone). |
3 (1.5 hrs) | Draw a workflow diagram for DHCP/TFTP. |
| Day 4 | VLANs and QoS for Voice/Video Traffic: - Learn how VLANs separate traffic for voice and data. - Study QoS principles: marking and prioritizing voice packets (DSCP values). - Write example QoS commands for routers/switches. |
4 (2 hrs) | Practice QoS questions and VLAN configuration examples. |
| Day 5 | Firewalls and NAT: - Understand the impact of firewalls and NAT on SIP/RTP traffic. - Research NAT traversal techniques like STUN and TURN. - Write scenarios where NAT affects collaboration devices and possible solutions. |
3 (1.5 hrs) | Summarize key NAT traversal tools. |
| Day 6 | Spaced Review: - Revisit all topics from Week 1 using flashcards and practice questions. Test yourself on DHCP, TFTP, VLAN, and QoS concepts. |
3 (1.5 hrs) | Use flashcards and quick quizzes. |
| Day 7 | Rest and prepare for Week 2. | - | Reflect on Week 1 progress. |
Week 2: Collaboration Environment Components
Goal: Develop expertise in CUCM, Cisco Expressway, and media resource management.
| Day | Tasks | Pomodoros | Methodology |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Study CUCM Basics: - Learn CUCM’s role in managing devices and routing calls. - Write down steps for registering a phone to CUCM, including device names and MAC addresses. |
4 (2 hrs) | Create step-by-step registration notes. |
| Day 2 | Understand Cisco Expressway: - Learn Expressway-E (external) and Expressway-C (internal) features. - Write use cases for enabling remote workers via VPN-less access. - Create a comparison table of CUCM vs. Expressway. |
3 (1.5 hrs) | Use flowcharts for remote connection processes. |
| Day 3 | Explore Media Resources: - Research MTP (Media Termination Point), conferencing bridges, and voice gateways. - Write down examples of scenarios using these media resources. |
3 (1.5 hrs) | Solve media resource scenario-based problems. |
| Day 4 | Device Integration: - Study how CUCM integrates with other Cisco collaboration components like Expressway and media resources. - Solve integration-related practice questions. |
4 (2 hrs) | Use diagrams to illustrate integrations. |
| Day 5 | Practice CUCM Tasks: - Write a detailed configuration example for adding and managing devices in CUCM. |
3 (1.5 hrs) | Test CUCM configuration steps using guides. |
| Day 6 | Spaced Review: - Review CUCM, Expressway, and media resource topics. Write down questions you still have and address them. |
3 (1.5 hrs) | Use flashcards and group discussions. |
| Day 7 | Rest and reflect on Week 2. | - | Summarize and plan for Week 3. |
Week 3: Collaboration Endpoints (Devices and Hardware)
Goal: Identify and configure Cisco devices (phones, video systems, peripherals).
| Day | Tasks | Pomodoros | Methodology |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | IP Phones (7800/8800 Series): - Study key features and components (buttons, screens, interfaces). - Draw a labeled diagram of a Cisco IP phone. - Research PoE vs. external power usage. |
4 (2 hrs) | Test knowledge by labeling diagrams. |
| Day 2 | Webex Room Kits and TelePresence: - Learn the differences between Room Kit, Room Kit Mini, and TelePresence devices. - Create a comparison chart of features and use cases. |
3 (1.5 hrs) | Practice device matching exercises. |
| Day 3 | Peripheral Devices: - Study how to connect and configure cameras, microphones, and speakers. - Write down setup steps for Cisco Touch 10 controllers. |
3 (1.5 hrs) | Test setup knowledge by explaining it aloud. |
| Day 4 | Practice Configurations: - Write and simulate CLI/GUI commands for registering devices and enabling features. |
4 (2 hrs) | Use online configuration labs. |
| Day 5 | Solve Practice Problems: - Work on configuration scenarios for IP phones, video systems, and peripherals. |
3 (1.5 hrs) | Review scenarios step-by-step. |
| Day 6 | Spaced Review: - Consolidate Week 3 topics using flashcards and diagram-based reviews. |
3 (1.5 hrs) | Repeat tricky concepts. |
| Day 7 | Rest and prepare for Week 4. | - | Reflect on progress. |
Week 4: Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Goal: Master the skills required to maintain Cisco devices and troubleshoot common issues effectively.
| Day | Tasks | Pomodoros | Methodology |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Factory Reset Processes: - Study the steps for performing factory resets on IP phones and video systems. - Document device-specific reset methods for reference (e.g., button combinations, CLI commands). |
4 (2 hrs) | Practice reset steps on lab devices or simulations. |
| Day 2 | Restoring Configurations: - Learn how to reload configuration files after resets using CUCM or local TFTP servers. - Write a checklist for verifying successful restoration (e.g., device registration, call functionality). |
3 (1.5 hrs) | Simulate restoring configurations on a test setup. |
| Day 3 | Common Troubleshooting Scenarios: - Research typical issues like power failures, unresponsive devices, and poor call quality. - Write down step-by-step troubleshooting workflows. |
3 (1.5 hrs) | Solve practice problems related to these scenarios. |
| Day 4 | Firmware Updates: - Study how to update firmware using TFTP or HTTP servers. - Write a detailed guide including prerequisites (e.g., server setup, compatibility checks). |
4 (2 hrs) | Test firmware updates using labs or simulations. |
| Day 5 | CLI Troubleshooting Commands: - Practice essential commands ( ping, traceroute, show running-config) for diagnosing network and device issues. |
3 (1.5 hrs) | Use mock scenarios to practice CLI usage. |
| Day 6 | Spaced Review: - Revisit all maintenance and troubleshooting topics. - Test your knowledge using flashcards and scenarios from previous days. |
3 (1.5 hrs) | Focus on areas needing improvement. |
| Day 7 | Rest and assess readiness for Week 5. | - | Reflect on what worked well. |
Week 5: Cisco Service Knowledge
Goal: Understand Cisco warranty policies, the RMA process, and TAC usage. Learn configuration backups and basic log file analysis.
| Day | Tasks | Pomodoros | Methodology |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Cisco Warranty Policies: - Study Cisco's warranty structure and the duration of coverage for different devices. - Write down how to use the serial number lookup tool to verify a device’s warranty. |
3 (1.5 hrs) | Create a step-by-step guide. |
| Day 2 | RMA Process: - Research the process of initiating an RMA for defective devices. - Document RMA requirements (serial number, warranty status, issue description) and flow (case submission, shipping, replacement). |
3 (1.5 hrs) | Use a flowchart to visualize the process. |
| Day 3 | Using Cisco TAC: - Explore the Cisco TAC (Technical Assistance Center) portal. - Write detailed notes on how to submit a support case and prioritize issues by severity levels. |
3 (1.5 hrs) | Explore the TAC portal interface. |
| Day 4 | Configuration Backups: - Learn how to back up device configurations to TFTP/FTP servers. - Write a backup checklist (e.g., file locations, naming conventions). |
4 (2 hrs) | Practice backup tasks in a lab environment. |
| Day 5 | Importing and Restoring Configurations: - Study how to import configurations to a new or replaced device. - Write down a recovery procedure for restoring settings post-reset or replacement. |
3 (1.5 hrs) | Test the process on simulated devices. |
| Day 6 | Spaced Review: - Summarize all Week 5 topics into a single document. - Use flashcards to quiz yourself on warranty/RMA concepts, TAC usage, and configuration management. |
3 (1.5 hrs) | Focus on weak areas and refine your notes. |
| Day 7 | Rest and mentally prepare for Week 6. | - | Reflect on your progress. |
Week 6: Advanced Troubleshooting Tools
Goal: Master log file analysis, advanced troubleshooting commands, and real-time monitoring tools.
| Day | Tasks | Pomodoros | Methodology |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Log File Analysis Basics: - Study how to access and read device logs using the show logs command. - Write a guide on interpreting common log messages (e.g., SIP errors, registration failures). |
4 (2 hrs) | Practice with logs in a lab setup. |
| Day 2 | Wireshark for SIP/RTP Analysis: - Learn how to capture and filter network traffic for SIP and RTP streams. - Practice identifying issues like packet loss, jitter, or registration errors. |
4 (2 hrs) | Capture and analyze packets in a lab environment. |
| Day 3 | CUCM RTMT (Real-Time Monitoring Tool): - Study the key features of RTMT for monitoring device health and performance. - Write notes on using RTMT to track registration statuses, QoS metrics, and alarms. |
4 (2 hrs) | Practice using RTMT in a test CUCM environment. |
| Day 4 | CLI Troubleshooting Commands: - Practice using commands like ping, traceroute, and debug. - Write down scenarios where each command is most useful (e.g., connectivity issues, path discovery). |
3 (1.5 hrs) | Create scenarios and solve them using CLI tools. |
| Day 5 | GUI-Based Diagnostics: - Explore the web-based interfaces for Cisco devices. - Practice diagnosing and resolving configuration issues using the GUI. |
3 (1.5 hrs) | Test configurations in a simulated setup. |
| Day 6 | Spaced Review: - Consolidate Weeks 5–6 material using flashcards and summary notes. - Practice troubleshooting workflows combining log analysis, CLI tools, and RTMT. |
3 (1.5 hrs) | Focus on refining troubleshooting workflows. |
| Day 7 | Rest and reflect on progress. Plan for final review and exam simulations in Weeks 7–8. | - | Relax and prepare for Week 7. |
Week 7: Topic-Specific Mastery and First Mock Exam
| Day | Tasks | Pomodoros | Methodology |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Review Collaboration Fundamentals (Week 1 topics): - Revise SIP, RTP, TCP/UDP, DHCP/TFTP, VLAN, and QoS. - Solve 10-15 questions covering these topics. - Practice creating VLAN and QoS configurations in a simulated environment. |
4 (2 hrs) | Use active recall and lab practice. |
| Day 2 | Review CUCM and Expressway (Week 2 topics): - Summarize CUCM device registration steps and Expressway-E/C integration. - Solve 5-7 scenario-based questions involving CUCM or remote worker setups. - Practice CUCM configuration in a lab. |
3 (1.5 hrs) | Focus on CUCM interface practice. |
| Day 3 | Review Cisco Devices (Week 3 topics): - Revisit IP phones, Webex Room Kits, and peripherals (cameras, microphones). - Write setup steps for Cisco Touch 10 and compare IP phone models (7800 vs. 8800). - Practice setting up devices in a lab. |
4 (2 hrs) | Use flashcards and diagrams for review. |
| Day 4 | Review Maintenance and Troubleshooting (Week 4 topics): - Revisit factory resets, configuration backups, and firmware updates. - Solve troubleshooting problems related to power failures, unresponsive devices, and QoS issues. |
4 (2 hrs) | Use CLI for hands-on troubleshooting. |
| Day 5 | Mock Exam 1 (Full-Length): - Take a timed, full-length mock exam covering all topics. - Record questions where you struggled and categorize them by topic. |
4 (2 hrs) | Analyze results and note weak areas. |
| Day 6 | Analyze Weak Areas from Mock Exam 1: - Focus on topics where mistakes were made. - Write explanations for incorrect answers and reattempt similar problems. - Practice specific configurations and troubleshooting workflows. |
3 (1.5 hrs) | Targeted practice and explanations. |
| Day 7 | Rest, reflect, and plan for Week 8. | - | Relax and ensure readiness. |
Week 8: Consolidation and Final Exam Preparation
| Day | Tasks | Pomodoros | Methodology |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Quick Review of All Topics: - Summarize all key concepts in a single document (e.g., SIP flows, CUCM setup, device configurations). - Use flashcards to quiz yourself on all major topics. - Focus on any remaining gaps. |
4 (2 hrs) | Use a mind map or summary sheet. |
| Day 2 | Practice Topic-Specific Problems: - Solve 10 questions for each major section: Networking Fundamentals, CUCM/Expressway, Devices, Maintenance, and Troubleshooting. - Simulate common CLI tasks (e.g., ping, traceroute, show running-config). |
4 (2 hrs) | Hands-on problem-solving. |
| Day 3 | Mock Exam 2 (Full-Length): - Take another timed, full-length mock exam. - Compare results to Mock Exam 1 and note improvements. - Identify any persistent weak areas for final focus. |
4 (2 hrs) | Track progress and confidence. |
| Day 4 | Targeted Practice on Weak Areas: - Focus on 1–2 topics where errors were most frequent (e.g., device setup, NAT traversal). - Solve related problems and review corresponding notes or lab setups. |
3 (1.5 hrs) | Drill down into weak spots. |
| Day 5 | Mock Exam 3 (Final Simulation): - Take a final full-length mock exam under timed conditions, simulating real exam pressure. - Treat it as the actual exam and avoid distractions. |
4 (2 hrs) | Build final confidence. |
| Day 6 | Final Review and Relaxation: - Review only high-level summaries and quick notes. - Focus on building confidence rather than cramming. |
3 (1.5 hrs) | Use light review techniques. |
| Day 7 | Rest and mentally prepare for the actual exam. - Ensure you have all logistics ready (exam date, ID, etc.). |
- | Stay calm and positive. |