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. |