How to Choose the Right Study Resources for CompTIA Security+

Meta Description:
Struggling to find the best study materials for CompTIA Security+? Here’s a practical guide to help you pick the right resources and study smarter—not harder.

Introduction:

Let’s be real: preparing for the CompTIA Security+ exam can feel like standing at the base of a mountain without a map.
I remember when I first decided to go for it—I had five tabs open, three Reddit threads bookmarked, and at least seven people giving me different advice on what to use to study. Sound familiar?

Choosing the right study resources for Security+ isn’t just about grabbing the first book you see on Amazon. It’s about finding what fits your learning style, goals, and schedule—and making sure it actually prepares you for the real-world questions you’ll face on the exam.

In this post, I’ll break down how to choose the best study materials based on experience, not hype, so you can stop stressing and start studying smart.

1. Start With the Official Exam Objectives

Before you get lost in practice tests or YouTube tutorials, do one simple thing: download the official CompTIA Security+ exam objectives from the CompTIA website.

This document tells you exactly what topics you’ll be tested on—no guesswork. Use it as your checklist. Any study material you choose should align closely with these objectives. If it doesn’t, skip it.

Pro Tip: Print the objectives out and highlight topics you’re unfamiliar with. That alone gives you a personalized roadmap.

2. Know Your Learning Style (This Is Key)

Here’s where a lot of people go wrong. They grab a dense textbook when they’re actually more of a visual learner. Or they binge-watch videos when they really retain more through hands-on practice.

Ask yourself:

1. Do I learn better by reading, watching, or doing?

2. Do I need structure or prefer to go at my own pace?

3. Am I prepping full-time or squeezing this in after work?

Based on your answers:

1. Visual learners: Go for video courses and infographics

2. Readers: Choose high-quality books and official guides

3. Hands-on learners: Use practice labs and simulations

For those wanting a structured, all-in-one training experience, check out Sprintzeal’s CompTIA Security+ Training. It offers instructor-led classes, practical learning tools, and exam-aligned content designed for real-world success.

3. Top Resources (and Why They Work)

Here’s a breakdown of what’s out there—and what actually works:

1. Books:

   1. CompTIA Security+ Study Guide by Mike Meyers – Very beginner-friendly and full of real-world scenarios.

   2. CompTIA Security+ Get Certified Get Ahead by Darril Gibson – A favorite for its clear explanations and review questions.

2. Online Video Courses:

   1. Professor Messer (Free) – Great for budget learners who want solid video content.

   2. Sprintzeal’s Security+ Training – Perfect if you want structured, mentor-guided learning with practical labs.

3. Practice Exams:

   1. Use them after your first round of studying. Look for explanations, not just answers.

   2. Tools like Boson or the quizzes within Sprintzeal’s platform are well-regarded.

4. Hands-On Labs:

   1. Services like CompTIA’s CertMaster Labs or simulated environments from your training provider will reinforce your skills far better than flashcards ever could.

4. Don’t Overload—Stay Focused

Here’s the trap I fell into: trying to use everything at once. Multiple books, three online courses, overlapping practice tests... and I ended up overwhelmed.

Pick one primary resource, one practice test provider, and supplement with light videos or community forums if needed. Quality over quantity is your best friend here.

5. Community Support and Study Groups Help More Than You Think

Sometimes, you just need to hear someone say, “Hey, I struggled with that too.”
Join Security+ communities on Reddit, Discord, or LinkedIn. Ask questions. Share resources. Celebrate small wins.

Bonus: Sprintzeal also provides access to active learner communities—a great way to stay motivated and accountable during your study journey.

Conclusion: Your Game Plan Moving Forward

The CompTIA Security+ exam isn’t just about memorizing facts—it’s about understanding how to think like a cybersecurity professional.
Choosing the right study resources doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

Here’s your action plan:

1. Start with the official exam objectives

2. Match your resources to your learning style

3. Choose quality, not quantity

4. Include hands-on practice

5. Lean on your community

And if you're looking for structured, expert-led guidance to fast-track your prep, I’d recommend giving Sprintzeal’s Security+ Training a serious look. It’s built for people who want to pass the exam and walk into their next cybersecurity role with confidence.