INE and CCIE R&Sv5

[NetworkGroover]

Hi guys,

I just purchased the bundle from INE for the CCIE R&Sv5 exam and I'm curious - what's the strategy behind studying?  Is there a plan?  Isn't there a recommended reading list?  Or is v5 still kinda new?  So far I've been watching the videos, and trying to figure out how to set aside time to start going through the v5 workbook.

[that1guy15]

Work through the advanced technology section focusing on the  core topics (L2, IGPs, BGP, MPLS and DMVPN).

Once complete start working on foundation and full scale labs. For an understanding of what you should be doing with these labs check out this post from INE.
http://blog.ine.com/2010/10/09/how-to-pass-the-ccie-rs-with-ines-4-0-training-program/

Its for the v4 but give a good understanding of what you should be focusing on and how to progress. INE has said they will refresh this post for the v5.

Also dont be afraid to dig into some of the v4 labs. Even though some of the sections might be removed from v5 the core topics are still relevant.

My biggest advice is to set a game plan and hold yourself to it. But know it will change about 10 times. Its a long journey but you will get there as long as you just dont stop.


Oh also you need to be on ieoc.com. Great forum ran by INE.

[NetworkGroover]

Thanks.  Should I use this to also study for the written, or is this solely geared toward the lab?  I'm due for renewal in December so I need to get the written done by then.

By plan, did you just mean setting aside time? Or time in addition to method?  After reading several different strategies I've realized I haven't studied for a cert in so long that I'm already feeling overwhelmed.  Plus, I feel like the way I used to study just won't cut it here, but it's better than what I'm doing now which is just staring at this book and feeling like I'm going to implode from fear of not using the right method/strategy to make the best use of my time.

Right now I have the wife onboard with doing 3 hours a day, 3 times a week.  I'm just wondering if I should start going through the INE stuff or just study the cert guides to focus on passing the written.

EDIT - I now see from the link provided that the program was intended that you had your written already completed.  I guess I'll just hit the books and focus on the written for now.

[that1guy15]

So there are two common methods for the written.

1) focus 100% on written and bang it out. Then move onto the lab.
2) Start your lab studies and somewhere along the way knock off the written when your skill set is up there.

I kinda did both. I did 1 and failed the written twice. I then backed off the written studies and did 2 for a 3-4 months and then circled back and passed. The most annoying thing with 2 is you have to set aside your lab studies and focus on the written. They are two different mindsets. So if possible I would suggest 1.

As for study habits I say just start. Do something, you will figure out what you need to adjust along the way. The hours you suggested are fine to start but you will need to ramp yourself up to 30+ hours a week during the thick of your lab studies. I started my lab studies at 12-15 hours a week and working with my wife we found creative ways to add more time. With little kids I was never really able to put more than 30-35 hours a week in (including work). If you can handle more great, if not just expect it to take longer.

[NetworkGroover]

Thanks for sharing your experience.  It sounds like you're in a similar situation that I'm in - I have two young kiddos as well.

[that1guy15]

Yep I have a 5 and 3 year old and now a 3 month old. This year has been very rough for studies.

[NetworkGroover]

Three kids!?  Oh man - I have a 5 and 3 year old myself and the wife is trying to talk me into a third... not having that right now... good thing you're on the "tail end" of your studies!  I commend you!