LEARN DEVOPS IN DAYS! (SECRET TIPS CLOUD GURUS DON’T WANT YOU TO KNOW!)
You’re probably taking a DevOps boot camp or currently doing self-study around DevOps-related technologies. Sometimes, you might feel overwhelmed or lost with some of the concepts concerning DevOps and cloud computing. This could be because you’re just getting into the DevOps space or you’re trying to figure out your way through this field, which can be challenging at times.
You’ll want to read this article until the end because I’ll share five tips that you can use to effectively study DevOps and cloud computing without wasting much time. Let’s dive into these tips!
- Make Use of Documentation
If you’re using a particular cloud provider, such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), you should utilize their extensive documentation. AWS has a vast library of resources designed to help you understand its key services. For instance, if you’re studying services like Virtual Private Cloud (VPC), Elastic Compute Cloud (EC2), or Simple Storage Service (S3), the AWS documentation provides detailed explanations and examples.
Unfortunately, many students overlook the value of documentation and face unnecessary challenges when trying to understand these services. If you’re using Microsoft Azure, be sure to explore its Azure platform documentation as well. Familiarizing yourself with official documentation can significantly enhance your learning process.
- Use Artificial Intelligence Tools
Leverage AI tools such as ChatGPT, Poe, GitHub Copilot, and others to aid your learning. These tools can save you significant time by summarizing concepts, providing explanations, and even generating sample code snippets.
For example, if you’re studying Terraform, you can ask an AI tool questions like:
- What is Terraform?
- How can Terraform be used in an AWS environment?
- How can I create a Terraform template for provisioning resources?
- What are some common configuration issues, and how can I resolve them?
AI tools can also provide examples and templates, making your study process more efficient. Don’t underestimate the power of AI in your DevOps and cloud learning journey.
- Do Hands-On Projects
Hands-on practice is crucial when studying DevOps and cloud computing. If you’re attending a boot camp or following an online course, make sure you practice provisioning the services you’re learning about. For example, when learning about identity and access management, storage services, compute resources, or networking, practice setting them up on a cloud platform like AWS or Azure.
Additionally, seek out end-to-end projects to solidify your skills. Platforms like Medium offer detailed guides on projects that involve multiple services or even span across different cloud platforms. These projects not only improve your practical skills but also prepare you for real-world challenges.
Remember, it’s not just about getting a job; you also need the skills to succeed and maintain your role. Hands-on experience is the key to building this confidence.
- Join a DevOps Study Group
Find one or two like-minded individuals who are also studying DevOps and form a study group. Regularly meet to share experiences, ideas, and projects. Study groups are incredibly helpful for staying motivated and exchanging knowledge about different technologies.
Additionally, consider finding a mentor. A DevOps mentor or coach can guide you through your learning journey, help you with hands-on practice, and even assist in interview preparation. Having the support of a study group and a mentor can make a significant difference in your progress.
- Prepare for Interviews and Get a Mentor
If you’re preparing for interviews, having a mentor or a study group can be invaluable. A mentor can help you practice common interview questions, review your resume, and provide insights into what companies are looking for in DevOps engineers.
When you feel ready, start applying for jobs and participating in interviews. Treat each interview as a learning opportunity. Even if you don’t make it to the final round, you’ll gain insights into what companies expect and how you can improve.
If you’re looking for a platform to help you learn DevOps and cloud skills or prepare for interviews, check out resources like Wanda prep (one of my recommended platforms).