CompTIA Operational Procedure

Question 1

What is the correct order of steps when troubleshooting a PC problem, according to CompTIA A+ best practices?

Accepted Answer

Identify → Theory → Test → Plan → Implement → Verify/Document

Answer

CompTIA's 6-step troubleshooting methodology is: 1) Identify the problem, 2) Establish a theory of probable cause, 3) Test the theory, 4) Establish a plan of action, 5) Implement the solution, 6) Verify functionality and document. This systematic approach prevents skipping to solutions before understanding the problem.

Question 2

Before working inside a computer, a technician should FIRST:

Accepted Answer

Disconnect power and use an anti-static wrist strap to prevent ESD damage

Answer

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can permanently damage computer components with as little as 10 volts — far below what humans can feel. Before touching internal components, always disconnect the power cable and use an anti-static wrist strap or touch a grounded metal surface to discharge static buildup.

Question 3

Which type of backup copies only the files that have changed since the last FULL backup and clears the archive bit?

Accepted Answer

Differential backup

Answer

Differential backups copy all files changed since the last full backup and clear the archive bit. This means each successive differential backup grows larger as it includes all changes since the last full. Incremental backups copy changes since the last backup of any type, keeping differentials smaller but requiring more tapes to restore.

Question 4

A user reports that their computer displays a 'No Boot Device Found' error. What should the technician check FIRST?

Accepted Answer

BIOS/UEFI boot order settings

Answer

The most common cause of 'No Boot Device Found' is an incorrect boot order in BIOS/UEFI, where the system is trying to boot from a device (like a USB drive or optical disc) that doesn't contain an OS. Check BIOS boot order first before suspecting hard drive failure.

Question 5

What does MSDS/SDS documentation provide, and why is it important in IT?

Accepted Answer

Safety information about hazardous materials for proper handling and disposal

Answer

Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) / Safety Data Sheets (SDS) provide information about hazardous materials including proper handling, storage, disposal, and emergency procedures. In IT, this is relevant for toner cartridges, batteries, cleaning solvents, and CRT monitor components, which require proper disposal procedures.

CompTIA Practice Test

CompTIA Practice Test

CompTIA Operational Procedure