Preparing for the Microsoft Certified: Solutions Architect Expert (AZ-305) exam is a challenge. It requires a shift from technical implementation to high-level design. To streamline my preparation, I created a comprehensive resource using NotebookLM.
I am sharing this notebook to help you navigate the complexities of Azure architecture.
Transition to an Architect Mindset
The biggest hurdle in the AZ-305 is moving past the "how" and focusing on the "why." This notebook trains you to evaluate designs based on the Microsoft Azure Well-Architected Framework. You will learn to weigh trade-offs between:
- Cost Optimization
- Security
- Reliability
- Performance Efficiency
- Operational Excellence
Master SKUs and Service Tiers
Memorizing service limits and pricing tiers is tedious but necessary. This notebook serves as a persistent cheat sheet for:
- Storage Redundancy: Understanding when to use LRS, ZRS, GRS, or RA-GRS.
- Compute Tiers: Choosing between App Service plans, Azure Functions, and AKS configurations.
- Database Scaling: Comparing SQL Managed Instance, Azure SQL Database, and Cosmos DB RU/s.
Strategy for Case Studies
Case studies are often the most time-consuming part of the exam. The notebook provides a structured approach to break down long business scenarios. It helps you identify key technical requirements buried in text-heavy prompts. You will learn to map business goals directly to Azure technical solutions.
Exam Day Tactics
Technical knowledge is only half the battle. This resource includes specific tactics to manage your 140-minute window:
- Answer Every Question: Never leave a bubble blank. Mark for review if you are unsure.
- The "Microsoft Learn" Trap: Do not use the open-book feature during the initial pass. It consumes too much time.
- The Final Review: Save your documentation searches for the final review screen to verify specific SKU details or CLI syntax.
Access the Notebook
You can use this guide to supplement your hands-on labs and practice exams. It centralizes documentation and study notes into one interactive interface.
Check out the notebook here.
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