CKAD — Final Checklist

3 minute read

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How long is the CKAD exam and what is the passing score?

The CKAD exam is 2 hours with 15-20 performance-based questions. The passing score is 66%. You get one free retake if you do not pass on the first attempt.

Q2: Can I use bookmarks during the exam?

Yes, you can use the built-in browser to access kubernetes.io/docs, kubernetes.io/blog, and github.com/kubernetes. You cannot access any other websites. Pre-bookmarking important pages is a good strategy.

Q3: What Kubernetes version is used in the exam?

The exam uses a recent stable version of Kubernetes. Check the CNCF CKAD page for the exact version.

Q4: Do I need to memorize YAML from scratch?

No. Use kubectl create ... --dry-run=client -o yaml to generate YAML templates. You should memorize the key fields that need customization (securityContext, probes, resources, etc.) but not entire YAML files.

Q5: Is the CKA recommended before CKAD?

Not required. The CKAD focuses on application development — Pods, Deployments, Services, ConfigMaps, Secrets, Ingress. The CKA focuses on cluster administration. Many people take CKAD first since it is considered slightly more straightforward.

Q6: What tools are available in the exam environment?

You have access to kubectl, helm, vi/vim, nano, jq, yq, and standard Linux tools. The kubectl autocomplete and k alias are typically pre-configured.

Q7: How should I handle questions I am stuck on?

Flag the question and move on. Return to it in your second pass. Do not spend more than 10 minutes on any single question — the easy questions you skip could cost you more points.

Q8: Can I copy-paste during the exam?

Yes. You can copy from the kubernetes.io docs and paste into the terminal. Practice the keyboard shortcuts: on macOS Cmd+C/V, on Linux/Windows Ctrl+Shift+C/V in the terminal.

Q9: What if my internet disconnects during the exam?

The timer pauses. Contact the proctor through the chat. You can resume once your connection is restored. Your exam environment is preserved.

Q10: How do I prepare in the last week before the exam?

  1. Complete both killer.sh practice sessions
  2. Practice creating all resource types from memory
  3. Review your weak areas (check which practice questions you got wrong)
  4. Get comfortable with the exam environment and time pressure
  5. Rest well the night before — fatigue causes mistakes

Final Preparation Checklist

Use this checklist in the week before your exam:

Knowledge Check

  • I can create Pods, Deployments, Services, Jobs, and CronJobs with imperative commands
  • I understand all three probe types and can configure liveness + readiness probes
  • I can create ConfigMaps and Secrets and mount them as env vars and volumes
  • I can set resource requests, limits, and explain QoS classes
  • I can write SecurityContexts (runAsUser, readOnlyRootFilesystem, capabilities)
  • I can create ServiceAccounts and bind Roles to them
  • I can configure Ingress with path-based and host-based routing + TLS
  • I can write NetworkPolicies for ingress and egress (including AND vs OR selectors)
  • I can create and use Custom Resource Definitions
  • I can use Helm to install, upgrade, rollback, and uninstall charts
  • I can use Kustomize with overlays and patches
  • I understand rolling updates, rollbacks, blue-green, and canary patterns
  • I can debug Pods in CrashLoopBackOff, ImagePullBackOff, and Pending states
  • I understand multi-container patterns: sidecar, init, ambassador, adapter

Speed Check

  • I can set up aliases and autocomplete in under 1 minute
  • I can create a Deployment with probes in under 3 minutes
  • I can create a NetworkPolicy from a description in under 5 minutes
  • I can create an Ingress with TLS in under 4 minutes
  • I can switch contexts and namespaces fluently

Environment Check

  • I have completed at least one killer.sh session
  • I have practiced in a real cluster (minikube, kind, or cloud)
  • I have tested my webcam, microphone, and internet connection
  • I have a clean desk and valid government ID ready
  • I know the exam rules (no dual monitors, no headphones, etc.)

You Are Ready

You have worked through 16 chapters covering every CKAD domain. You know the material.

On exam day:

  1. Set up your aliases first
  2. Read each question completely
  3. Work in the correct namespace
  4. Use imperative commands for speed
  5. Verify every answer
  6. Flag hard questions and come back

Good luck on your CKAD exam. You have got this.

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