How to Pass the OSCP FIRST TIME!

Tips for Passing the OSCP Exam

In this video, the speaker shares 11 tips to help viewers pass the OSCP exam on their first attempt. The OSCP is a 48-hour hacking exam that requires participants to hack into as many machines as possible and write a report within a tight deadline.

Timing is Key

• Know when you perform best and plan your exam accordingly.

• Consider starting the exam early in the morning to maximize peak performance hacking time.

• Take breaks and stretch throughout the exam to avoid physical strain.

Fuel Your Body

• Eat well before and during the exam, focusing on low glycemic index foods that release energy slowly.

• Avoid relying solely on caffeine or sugar for energy, as they can cause crashes later on.

Practice Makes Perfect

• Spend ample time practicing in similar environments before taking the actual exam.

• Use resources like HackTheBox and VulnHub to hone your skills.

Document Everything

• Keep detailed notes throughout your practice sessions and during the actual exam.

• Use tools like CherryTree or OneNote to organize your notes effectively.

Stay Calm Under Pressure

• Don't panic if you encounter difficult challenges during the exam; take a deep breath and approach them methodically.

• Remember that failing once or twice is not uncommon, so don't give up if you don't pass on your first attempt.

Final Thoughts

• Passing the OSCP requires dedication, hard work, and perseverance. But with these tips in mind, you can increase your chances of success on your first attempt.

Taking Breaks and Support

This section covers the importance of taking breaks during the exam and having support.

Taking Breaks

• It is important to take a break from the desk during the exam.

• Going for a walk, run, swim or doing a workout can help get blood pumping back up into your brain through all your muscles.

• Taking a break can detox and refresh you, making you feel fantastic.

• Consider taking a break halfway through the exam.

Having Support

• Doing OSCP on your own is possible but having someone around to help makes it easier.

• On exam day, have someone around to support you by making tea/coffee/lunch/snacks etc.

• Write down exactly what time and what snack you want so that it's easy for them to help you.

• Having that level of support was fantastic for me on the day.

Note-Taking Tips

This section covers tips on note-taking during the exam.

Using Get Book Tool

• Use good notes and use them well.

• Use Get Book tool to put all commands in one place.

• Copy-paste commands from Get Book tool into command line when needed.

Types of Commands

• Simple commands like changing directories are common in OSCP exams.

• Other commands like generating payloads and remembering SQL injection techniques are also important.

Hack The Box & IPSEC Videos

• Hack The Box and IPSEC videos are great resources for OSCP exam preparation.

• TJ Knowles playlist for the OSCP is a good resource to follow.

• Set yourself a challenge of hacking five machines on Hack The Box in 24 hours.

• Smashing all of TJ Knowles videos in that playlist can help you prepare for the OSCP.

Preparing for the Exam

This section covers tips on preparing for the OSCP exam.

EJPT Course

• Consider taking something smaller like the EJPT course before attempting the OSCP.

Hacking Skills

• To pass the exam, you will actually have to do some hacking.

• Some Hack The Box machines may be trickier than OSCP machines.

• If you can hack five machines on Hack The Box in 24 hours, you're probably ready for your OSCP.

Tips for Passing the OSCP Exam

The speaker provides 11 tips for passing the OSCP exam, including practical advice on preparation, hydration, and temperature control.

Preparation is Key

• Completing the lab report gives you 10 extra points.

• Practical learning is necessary beyond just reading the training manual.

• Don't be disheartened if you don't pass on your first attempt.

Hydration is Important

• Drinking water regularly during the exam is important.

• Use a bottle that allows you to see how much water you've consumed.

Temperature Control Matters

• Ensure that your working environment has appropriate temperature control.

• Choose a room with even lighting and comfortable temperatures to perform best in your home.

Other Tips

• Reach out to the speaker with any questions or concerns about taking the OSCP exam.