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8.1.2. Tackling Scenario-Based Questions
First Principle: Scenario questions test your ability to synthesize knowledge across domains. The key is decomposing the scenario into its component requirements, then evaluating each answer against ALL requirements — not just the most obvious one.
Decomposition Framework:
- Identify the goal: What must the solution achieve? (security, compliance, cost, operational simplicity)
- Identify constraints: What limitations exist? (Regions, budget, existing architecture, compliance framework)
- Identify the security principle: Which first principle applies? (least privilege, defense-in-depth, zero trust, automation)
- Evaluate each answer against ALL requirements — the correct answer satisfies every constraint
Distractor Elimination Patterns:
| Distractor Type | How to Identify |
|---|---|
| Technically correct but operationally wrong | Works in theory but creates management overhead |
| Manual when automated exists | "Manually configure" vs. "use AWS service" |
| Correct service, wrong feature | Uses S3 Glacier when S3 Object Lock was needed |
| Overkill solution | CloudHSM when KMS would suffice |
| Missing a requirement | Addresses encryption but not access control |
Written byAlvin Varughese
Founder•15 professional certifications