Q&A: Preparing for ITIL 4 Foundations Exam

Preparing for your ITIL 4 Foundation exam is the perfect opportunity to embrace the ITIL continual improvement model, James! Let’s break it down step by step:

1. What is your vision?

Your goal is crystal clear—pass the exam and gain a solid understanding of ITIL. Keep that as your guiding star.

2. Where are you now?

Take stock of your current knowledge. What topics do you feel confident in, and where do you need improvement? Use a practice exam or syllabus checklist to assess your starting point and establish a measurable baseline.

3. Where do you want to be?

By exam day, you want to feel confident and ready to tackle any question. Define what “exam-ready” means to you—set a target score of 65% or higher to aim for success.

4. How do you get there?

Create a study plan for the week. Dedicate time to reviewing key concepts, guiding principles and practices—use the syllabus as your roadmap. Tailor your study approach to match your learning style:

• If you’re a visual learner, use flashcards, create mind maps, or add playful doodles to your notes (like drawing a target for “focus on value”).
• Prefer reading and writing? Summarise key points in your own words to reinforce understanding.
• If you’re a kinesthetic learner, discuss concepts with peers or relate them to scenarios at work.

Finally, practise answering questions under timed conditions to build confidence and manage exam stress. Visit our blog for extra tips and strategies on how to pass your ITIL exam >

5. Take action!

Follow through with your plan. Study smarter, not harder—focus on truly understanding ITIL rather than relying on rote memorisation.

6. Did you get there?

After each study session, assess your progress. Are you moving closer to your vision of being confident and prepared? Take another practice exam to measure improvement against your baseline, and adjust your plan to address any remaining knowledge gaps.

7. How do you keep the momentum going?

ITIL is built on the idea of continual learning. Even after passing your exam, look for opportunities to deepen your knowledge and apply ITIL principles in your work. Visit our recent Q&A response on possible pathways >

By following this approach, you’re not just preparing for an exam—you’re living ITIL’s values. Good luck, and remember, you’ve got this!