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Complete All Challenges Before Submission: A Guide to Proper Exam Submission

Last updated on Jan 08, 2026

Introduction

One of the most common mistakes students make during certification exams is submitting their work incrementally—one challenge at a time. This article clarifies the correct submission process and explains why completing all challenges before submission is essential for a successful exam experience.

Understanding the Exam Submission Process

The Single Submission Rule

You must complete ALL challenges before submitting your exam report. The submission process is designed as a single, comprehensive submission that includes solutions to every challenge in the exam, not multiple submissions for individual challenges.

Why This Matters

The exam evaluation process is structured to assess your complete work holistically. Submitting challenges individually:

  • Disrupts the evaluation workflow — Examiners expect a complete report with all solutions

  • May result in incomplete evaluation — Partial submissions can be missed or overlooked

  • Creates confusion — Multiple submissions make it difficult to track your progress

  • Wastes your submission window — You have 24 hours after the exam; use it wisely

The Correct Submission Workflow

Step-by-Step Process

  1. Complete All Challenges First

  • Work through each challenge systematically

  • Ensure all solutions are tested and verified

  • Document your approach and findings for each challenge

  1. Compile Your Complete Report

  • Include solutions for ALL challenges in a single zip file

  • Follow the exam reporting template provided

  • Ensure all required sections are complete

  1. Review Before Submission

  • Double-check that every challenge is addressed

  • Verify all screenshots, code snippets, and explanations are included

  • Ensure the report is well-organized and clear

  1. Submit Once

  • Submit your complete report as a single submission

  • Include all required files (report, challenges folder if applicable, etc.)

  • Confirm your submission was received

Timeline Example

If your exam starts on Friday at 11:00 AM:

  • Exam duration: 6 hours (11:00 AM - 5:00 PM)

  • Report preparation: Use the remaining time on Friday evening and Saturday

  • Submission deadline: Saturday at 5:00 PM (24 hours after exam completion)

  • Single submission: Submit your complete report, before the deadline

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Incorrect Approach


Challenge 1 completed → Submit immediately

Challenge 2 completed → Submit again

Challenge 3 completed → Submit again

Challenge 4 completed → Submit again

Challenge 5 completed → Submit again

Problem: This creates multiple partial submissions that may not be properly evaluated.

✅ Correct Approach


Challenge 1 completed → Document solution

Challenge 2 completed → Document solution

Challenge 3 completed → Document solution

Challenge 4 completed → Document solution

Challenge 5 completed → Document solution

All challenges complete → Compile full report → Submit once

Benefit: A single, comprehensive submission ensures complete evaluation.

What to Include in Your Submission

Before submitting, verify:

  • [ ] All challenges are completed

  • [ ] All solutions are documented

  • [ ] Report follows the provided template

  • [ ] All required files are included

  • [ ] Screenshots are clear and relevant

  • [ ] Code snippets are properly formatted

  • [ ] Explanations are clear and complete

  • [ ] Submission is within the 24-hour window

  • [ ] Only ONE submission is made

What Happens After Submission:

  1. Evaluation Period: The Practical DevSecOps team evaluates your complete report (typically within 72 hours)

  2. Result Notification: You'll receive a pass/fail result via email

  3. Certificate Delivery: If you pass, your certificate will be emailed within 48 hours of the result

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I submit challenges one at a time if I'm running out of time?

A: No. You should complete all challenges and submit a single comprehensive report. If you're running short on time, prioritize completing all challenges over perfect documentation, but ensure your report addresses every challenges

Q: What if I can't complete all challenges?

A: Submit what you have completed, but ensure your report clearly indicates which challenges were completed and which were not. It's better to submit a complete report with partial solutions than multiple incomplete submissions.

Q: How do I know if my submission was received?

A: You should receive a confirmation email or notification. If you don't receive confirmation within a few hours, contact exam support.

Key Takeaways

  1. One submission, all challenges: Complete all challenges before submitting your report

  2. 24-hour window: You have 24 hours after the exam to prepare and submit

  3. Comprehensive report: Include solutions for every challenge in a single document

  4. Quality matters: Take time to ensure completeness and clarity

  5. Follow the template: Use the provided exam reporting template

  6. Verify before submitting: Double-check that everything is included

Conclusion

The exam submission process is designed to evaluate your complete work in a single, comprehensive submission. By completing all challenges before submitting, you ensure:

  • Proper evaluation of your work

  • Clear communication of your solutions

  • Efficient use of your submission window

  • Higher chances of success

Remember: Finish all challenges, then submit once. This approach demonstrates professionalism, thoroughness, and respect for the evaluation process—qualities that are essential in DevSecOps practice.