Microsoft offers a comprehensive range of certifications to help recent graduates and working professionals acquire the skills they need to advance their careers.
The exams are tough and might even mean a few sleepless nights, but they aren’t impossible. With the right strategies, you can attain one of these certifications on your first try.
Below are seven tips to help you pass a Microsoft certification exam.
1. Understand Everything
It goes without saying that you need to understand all of the technical aspects of your exam: the type of certification, the questions you will be asked, the duration of the exam, the marks/grades distribution, etc. Thoroughly check the exam description on Microsoft’s website so you can prepare accordingly.
2. Use the Right Study Materials
The Internet is packed with information, and many guides are available to help you pass the Microsoft certification exam. Most of them are okay, but you need to find and invest in the right study materials that suit your needs. Enrol in Microsoft courses at the best IT college in your area to gain access to the best study materials and hands-on learning opportunities.
3. Practice, Practice, Practice
While video courses are helpful, they’re no substitute for hands-on lab work. Choose a Microsoft training program that provides lab practice, allowing you to test your skills in a comfortable learning environment.
4. Talk to Professionals with Microsoft Certifications
Speaking to people who have firsthand experience with the certification process may help you better prepare for the exam. Search for people who have passed the Microsoft certification exam and ask for their advice.
5. Master Time Management
How well you manage your time directly affects your efficiency. Use your time wisely to maximize productivity throughout your preparation and during the exam itself.
6. Eliminate Distractions
One of the biggest challenges people face during preparation and practice is distractions—yes, we’re talking about your smartphone. Try to eliminate all of your distractions, or at least limit them as much as possible. Turn off the TV, find a quiet place to study, and put the phone away for a few hours.
7. Sit Back and Relax
The hours you have put into practice for the exam have prepared you for the big day—now sit back and relax. The exam won’t get any easier by worrying. It is okay if you don’t know the answer to every question; be confident in what you have learned, and don’t let anxiety get the best of you.
Follow these seven strategies to pass one of the Microsoft certification exams. Even one of these certifications on your résumé will be worth the effort and significantly increase your career opportunities.