Notes for first timers:
If you have never taken one of these tests before, you are in for a real treat.The Microsoft subject matter is a real equalizer for people with little ability to catch up with those with years of experience in the computing field. In my classes at school we had a number of really sharp folks who basically had to start over and relearn this subject matter. This would be a word to the wise: If you think you know it all, these tests will really kick your tail. Biblically speaking you might say "pride comes before the fall".
Bill Gates is watching you
On the day you take your test, you will be required to bring picture ID and will be given two sheets of paper or dry erase tablets that you can use for notes.You will not be allowed to take your notes with you when the test is over. No laptops, notes, calculators or other helpers are allowed. If you are unfamiliar with the way the test operates, you can take a short 15 minute orientation. There is no real reason you need to if you have already been practicing with the Assessment Exams from PEP, Transcender, Microsoft or other exam simulators. It is probably a good time to point out that it is not likely you will see any of the questions from the practice tests although you may see similar ones.
Before you hit the START button
The screen will be exactly like the practice tests but there will be a count down timer running in the upper right-hand corner of the screen. Most of the tests will have about 50 questions and you'll have about 75 minutes to complete it once you hit the start button. What I have done in the past is to take a minute before hitting the start button to compose myself and write down any notes on subjects that I suspect I'll be seeing on the test. The test will lock at the time limit and a graph will form on the screen displaying the thrill of victory or the agony of defeat. You will be given a certified hard copy of the test results shown on the screen. Be sure to keep this as it proves you have passed or gives you good feedback on weak areas if you need to retake it. A few weeks after you pass your first test you will get a certificate in the mail signed by Bill Gates extolling your virtues. On subsequent tests you will get a form letter with a list of the tests you have passed up to that date.
Buttons and Boxes
On the tests up through the NT level you will see questions that are answered with a radio button if only one answer is correct and check boxes on questions where one or more answers may be correct. Remember that no partial credit is given on check box questions. Some machines are very sensitive and you will need to place the cursor directly over the button or check box you are selecting because if you don't, the answer won't register or it will skip to another answer you didn't select. This has happened to me, but I caught it before any damage was done.
Some tests may contain questions that involve numerical calculations like TCP/IP. It is a good idea to practice using the Windows Calculator as this will be all you have available to compute your answer. The Calculator can switch to binary mode and will help on figuring out those pesky TCP/IP addresses.
First impressions make the best answers
Mark each question with your best first impression not leaving any blanks as you may run out of time and not be able to locate the ones you didn't answer. Many times you will be presented with a question that has several correct answers. It is your job to pick the best choice. If you are confident you have the question nailed, mark it with an answer and move on. If you are not 100% sure, mark your answer and also check the mark box and you can return to it later for review if time allows. Depending on your speed, you will probably finish the questions with time to review the ones you weren't sure about. These tests are tough and you are going to experience a certain amount of mental confusion. In this confused state you may start to make stupid mistakes that you will regret later on. Stay calm and do your best.
Danger Will Robinson!
Now is when things really get dangerous. You need to seriously consider any changes you make at this point. It is likely that your first impression is the correct answer. Don't change anything if you're not sure. I usually finish the tests with about 20-30 minutes to spare and know I've used that time to wreck my test score on a couple of occasions. On the other hand, these questions are really tricky and one word you overlook in a hasty reading of the question could be critical to getting the right answer. Once you have reviewed the marked questions and are sure each question is marked with an answer, hit the done button even if you still have time left. The score will appear up on the screen and you will know if you passed and see areas of study you need to work on.
What happens if you fail
When you fail, your test results are published on the Internet for your current employer and all future employers to see. Just Kidding! I have passed 12 Microsoft and 2 A+ certification tests: Windows 3.1, Windows 3.1 Networking, Win 95, Win NT Workstation 3.51 and 4.0, NT Server 3.51 and 4.0, NT 4.0 Server in the Enterprise, TCP/IP, SQL 6.0 Administration and WOSSA #1 and #2. It is possible you will fail one of these tests. If you do there is hope.
Get back up on the horse
After your failing test effort, sit down and make some notes about the questions or areas where you felt weak. The score report on your exam will have categories with individual scores. If your tests look like mine you'll have several areas where you averaged 80-100% but some really weak ones with 50% that pulled your average down below the passing grade of approximately 70%. You need to reschedule your test (ouch-another $100) within one or at the most two weeks. Keep in mind that you will not be taking the same test again. You will need to study in your weak areas without ignoring your strengths. I improved my score by 10-12 percentage points which easily moved me into the passing category.
Develop a learning system
Personally I have experimented with several systems to aid retention and these may be of help to you:
1. Use a highlighter to mark your text in subject areas you suspect might be on the test.
2. Be particularly well versed on any subject that is repeated several times in the text.You will very likely see it on the test.
3. Use note cards to make up outlines or lists of items and study these.
4. If you are a "verbal learner" you may need to repeat out loud what you are studying.
5. Have an assistant read test questions on Roadmap test or Transcender test to you. Often you may unknowingly memorize the answer to a question by its location among the answers and not by really knowing why it is the correct answer.
6. Learn to recognize wrong answers on the test. Many of the answers will look very plausible and you must try to pick the correct from the incorrect.
7. Find a mentor or study partner who can encourage you.
There is no one"magic way" to memorize and retain the vast amount of information in a 300-500 page text. Just experiment and find a system that works for you.