Microsoft Certified Application Specialist (MCAS)

There are many ways to repeat information in many cells in Excel throughout a worksheet. The most convenient way to repeat information in contiguous cells is by using the Fill command.

The Fill command is used to fill the active cell with the content of the adjacent cell. The Fill command is run through Home tab > Editing group > Fill.

Click the Down, Right, Up, Left, or Series option to fill cells. If the first cell contains a formula, the formula will be repeated in the additional cells. If the first cell contains text, the text will be repeated in the additional cells.

Data validation is a feature provided by MS Excel 2007. It helps users in maintaining the integrity of data in a worksheet. Data validation can be configured by clicking the Data Validation option in the Data Tools group on the Data tab.

In many worksheets created, different users enter data on it to get the desired calculations and results. The owner of the worksheet must ensure valid data entry for maintaining integrity of data. He can restrict data entry to a certain range of dates, limit choices by using a list, or make sure that only positive whole numbers are entered. The data validation feature provides immediate help to instruct users and displays clear messages when invalid data is entered.

The Microsoft test 77-602 (MCAS: Using Microsoft Office Excel 2007) evaluates the skills of all candidates that have six months to one year of hands-on experience of creating business reports with Microsoft Office Excel 2007. It also requires to have knowledge of using previous versions of Microsoft Office Excel.

Microsoft has specified more than twenty-eight objectives for the test 77-602 MCAS: Using Microsoft Office Excel 2007, which are grouped under five topics. Following are the important areas in which an individual should possess good knowledge before taking the 77-602 test:

• Creating and manipulating data
• Formatting data and content

Q. What is the pre-requisite for taking the exam 77-602?
A. Although there are no prerequisites for the exam 77-602 – MCAS – Using Microsoft Office Excel 2007, Microsoft recommends that the candidates for this exam should have the equivalent of six months to one year of hands-on experience on Microsoft Office Excel 2007 and might have experience with previous versions of Microsoft Office Excel.

Q. What certificate does it provide?
A. Passing the exam 77-602 provides the following certification:
Microsoft Certified Application Specialist: Microsoft Office Excel 2007

By getting MCAS certified, you can prove your expertise in using the latest Microsoft Office programs and the Windows Vista operating system. Getting certified will help you to differentiate yourself in today’s competitive job market, broaden your employment opportunities by displaying your advanced skills, and result in higher earning potential. Research indicates that certified individuals have increased competence, productivity, and credibility with their employers, co-workers, and clients.

Candidates must pass one certification exam in order to earn the MCAS credential:

1. MCAS: Windows Vista for the Business Worker (Exam 77-600)
2. MCAS: Microsoft Office Word 2007 (Exam 77-601)