The MCAS certification consists of six specialized exams that test your knowledge on Microsoft Office programs. If you are preparing for any of the MCAS exam, you should have a thorough understanding of all the objectives covered by that particular exam.
You have to study hard, as there is no short cut to success, but if you prepare systematically, you can pass this exam easily. Here are 10 tips that will help you to pass this exam with flying colors:
- Set a deadline: Set a schedule for yourself before starting your preparations. Plan and decide how much time you will devote on your studies, practical and practice tests. Also plan when will you review your preparations and when will you take the exam beforehand. This will help you concentrate more and organize your time better. Although the preparation time depends on how fast you can study and what experience you have, it takes about 8-10 weeks to prepare for a particular exam.
- Review the exam objectives: Clearly understand what are the skills required and on what specific topics you should concentrate for a particular exam. Know what to expect in the exam and start your preparations accordingly.
- Read technical articles and study notes: Read plenty of good articles on the technologies covered and get as much knowledge as you can. Study notes are helpful to learn the technical terms, definitions and the key concepts required to understand the complex technology that the exams cover.
- Have practical experience: You should have practical knowledge on all the objectives covered by that particular exam. The questions in the MCAS exam test your skills on solving the practical problems and having practical experience will help you a lot.
- Take practice exams: Take practice exams and get the experience on the pattern and format of the actual certification exams. This will also help you discover your strengths and weaknesses, so you can focus more on the topics difficult to you. Quality exam simulations come with reporting and analysis tools and can actually tell you when you are ready for the real thing.
- Schedule the exam for your peak time: Always schedule your exam for your peak time. Taking the exams in the morning is generally considered better, but it depends on what is the most suitable time for you. Likewise, it is advisable to schedule your exam in weekdays, so that there are less people to take the exam at the exam center.
- Sleep well in the night before exam: Have a good night’s sleep before the exam. Staying up late and studying the whole night before the exam will not help, as you will feel tired and sleepy while taking the exam.
- Reach the exam center before time: Always try to reach the exam center at least 15 minutes before the exam. Use the extra time for completing the formalities and getting familiar with the environment at the testing center. You can also review the important topics so that you remember them during the exam.
- Be relaxed during the exam: Be comfortable while taking the exam. Read all the answer options even if you feel that you know the correct answer. If you are unsure about the answer, try to eliminate the obviously wrong answers first. You can also bookmark the questions on which you have doubt and answer them afterwards.
- Review the answers: Thoroughly review your answers before ending the exam. Answer the questions you have book marked by guessing the correct answer options and do not leave any question unanswered.
Pingback: Microsoft Certified Application Specialist (MCAS) » 6 points to remember while giving the MCAS exam