Mastering the Inner Game

In the final analysis, knowledge gives confidence, and confidence breeds success. If you study the materials in this book carefully and review all the practice questions at the end of each chapter, you should become aware of those areas for which additional learning and study are required.

After you've worked your way through the book, take the practice exam in the back of the book. Taking this test provides a reality check and helps you identify areas to study further. Make sure that you follow up and review materials related to the questions that you miss on the practice exam before scheduling a real exam. Don't schedule your exam appointment until after you've thoroughly studied the material and feel comfortable with the whole scope of the practice exam. You should score 80% or better on the practice exam before proceeding to the real thing. (Otherwise, obtain some additional practice tests so that you can keep trying until you hit the magic number.)

If you take a practice exam and don't get at least 80% to 90% of the questions correct, keep practicing. Microsoft provides links to practice exam providers and also self-assessment exams at www.microsoft.com/traincert/mcpexams/prepare/.

Armed with the information in this book and the determination to augment your knowledge, you should be able to pass the certification exam. However, you need to work at it, or you'll spend the exam fee more than once before you finally pass. If you prepare seriously, you should do well.

The next section covers other sources you can use to prepare for the Microsoft certification exams.