Exam Objectives can be changed in 60 days MS-exams

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Hi IT Pro or Mike:

I just subscribed to a webinar (CyberVista/Kaplan IT Training) where they discussed that the Microsoft Exam Objectives can be changed within the 60 days period? this is totally crazy, what happens if you fail the exam or exams on multiple times? within the 60 days period? this I think is really stupid and probably a cash grab from Microsoft, I though that changing their exam dates is crazy (being retired) this will make it worse or more stress on the MS Candidates pursuing the Microsoft exam(s). I also learned from this Webinar from (CyberVista/Kaplan) they are saying that performance based exams are longer (180 mins or 3 hours?) and may require a bigger monitor? and also might have to take it at home since most testing centres might not have bigger monitors
They also mentioned that the new microsoft exams may also have case studies and some screens you cannot go back and change your answer(s). I truly believe that the new Microsoft exam(s) are going to be very tough to pass. 3 hours long, case studies and performance based are two sections I don't really enjoy doing. This webinar has really open my eyes, so relying on books is going to be useless and more focus on VMs or labs than anything else, So how exactly can you really prepare for an exam like this?

a Second input on this would be great

Dan l.

Hey @Daniel-Loyer,

Microsoft exams are not easy, and they never have been. If they were, then everyone would be certified and the certification wouldn't be worth much ;)

That being said, with the proper preparation and studying, you will be successful!

I did a webinar recently with @Cherokee-Boose , where we discuss many of the questions you are asking. Check it out here: Microsoft Certification Test Prep

1. They discussed that the Microsoft Exam Objectives can be changed within the 60 days period?

From Microsoft:

We review our cloud-based exams every two months. Any changes that affect the objective domain and the existing questions are incorporated into the exam. Specifically, technically inaccurate questions are removed from the exam; some items are modified, and new items may be created to assess new, but related, skills.

So yes they can (and probably will) change the exam over time. This doesn't mean the entire exam is rewritten every 60 days. They make small changes to keep the exam current and accurate, if necessary. If you have prepared properly, and understand the listed objectives, a change to a question or two is not going to mean the difference between passing and failing. You do not need to get a 100% to pass the exam either. Usually 700 out of 900, or around 78%.

2. They are saying that performance based exams are longer (180 mins or 3 hours?)

From Microsoft:

Yes. These exams may take longer to complete than exams that do not contain performance-based items; however, our research suggests that most candidates complete tasks more quickly than they complete other item types. The amount of time allotted for each exam takes this into account.

So yes, the exam does allow more time, that doesn't mean you have to use it all. If you get done before the exam timer expires, there is no penalty. But if you need more time, it's available. I would much rather have too much time, so I could spend extra time on a question I was struggling with, rather than have to Christmas tree the last ten questions because I was running out of time. Less pressure is a good thing ;)

3. May require a bigger monitor?

Not sure about this one. Some test centers might be using older equipment. If they are still using 15" monitors, they might need to upgrade. A 15" monitor might be fine for a standard format exam, but if you are going to be given an actual desktop to work from, it won't be sufficient. Take your Windows 10 machine and set the resolution to 800x600. It will warn you that the resolution is too low and some items might not be displayed. So yep, if they are using CRT's at your test center, they will need to upgrade. I have seen some pretty crappy test centers, so it might be a good idea to scope out the test center before you register.

4. Might have to take it at home since most testing centres might not have bigger monitors

Taking a test from home is an option for many Microsoft exams, but I can tell you from personal experience, it's not as easy as it sounds. There are a lot of requirements to ensure you are not trying to cheat on the exam. I find it much easier to go to a test center that has already been certified. I had to find a room with no windows or blinds on the windows. You have to use the camera and do a 360 of the room so the proctor can verify. It has to be quiet. They are listening (and watching). If they hear anyone else, they can end the exam. Even talking out loud to yourself can be a problem. (I always talk to myself during an exam, lol)

to be continued...

5. The new microsoft exams may also have case studies

From MIcrosoft:

The case study exam format uses complex scenarios that more accurately simulate what professionals do on the job. Scenario-based questions included in the case studies are designed to test your ability to identify the critical information needed to solve a problem and then analyze and synthesize it to make decisions. You can refer to scenario details as often as you’d like while you are working on questions in a case study.

6. Some screens you cannot go back and change your answer(s).

From Microsoft:

You may review the questions in a case study until you move to the next case or section of the exam. Once you leave a case study, however, you will not be able to review the questions associated with that case. When you complete a case study and its associated questions, a review screen will appear. This screen lets you review your answers and make changes before you move to the next case study.

So in the end, yes the exams are not easy, this is by design. Case studies and performance based questions are different, and will take some getting used to, but they more accurately determine if you truly understand a concept, and can perform certain tasks, which is what the certification is supposed to do. When an HR person sees you are certified, they know you can walk the walk, not just talk the talk, lol.

Books are still a big part of my studying process. I have found myself buying more eBooks however. Many print books come with access to an electronic version. Most have a website where they can post new or changed information, or errata.

Hope this helps, make sure to watch our webinar ;)