formats: Depending on which exam you take, you’ll see multiple-choice questions as well as select-and-place and prioritize-a-list questions. Simulations and case study–based formats are included as well. Let’s take a look at the types of exam questions, so you’ll be prepared for all of the possibilities.
Multiple-Choice Questions
Multiple-choice questions come in two main forms. One is a straightforward question followed by several possible answers, of which one or more is correct. The other type of multiple-choice question is more complex and based on a specific scenario. The scenario may focus on several areas or objectives.
Select-and-Place Questions
Select-and-place exam questions involve graphical elements that you must manipulate to successfully answer the question. For example, you might see a diagram of a computer network. A typical diagram will show computers and other components next to boxes that contain the text “Place here.” The labels for the boxes represent various computer roles on a network, such as a print server and a file server. Based on information given for each computer, you are asked to select each label and place it in the correct box. You need to place all of the labels correctly. No credit is given for the question if you correctly label only some of the boxes.
In another select-and-place problem, you might be asked to put a series of steps in order by dragging items from boxes on the left to boxes on the right and placing them in the correct order. One other type requires that you drag an item from the left and place it under an item in a column on the right.
Simulations
Simulations are the kinds of questions that most closely represent actual situations and test the skills you use while working with Microsoft software interfaces. These exam questions include a mock interface on which you are asked to perform certain actions according to a given scenario. The simulated interfaces look nearly identical to what you see in the actual product.
Because of the number of possible errors that can be made on simulations, be sure to consider the following recommendations from Microsoft:
■ Do not change any simulation settings that don’t pertain to the solution directly.
■ When related information has not been provided, assume that the default settings are used.
■ Make sure that your entries are spelled correctly.
■ Close all the simulation application windows after completing the set of tasks in the simulation.
The best way to prepare for simulation questions is to spend time working with the graphical interface of the product on which you will be tested.
Case Study–Based Questions
Case study–based questions first appeared in the MCSD program. These questions present a scenario with a range of requirements. Based on the information provided, you answer a series of multiple-choice and select-and-place questions. The interface for case study–based questions has a number of tabs, each of which contains information about the scenario. At present, this type of question appears only in most of the Design exams.
Tips for Taking the Windows 10 Exams
Here are some general tips for achieving success on your certification exam:
■ Arrive early at the exam center so that you can relax and review your study materials. During this final review, you can look over tables and lists of exam-related information.
■ Read the questions carefully. Do not be tempted to jump to an early conclusion. Make sure that you know exactly what the question is asking.
■ Answer all questions. If you are unsure about a question, mark it for review and come back to it at a later time.
■ On simulations, do not change settings that are not directly related to the question. Also, assume default settings if the question does not specify or imply which settings are used.
■ For questions that you’re not sure about, use a process of elimination to get rid of the obviously incorrect answers first. This improves your odds of selecting the correct answer when you need to make an educated guess.
Exam Registration
At the time this book was released, Microsoft exams are given using more than 1,000 Authorized VUE Testing Centers around the world. For the location of a testing center near you, go to VUE’s website at www.vue.com. If you are outside of the United States and Canada, contact your local VUE registration center.
Find out the number of the exam you want to take, and then register with the VUE registration center nearest to you. At this point, you will be asked for advance payment for the exam. The exams are $165 each, and you must take them within one year of payment. You can schedule exams up to six weeks in advance or as late as one working day prior to the date of the exam. You can cancel or reschedule your exam if you contact the center at least two working days prior to the exam. Same-day registration is available in some locations, subject to space availability. Where same-day registration is available, you must register a minimum of two hours before test time.
When you schedule the exam, you will be provided with instructions regarding appointment and cancellation procedures, ID requirements, and information about the testing center location. In addition, you will receive a registration and payment confirmation letter from Prometric.
Microsoft requires certification candidates to accept the terms of a nondisclosure agreement before taking certification exams.
Who Should Read This Book?
This book is intended for individuals who want to earn their MCSA: Windows 10 certification.
This book will not only help anyone who is looking to pass the Microsoft exams, it will also help anyone who wants to learn the real ins and outs of the Windows 10 operating system.
What’s Inside?
Here is a glance at what’s in each chapter:
Chapter 1: Windows 10 Installation In the first chapter, I explain the requirements and steps to install and configure Windows 10. I will also show you the different versions of Windows 10.
Chapter 2: Installing in an Enterprise Environment This chapter shows you how to configure automated installation of Windows 10. I will talk about using the Windows Imaging and Configuration Designer (ICD) too, using Active Directory–based activation and implementing volume activation using a Key Management Service (KMS). I will also explain Hyper-V and how imaging works. I will also show you how to configure Mobility options.
Chapter 3: Configuring Devices and Drivers In this chapter, I will talk about installing, updating, disabling, and rolling back drivers. I will also show you how to resolve driver issues and how to configure driver settings. I will talk about using signed and unsigned drivers and also how to manage driver packages.
Chapter 4: Configuring Storage I show you how to configure
