This is the third of the exams I’ve taken. Like all the others, it’s pretty straightforward. Some of the questions are typical, like “On a sheet of paper, how would you transfer data from one database file to another?” Others are more difficult and will require some IT knowledge.

For example, on the CD quiz, you’ll have to answer a trivia question like “If your name was Jacob, what name would you give your dog?” Answer choices include Jacob, Joseph or Joshua. Your choices demonstrate you’re knowledgeable about the database design processes involved. You’ll have a certain amount of time to complete the questions. Once you’re through, you pass the exam.

For the most part, the questions on the Access database are the same. On the CD quiz, though, they’re a little different. Some are designed to demonstrate how easy it is to create and customize views, and a few are designed to show you how you can work within the security features of Access. In other words, you get to learn the basics, so you can move on to more complex topics.

The first two sections of the quiz cover the basics. You’ll get a quick overview of what each topic area is about. On the second page of the CD, there is a short outline of what each topic looks like. You’ll see what the text boxes are for, and what the icons are. You’ll also get a visual representation of each concept. After you’ve seen the illustrations, you’re ready to start completing practice questions.

The third section of the CD is exactly what you’d expect – additional scenarios. If you haven’t worked with databases before, you’ll be expected to answer various questions with regard to Access. As you complete them, you get the knowledge needed to pass the final exam. Since there are no wrong answers, you never have to worry that you’ve given the wrong answer when trying to take the Access test.

The fourth and final part of the Access database administration CD is what many people call the labs. These labs are where you’ll go to complete practice questions that simulate real-world situations. In these scenarios, you don’t have any predetermined knowledge; you just have to analyze your own knowledge and decide what you think is best. Some examples of these scenarios include: choosing the right password, managing database accounts, creating a workstation, and more.

There are a couple of ways to “fail” the exam. You either can’t get enough hands on experience with Access, or you’re just plain forgetful. There are several books available that can help you remember the various Access database concepts. If you’re really forgetful, you could look up some Access tutorials on the Web. There’s nothing better than a good book to help you brush up on your knowledge, and many books come with a free Access database sample.

The last thing you can do to ensure your success on the exam is to study hard. There’s absolutely no substitute for experience, so make sure to take plenty of time studying for the exam. In particular, memorizing as many database design, administration, and planning topics as you can will help you get through the sections faster. It’s also a good idea to spend one night each week studying, particularly if you’re not familiar with the types of questions that are posed on Access. There’s no substitute for hands on experience, and the more you know before taking the Access database administration exam, the better your chances will be of passing.

There are a few things you can do to speed up the process of studying for the exam. One way is to set up a dedicated practice test account on the Test Management Association’s website. Here, you’ll be able to try many of the practice tests that the Access professionals use during the actual exam to make sure they’re familiar with the material and are ready to take the real test.

Another method is to purchase Access Practice Papers. This gives you practice tests and an overview of the types of questions that will appear on the real exam. It’s also helpful to review the format and terminology that will be used on the exam. You’ll want to brush up on your familiarity with the various commands and functions, but you don’t need to memorize every single command and function you’ll see on the Access database page.

The final tip is to get plenty of sleep. Taking an exam the night before is not advised. You may end up being so nervous that you’ll freeze up, even if you’ve studied well the day before. Sleep is important when studying for Access database administration exams and Access certification exams.