There are several types of study materials for each MCSA certification level. The first one is what is known as a training center. This is where learners can take an exam on-site at a testing center. This will allow them to practice what they have learned from the books, but not to attempt the actual exam on a server. This type of learning environment is extremely helpful for those who want to get a feel for what it is like to work in a professional environment while still studying for the MCSA exam profile.
Testing centers also allow students to test their skills on a simulated platform. This means that the same database and commands will be run, but without having to deal with any complications that would come with actually using the program on a server. The biggest benefit to this method is the simulating aspect. Many people don’t have time to spend sitting in a testing center doing their homework, so this is one way for them to get some experience with the MCSA exams.
On-site courses are also an option that many MCSA learners prefer to take. These are typically given at a local university or technical school and will give students the experience of getting familiar with the MCSA certification infrastructure. This experience will be necessary if they choose to sit for the actual exam.
Even those who are able to schedule exams regularly can do so via the Internet. There are a number of options available, so no matter when one starts looking into getting certified, there will be an option for them to choose from. For many learners, taking an online course is the most recommended option for them. This allows them to set their own pace and ensure that they have enough study time in order to master the materials and get ready for one big exam.
One thing to keep in mind is that all of these exams are very similar. Even though they do differ slightly, the core subjects and topics are all the same and will be tested on the MCSA exams. There are still some other components that all of these exams must cover in order to be considered the most thorough test, such as data types, programming language fundamentals, database design and administration, and more.
With all of these similarities in the exams, it is easy to see why many IT administrators state that the MCSA SQL Server 2012/2014 is the most comprehensive test that a professional engineer can take. In addition to being a test that a professional engineer can take several times over, it is also one exam that many new graduates will take multiple times before becoming certified. Because this level of expertise is necessary to understand how database servers work and how to implement them in an efficient manner, taking a few extra MCSA SQL Server exams is an excellent idea.
Those individuals who have never had experience with Microsoft SQL Servers may find that the MCSA SQL Server requirements are a bit overwhelming. In fact, many professionals believe that taking a couple or even multiple exams is necessary to achieve a certification because they will have a better understanding of the material. Most experts will tell potential candidates that it is possible to gain experience with SQL Server by taking an MCSA exam that has not been preceded by another prior exam. By doing this, those individuals will have more confidence in their abilities and will be able to pass the MCSA SQL Server 2012/2014 in a shorter amount of time.