How to Become a Microsoft Certified Professional

A Microsoft certified professional, often referred to as a MCP, is a person who has the ability to use Microsoft products or technology as part of a business solution. Businesses are looking for trained professionals to help them troubleshoot and maintain their Microsoft products. While there is a steep learning curve, it is well worth the time and effort you put in to receive your certification.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. Decide which field you would like to get your certification. Microsoft list eleven exams you can take for certification. They range from MCSA: Security on Microsoft Windows 2000 to MCSD on Microsoft.net.

2. Find a place to take training. Training can vary from working in the IT field to formal training classes. Microsoft offers e-learning. Many IT schools offer formal classroom settings. You may want to consider several of these to learn and train.

3. Use a review guide for the certification exam you are going to take. These are available on the Microsoft website. They also offer practice tests for you to take. These will give you the feel for the actual test that Microsoft uses.

4. Register to take the exam. Prometric is an independent testing organization that has worldwide locations. They are partnered with Microsoft and offer certifications and exams. You can register online or at a testing center.

5. Take the certification exam. Certification exams for Microsoft are challenging. If you have done your training and have studied, you should do well.

6. Keep your skills and certification current. Technology changes fast. Keep up with the latest innovations Microsoft offers.

Tips & Warnings

• Many IT schools incorporate MCP testing and fees with their classes. Find out if the school you are interested in offers this.
• Microsoft certification test are hard and costly. Ensure that you have studied adequately before attempting to take the test.

Resources

• Microsoft offers extensive information on certifications.
• Prometric offers certification and exams worldwide.
• Microsoft Certified Professional Magazine will help you keep up to date.