According to wendyj, the Microsoft Certified Application Specialist (MCAS) will be rebranded to Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) at June/2010.
It seems that the new brand (MCAS) like MCITP doesn't heard by many employers.
Many of the employer's still only knows about MCSE but not MCITP (We can find it out from the recruit).
Besides, there are far too more MOSs than MCASs in the world.
Anyway, there will have new logos for the MOS.
About the old MCAS certificates or cards with MCAS logo, you may use them for lighting up the BBQ stove. :)
Showing posts with label MCAS. Show all posts
Showing posts with label MCAS. Show all posts
2009-09-10
2009-06-28
MCAS: 77-602 Excel Exam Content List (From Microsoft Official Courseware)
Following up on Post about MCAS Excel MOC:
I'm going to a some more description or links on each topics.
This post will be the index of it.
However, this will be a long long long project...
Section 1. Excel Essentials
Starting Excel.
Working in the Excel Window.
Using the On-Screen Tools.
Using the Office Button.
Changing Excel’s View.
Splitting a Window.
Opening a New Window.
Working with an Existing Workbook.
Opening an Existing Workbook.
Navigating a Worksheet.
Entering Data in a Worksheet.
Selecting, Editing, and Deleting a Cell’s
Quick-Printing a Worksheet.
Saving an Edited Workbook.
Closing a Workbook.
Section 2. Creating and Editing a Workbook.
Creating a Workbook.
Starting a Sales Report from Scratch.
Populating a Worksheet with Data.
Entering Labels.
Entering Dates.
Entering Values.
Filling a Series with AutoFill.
Cutting, Copying, and Pasting Data.
Copying a Data Series with the Mouse.
Moving a Data Series with the Mouse.
Copying and Pasting Data.
Cutting and Pasting Data.
Editing a Workbook’s Properties.
Setting Basic Properties.
Assigning Keywords to a Document.
Printing a Worksheet.
Setting the Print Area.
Using Print Preview.
Choosing a Printer.
Setting Other Printing Options.
Saving a Workbook for the First Time.
Saving a Workbook under a Different Name.
Saving a Workbook for use in a Previous Version of Excel.
Choosing a Different File Format.
Section 3. Formatting Cells and Ranges.
Inserting and Deleting Cells.
Adding a New Cell to a Worksheet.
Deleting a Cell from a Worksheet.
Manually Formatting Cell
Selecting Cells and Ranges.
Aligning a Cell’s
Choosing Fonts and Font Sizes.
Applying Special Character Attributes.
Changing Font Color.
Filling Cells with Color.
Applying Number Formats.
Wrapping Text in a Cell.
Merging and Splitting Cells.
Placing Borders around a Cell.
Copying Cell Formatting with the Format Painter.
Formatting Cells with Styles.
Applying a Cell Style.
Modifying a Cell Style.
Working with Hyperlinked Data.
Placing a Hyperlink in a Cell.
Removing a Hyperlink.
Applying Conditional Formatting to Cells.
Using the Rule Manager to Apply Conditional Formats.
Allowing Multiple Conditional Formatting Rules to be True.
Applying Specific Conditional Formats.
Clearing a Cell’s Formatting.
Section 4. Worksheet Formatting.
Working with Rows and Columns.
Inserting or Deleting a Row or Column.
Modifying Row Height or Column Width.
Formatting an Entire Row or Column.
Hiding and Unhiding a Row or Column.
Using Themes.
Choosing a Theme for a Worksheet.
Customizing a Theme.
Modifying a Worksheet’s On-Screen Appearance.
Formatting a Worksheet’s Background.
Changing the Color of a Worksheet’s Tab.
Viewing and Printing a Worksheet’s Gridlines.
Viewing and Printing Column and Row Headings.
Inserting Headers and Footers.
Adding Page Numbers to a Worksheet.
Inserting a Built-In Header or Footer.
Adding Content to a Header or Footer.
Page Layout.
Adding and Moving a Page Break.
Setting Margins.
Setting a Worksheet’s Orientation on the Page.
Scaling a Worksheet to Fit on a Printed Page.
Section 5. Managing Worksheets.
Organizing Worksheets.
Copying a Worksheet.
Rearranging the Worksheets in a Workbook.
Renaming a Worksheet.
Hiding and Unhiding a Worksheet.
Inserting a New Worksheet into a Workbook.
Deleting a Worksheet from a Workbook.
Finding and Replacing Data.
Locating Data with the Find Command.
Replacing Data with the Replace Command.
Navigating a Worksheet with the Go To Command.
Section 6. Working With Data.
Ensuring Your Data’s Integrity.
Restricting Cell Entries to Certain Data Types.
Allowing Only Specific Values to Be Entered in Cells.
Removing Duplicate Cells, Rows, or Columns from a Worksheet.
Sorting Data.
Sorting Data on a Single Criterion.
Sorting Data on Multiple Criteria.
Sorting Data by Using Conditional Formatting.
Sorting Data By Using Cell Attributes.
Filtering Data.
Using AutoFilter.
Creating a Custom AutoFilter.
Filtering Data by Using Conditional Formatting.
Filtering Data by Using Cell Attributes.
Subtotaling Data.
Grouping and Ungrouping Data for Subtotaling.
Subtotaling Data in a List.
Setting Up Data in Table Format.
Formatting a Table with a Quick Style.
Inserting a Row for Totals in a Table.
Add and Remove Rows or Columns in a Table.
Section 7. Using Basic Formulas and Functions.
Building Basic Formulas.
Creating a Formula That Performs Addition.
Creating a Formula That Performs Subtraction.
Creating a Formula The Performs Multiplication.
Creating a Formula That Performs Division.
Workplace Ready (Starting a Worksheet from a Template, with focus on built-in formulas?).
Using Cell References in Formulas.
Using Relative Cell References in a Formula.
Using Absolute Cell References in a Formula.
Referring to Data in Another Worksheet.
Referring to Data in Another Workbook.
Using Cell Ranges in Formulas.
Naming a Range.
Changing a Range’s Size.
Keeping Track of Ranges.
Creating a Formula That Operates on a Named Range.
Summarizing Data with Functions.
Using SUM.
Using COUNT.
Using COUNTA.
Using AVERAGE.
Using MIN.
Using MAX.
Using Formulas to Create Subtotals.
Selecting Ranges for Subtotaling.
Modifying a Range in a Subtotal.
Building Formulas to Subtotal and Total.
Controlling the Appearance of Formulas.
Displaying Formulas on the Screen.
Printing Formulas.
Section 8. Using More Advanced Formulas.
Using Formulas to Apply Conditional Formatting.
Using SUMIF.
Using SUMIFS.
Using COUNTIF.
Using COUNTIFS.
Using AVERAGEIF.
Using AVERAGEIFS.
Using Formulas to Look Up Data in a Workbook.
Using VLOOKUP.
Using HLOOKUP.
Adding Conditional Logic Functions to Formulas.
Using IF.
Using AND.
Using OR.
Using NOT.
Using IFERROR.
Using Formulas to Format Text.
Using PROPER.
Using UPPER.
Using LOWER.
Using Formulas to Modify Text.
Using SUBSTITUTE.
Using a Formula to Convert Text to Columns.
Section 9. Creating Charts from Your Data.
Building Charts.
Selecting Data to Include in a Chart.
Choosing the Right Chart for Your Data.
Creating a Bar Chart.
Formatting a Chart with a Quick Style.
Manually Formatting the Parts of a Chart.
Changing the Chart’s Fill Color or Pattern.
Changing the Chart’s Border Line.
Formatting the Data Series.
Modifying the Chart’s Legend.
Modifying a Chart.
Adding Elements to a Chart.
Deleting Elements from a Chart.
Moving a Chart.
Resizing a Chart.
Choosing a Different Chart Type.
Section 10. Adding Pictures and Shapes to a Worksheet.
Inserting Pictures.
Inserting a Picture from a File.
Inserting a Clip Art Picture.
Using SmartArt Graphics.
Adding Shapes.
Drawing Lines.
Inserting Basic Shapes.
Drawing a Block Arrow.
Creating a Flowchart.
Copying or Moving a Graphic.
Formatting Graphics.
Resizing a Graphic.
Rotating a Graphic.
Resetting a Picture to Its Original State.
Section 11. Securing and Sharing Documents.
Securing Your Work before Sharing It with Others.
Protecting a Workbook or Worksheet.
Setting Access Permissions to a Workbook.
Allowing Multiple Users to Edit a Workbook Simultaneously.
Marking a Document as Final.
Digitally Signing a Workbook.
Using the Document Inspector.
Distributing a Workbook by E-Mail.
Tracking Changes to a Workbook.
Turning Change-Tracking On and Off.
Inserting Tracked Changes.
Deleting Your Changes.
Accepting Changes from Another User.
Rejecting Changes from Another User.
Setting Track Change Options.
Adding Comments to a Workbook.
Inserting a Comment.
Viewing Comments.
Editing a Comment.
Deleting a Comment.
Viewing Comments from Another User.
I'm going to a some more description or links on each topics.
This post will be the index of it.
However, this will be a long long long project...
Section 1. Excel Essentials
Starting Excel.
Working in the Excel Window.
Using the On-Screen Tools.
Using the Office Button.
Changing Excel’s View.
Splitting a Window.
Opening a New Window.
Working with an Existing Workbook.
Opening an Existing Workbook.
Navigating a Worksheet.
Entering Data in a Worksheet.
Selecting, Editing, and Deleting a Cell’s
Quick-Printing a Worksheet.
Saving an Edited Workbook.
Closing a Workbook.
Section 2. Creating and Editing a Workbook.
Creating a Workbook.
Starting a Sales Report from Scratch.
Populating a Worksheet with Data.
Entering Labels.
Entering Dates.
Entering Values.
Filling a Series with AutoFill.
Cutting, Copying, and Pasting Data.
Copying a Data Series with the Mouse.
Moving a Data Series with the Mouse.
Copying and Pasting Data.
Cutting and Pasting Data.
Editing a Workbook’s Properties.
Setting Basic Properties.
Assigning Keywords to a Document.
Printing a Worksheet.
Setting the Print Area.
Using Print Preview.
Choosing a Printer.
Setting Other Printing Options.
Saving a Workbook for the First Time.
Saving a Workbook under a Different Name.
Saving a Workbook for use in a Previous Version of Excel.
Choosing a Different File Format.
Section 3. Formatting Cells and Ranges.
Inserting and Deleting Cells.
Adding a New Cell to a Worksheet.
Deleting a Cell from a Worksheet.
Manually Formatting Cell
Selecting Cells and Ranges.
Aligning a Cell’s
Choosing Fonts and Font Sizes.
Applying Special Character Attributes.
Changing Font Color.
Filling Cells with Color.
Applying Number Formats.
Wrapping Text in a Cell.
Merging and Splitting Cells.
Placing Borders around a Cell.
Copying Cell Formatting with the Format Painter.
Formatting Cells with Styles.
Applying a Cell Style.
Modifying a Cell Style.
Working with Hyperlinked Data.
Placing a Hyperlink in a Cell.
Removing a Hyperlink.
Applying Conditional Formatting to Cells.
Using the Rule Manager to Apply Conditional Formats.
Allowing Multiple Conditional Formatting Rules to be True.
Applying Specific Conditional Formats.
Clearing a Cell’s Formatting.
Section 4. Worksheet Formatting.
Working with Rows and Columns.
Inserting or Deleting a Row or Column.
Modifying Row Height or Column Width.
Formatting an Entire Row or Column.
Hiding and Unhiding a Row or Column.
Using Themes.
Choosing a Theme for a Worksheet.
Customizing a Theme.
Modifying a Worksheet’s On-Screen Appearance.
Formatting a Worksheet’s Background.
Changing the Color of a Worksheet’s Tab.
Viewing and Printing a Worksheet’s Gridlines.
Viewing and Printing Column and Row Headings.
Inserting Headers and Footers.
Adding Page Numbers to a Worksheet.
Inserting a Built-In Header or Footer.
Adding Content to a Header or Footer.
Page Layout.
Adding and Moving a Page Break.
Setting Margins.
Setting a Worksheet’s Orientation on the Page.
Scaling a Worksheet to Fit on a Printed Page.
Section 5. Managing Worksheets.
Organizing Worksheets.
Copying a Worksheet.
Rearranging the Worksheets in a Workbook.
Renaming a Worksheet.
Hiding and Unhiding a Worksheet.
Inserting a New Worksheet into a Workbook.
Deleting a Worksheet from a Workbook.
Finding and Replacing Data.
Locating Data with the Find Command.
Replacing Data with the Replace Command.
Navigating a Worksheet with the Go To Command.
Section 6. Working With Data.
Ensuring Your Data’s Integrity.
Restricting Cell Entries to Certain Data Types.
Allowing Only Specific Values to Be Entered in Cells.
Removing Duplicate Cells, Rows, or Columns from a Worksheet.
Sorting Data.
Sorting Data on a Single Criterion.
Sorting Data on Multiple Criteria.
Sorting Data by Using Conditional Formatting.
Sorting Data By Using Cell Attributes.
Filtering Data.
Using AutoFilter.
Creating a Custom AutoFilter.
Filtering Data by Using Conditional Formatting.
Filtering Data by Using Cell Attributes.
Subtotaling Data.
Grouping and Ungrouping Data for Subtotaling.
Subtotaling Data in a List.
Setting Up Data in Table Format.
Formatting a Table with a Quick Style.
Inserting a Row for Totals in a Table.
Add and Remove Rows or Columns in a Table.
Section 7. Using Basic Formulas and Functions.
Building Basic Formulas.
Creating a Formula That Performs Addition.
Creating a Formula That Performs Subtraction.
Creating a Formula The Performs Multiplication.
Creating a Formula That Performs Division.
Workplace Ready (Starting a Worksheet from a Template, with focus on built-in formulas?).
Using Cell References in Formulas.
Using Relative Cell References in a Formula.
Using Absolute Cell References in a Formula.
Referring to Data in Another Worksheet.
Referring to Data in Another Workbook.
Using Cell Ranges in Formulas.
Naming a Range.
Changing a Range’s Size.
Keeping Track of Ranges.
Creating a Formula That Operates on a Named Range.
Summarizing Data with Functions.
Using SUM.
Using COUNT.
Using COUNTA.
Using AVERAGE.
Using MIN.
Using MAX.
Using Formulas to Create Subtotals.
Selecting Ranges for Subtotaling.
Modifying a Range in a Subtotal.
Building Formulas to Subtotal and Total.
Controlling the Appearance of Formulas.
Displaying Formulas on the Screen.
Printing Formulas.
Section 8. Using More Advanced Formulas.
Using Formulas to Apply Conditional Formatting.
Using SUMIF.
Using SUMIFS.
Using COUNTIF.
Using COUNTIFS.
Using AVERAGEIF.
Using AVERAGEIFS.
Using Formulas to Look Up Data in a Workbook.
Using VLOOKUP.
Using HLOOKUP.
Adding Conditional Logic Functions to Formulas.
Using IF.
Using AND.
Using OR.
Using NOT.
Using IFERROR.
Using Formulas to Format Text.
Using PROPER.
Using UPPER.
Using LOWER.
Using Formulas to Modify Text.
Using SUBSTITUTE.
Using a Formula to Convert Text to Columns.
Section 9. Creating Charts from Your Data.
Building Charts.
Selecting Data to Include in a Chart.
Choosing the Right Chart for Your Data.
Creating a Bar Chart.
Formatting a Chart with a Quick Style.
Manually Formatting the Parts of a Chart.
Changing the Chart’s Fill Color or Pattern.
Changing the Chart’s Border Line.
Formatting the Data Series.
Modifying the Chart’s Legend.
Modifying a Chart.
Adding Elements to a Chart.
Deleting Elements from a Chart.
Moving a Chart.
Resizing a Chart.
Choosing a Different Chart Type.
Section 10. Adding Pictures and Shapes to a Worksheet.
Inserting Pictures.
Inserting a Picture from a File.
Inserting a Clip Art Picture.
Using SmartArt Graphics.
Adding Shapes.
Drawing Lines.
Inserting Basic Shapes.
Drawing a Block Arrow.
Creating a Flowchart.
Copying or Moving a Graphic.
Formatting Graphics.
Resizing a Graphic.
Rotating a Graphic.
Resetting a Picture to Its Original State.
Section 11. Securing and Sharing Documents.
Securing Your Work before Sharing It with Others.
Protecting a Workbook or Worksheet.
Setting Access Permissions to a Workbook.
Allowing Multiple Users to Edit a Workbook Simultaneously.
Marking a Document as Final.
Digitally Signing a Workbook.
Using the Document Inspector.
Distributing a Workbook by E-Mail.
Tracking Changes to a Workbook.
Turning Change-Tracking On and Off.
Inserting Tracked Changes.
Deleting Your Changes.
Accepting Changes from Another User.
Rejecting Changes from Another User.
Setting Track Change Options.
Adding Comments to a Workbook.
Inserting a Comment.
Viewing Comments.
Editing a Comment.
Deleting a Comment.
Viewing Comments from Another User.
2009-06-14
MCAS: 77-602 Excel Exam Syllabus breakdown
The Excel 2007 exam syllabus has many changes comparing to the previous exam (2003, 2003 Expert)
The objectives are also became abstracted. The content in 2003 are much detailed to task level.
If you get confused with some 2007 sub-topic.
let's check with the breakdown below. The breakdown is summarized from the official study guide.
1. Creating and Manipulating Data
1.1. Insert data by using AutoFill
- Filling Series
- AutoFill Option on adjacent cell e.g. format
- Custom Fill List
- Copy text/format to adjacent cell
1.2. Ensure data integrity
- Validation
- Remove Duplicate Rows
1.3. Modify cell contents and formats
- Paste special
1.4. Change Worksheet Views
- page layout: Views (e.g. page break view)
- Zoom
- Ribbon Display/Formula bar
- Freeze and split
- Multiple Window
1.5. Manage worksheets
- Hide/Show
- moving and copying
2. Formatting Data and Content
2.1. Format worksheets
-Themes(Apply,Modify,Custom Template)
-Page Layout: Grid lines and heading
-Worksheet Tabs name/Color/Background(WordArts)
2.2. Insert and modify rows and columns
- Insert/Delete, Hide/Show, Height/Width/AutoFit,
- Other Formating e.g. TextWrap/Align/Orientation
2.3. Format cells and cell content
- Standard Format(curreny/text/date...) , Custom Format
- Hyperlinks
- Merged Cell
- Formating(Font,border)
- Cell styles
2.4. Format data as a table
- Include Table Style,Total Row
3. Creating and Modifying Formulas
3.1. Reference data in formulas
- absolute reference, 3D reference
- name: define, manage
3.2. Summarize data using a formula
- sum/count/counta(Count empty)/average/min/max
3.3. Summarize data using subtotals
- subtotal (outlining)
3.4. Conditionally summarize data by using a formula
- averageif,countif,sumif,averageifs,countifs,sumifs
3.5. Look up data by using a formula
- vlookup/hlookup
3.6. Use conditional logic in a formula
- if,and,or,not,iferror
3.7. Format or modify text by using formulas
- lower,proper,upper,
- replace substitute
- text to columns feature
3.8. Display and print formulas
- display formula (ctrl+`)
4. Presenting Data Visually
4.1. Create and format charts
plot chart-chart type, switch column
moving to another sheet
sizing, format ->size
4.2. Modify charts
editing data
range selector
chart element
chart title/format,axes/legend, data labels,gridlines
4.3. Apply conditional formatting
4.4. Insert and modify illustrations
- insert/replace
- insert in footer
- smart arts
- sharps/replace/add text/modify
4.5. Outline data
4.6. Sort and filter data
5. Collaborating and Securing Data
5.1. Manage changes to workbooks
- change tracking
- comment
5.2. Protect and share workbooks
- password protect workbooks
- workbook/worksheet protection
- workbook sharing
5.3. Prepare workbooks for distribution
- workbook properties
- document inspectors
- restrict permission
- digital signatures
- finalizing
5.4. Save workbooks
- file format
- compatibiltiy checker
5.5. Set print options for printing data, worksheets, and workbooks
- page break
- page setup
- header and footer
Sub topics removed from the final syllabus (May be merged with others)
5.6. Filter data by using AutoFilter
5.7. Filter and sort data by using conditional formatting
5.8. Filter and sort data by using cell attributes
However, It's recommended to practice some feature not appeared but related too, for example, pivot table.
The objectives are also became abstracted. The content in 2003 are much detailed to task level.
If you get confused with some 2007 sub-topic.
let's check with the breakdown below. The breakdown is summarized from the official study guide.
1. Creating and Manipulating Data
1.1. Insert data by using AutoFill
- Filling Series
- AutoFill Option on adjacent cell e.g. format
- Custom Fill List
- Copy text/format to adjacent cell
1.2. Ensure data integrity
- Validation
- Remove Duplicate Rows
1.3. Modify cell contents and formats
- Paste special
1.4. Change Worksheet Views
- page layout: Views (e.g. page break view)
- Zoom
- Ribbon Display/Formula bar
- Freeze and split
- Multiple Window
1.5. Manage worksheets
- Hide/Show
- moving and copying
2. Formatting Data and Content
2.1. Format worksheets
-Themes(Apply,Modify,Custom Template)
-Page Layout: Grid lines and heading
-Worksheet Tabs name/Color/Background(WordArts)
2.2. Insert and modify rows and columns
- Insert/Delete, Hide/Show, Height/Width/AutoFit,
- Other Formating e.g. TextWrap/Align/Orientation
2.3. Format cells and cell content
- Standard Format(curreny/text/date...) , Custom Format
- Hyperlinks
- Merged Cell
- Formating(Font,border)
- Cell styles
2.4. Format data as a table
- Include Table Style,Total Row
3. Creating and Modifying Formulas
3.1. Reference data in formulas
- absolute reference, 3D reference
- name: define, manage
3.2. Summarize data using a formula
- sum/count/counta(Count empty)/average/min/max
3.3. Summarize data using subtotals
- subtotal (outlining)
3.4. Conditionally summarize data by using a formula
- averageif,countif,sumif,averageifs,countifs,sumifs
3.5. Look up data by using a formula
- vlookup/hlookup
3.6. Use conditional logic in a formula
- if,and,or,not,iferror
3.7. Format or modify text by using formulas
- lower,proper,upper,
- replace substitute
- text to columns feature
3.8. Display and print formulas
- display formula (ctrl+`)
4. Presenting Data Visually
4.1. Create and format charts
plot chart-chart type, switch column
moving to another sheet
sizing, format ->size
4.2. Modify charts
editing data
range selector
chart element
chart title/format,axes/legend, data labels,gridlines
4.3. Apply conditional formatting
4.4. Insert and modify illustrations
- insert/replace
- insert in footer
- smart arts
- sharps/replace/add text/modify
4.5. Outline data
4.6. Sort and filter data
5. Collaborating and Securing Data
5.1. Manage changes to workbooks
- change tracking
- comment
5.2. Protect and share workbooks
- password protect workbooks
- workbook/worksheet protection
- workbook sharing
5.3. Prepare workbooks for distribution
- workbook properties
- document inspectors
- restrict permission
- digital signatures
- finalizing
5.4. Save workbooks
- file format
- compatibiltiy checker
5.5. Set print options for printing data, worksheets, and workbooks
- page break
- page setup
- header and footer
Sub topics removed from the final syllabus (May be merged with others)
5.6. Filter data by using AutoFilter
5.7. Filter and sort data by using conditional formatting
5.8. Filter and sort data by using cell attributes
However, It's recommended to practice some feature not appeared but related too, for example, pivot table.
2009-05-08
MCAS: Tips on passing it
Unlike most MC-series exams, the MCAS is testing on the hands-on skill.
The preparation and exam experience is much different than some multiple choice exams.
If you are on the way to take the first exam, let's review some points that can you pass the exam easily.
Preparation:
1. Practice the items in the preparation guide at least two times.
http://www.microsoft.com/learning/en/us/exams/77-602.mspx
And don't skip any common formula (e.g. financial-pmt,statistical-variance, text- len/left,counting:counta/subtotal,...)
2. Practice all related function of those items
In Excel, be able to use not only AutoFilter but also Advanced Filter. (Example from Certcities:see links below).
Since the help feature is no longer available in exam, when meeting diffculties during practice, you should review the help first, other than just skip it.
3. Take a look at each option of a function in deep
Not only just search where to set the format of a shape, but also looking at what kind of formatting can be done. e.g. How to set 3-D format, what kind of 3-D rotation preset available,
what kinds of dash type available for line, ...
4.Study the Excel Option well.
For example, where to set R1C1, how to set auto calculation type, how to turn off the grid...
This part may be too many things to remember. However, a short review just before exam could save your times during exam.
Going to exam:
1. Pick your favourite time period. I always take the exam at Morning, so it is no need for me to "worry" about the exam at the rest of the day. (The exam is instantly marked, exam score is presented just after the exam). However, if you think you are more smarter at night, just go ahead~
2. Pack Lightly, it's no need to bring pencil/paper, they will offer you a writing board on this.
During exams:
1. Read Carefully
Although, most of the questions are very straight forward. It's recommended to consider every words in the question.
For example, a question may ask you to print the workbook in one print action.
Other than to select each worksheet and print, you can select the "Entire Workbook" in the print dialog.
2.Reset!(Restart the Question)
If have taken some trial actions during the task, just reset it and take all the right actions only. The reset will not deduct your marks, but a redundant click would do so!
The reset will affect the current question only.
3.Time.
Don't be panic, you must have it enough.
There still time left even you reset each questions for a few times (1-2 times for medium questions. 2-3 times for complicated questions), you could also skip the questions that you didn't get it in that moment, and back when other questions are done.
4.Do Only What You're Told
Just click next after you done what the instructions said.
No need to "tidy up" the stuffs, or to save the worbooks, It may even deduct your marks!
The example in Certcities about copy range is good too.
Reference Arcticle:
http://certcities.com/editorial/tips/story.asp?EditorialsID=19
The preparation and exam experience is much different than some multiple choice exams.
If you are on the way to take the first exam, let's review some points that can you pass the exam easily.
Preparation:
1. Practice the items in the preparation guide at least two times.
http://www.microsoft.com/learning/en/us/exams/77-602.mspx
And don't skip any common formula (e.g. financial-pmt,statistical-variance, text- len/left,counting:counta/subtotal,...)
2. Practice all related function of those items
In Excel, be able to use not only AutoFilter but also Advanced Filter. (Example from Certcities:see links below).
Since the help feature is no longer available in exam, when meeting diffculties during practice, you should review the help first, other than just skip it.
3. Take a look at each option of a function in deep
Not only just search where to set the format of a shape, but also looking at what kind of formatting can be done. e.g. How to set 3-D format, what kind of 3-D rotation preset available,
what kinds of dash type available for line, ...
4.Study the Excel Option well.
For example, where to set R1C1, how to set auto calculation type, how to turn off the grid...
This part may be too many things to remember. However, a short review just before exam could save your times during exam.
Going to exam:
1. Pick your favourite time period. I always take the exam at Morning, so it is no need for me to "worry" about the exam at the rest of the day. (The exam is instantly marked, exam score is presented just after the exam). However, if you think you are more smarter at night, just go ahead~
2. Pack Lightly, it's no need to bring pencil/paper, they will offer you a writing board on this.
During exams:
1. Read Carefully
Although, most of the questions are very straight forward. It's recommended to consider every words in the question.
For example, a question may ask you to print the workbook in one print action.
Other than to select each worksheet and print, you can select the "Entire Workbook" in the print dialog.
2.Reset!(Restart the Question)
If have taken some trial actions during the task, just reset it and take all the right actions only. The reset will not deduct your marks, but a redundant click would do so!
The reset will affect the current question only.
3.Time.
Don't be panic, you must have it enough.
There still time left even you reset each questions for a few times (1-2 times for medium questions. 2-3 times for complicated questions), you could also skip the questions that you didn't get it in that moment, and back when other questions are done.
4.Do Only What You're Told
Just click next after you done what the instructions said.
No need to "tidy up" the stuffs, or to save the worbooks, It may even deduct your marks!
The example in Certcities about copy range is good too.
Reference Arcticle:
http://certcities.com/editorial/tips/story.asp?EditorialsID=19
2009-04-04
MCAS: A shortcut key rumor
Just An old rumor on shortcut keys in MCAS exam, particularly in "Office Specialist" generation:
The use of shortcut key may results in losting marks
I think this issue may be true sometimes, if redundant shortcut key is issued, for example, using keyboard arrow to locate a cell instead of using a mouse click.
Since the redundant commands may let the testing system not able to compare it with the "model answer".
By the way, I do use ctrl+B, ctrl+C/V in the MCAS exams. It is just fine, no marks deducted.
The use of shortcut key may results in losting marks
I think this issue may be true sometimes, if redundant shortcut key is issued, for example, using keyboard arrow to locate a cell instead of using a mouse click.
Since the redundant commands may let the testing system not able to compare it with the "model answer".
By the way, I do use ctrl+B, ctrl+C/V in the MCAS exams. It is just fine, no marks deducted.
2009-03-17
Excel MCAS Syllabus
I will try to fill in the belows with video/step by step screenshot
0.Office->1.New Worksheet Tab ->right click->Insert
0.Office->2.Open
0.Office->3.Save
0.Office->4.Save as
0.Office->5.Print
0.Office->6.Prepare->1.Properties
0.Office->6.Prepare->2.Inspect/Encrypt/Signature/Final/Compatibility
0.Office->7.Send
Q.Quick Access Toolbar->2-3 Undo Redo
Q.Quick Access Toolbar->Compare and merge workbooks
1.Home->1.Clipboard
1.Home->2.Font
1.Home->3.Alignment
1.Home->4.Numbers
1.Home->5.Styles->1.Conditional Format
1.Home->5.Styles->2.Format as Table
1.Home->5.Styles->3.Cells style
1.Home->6.Cells->1.Insert/2.Delete
1.Home->6.Cells->3.Format->1.Cell Sizes
1.Home->6.Cells->3.Format->2.Visibility
1.Home->6.Cells->1.Insert/2.Delete
1.Home->6.Cells->3.Format->2.Visibility
1.Home->6.Cells->3.Format->3.Organize Sheet
1.Home->6.Cells->3.Format->4.Protect
1.Home->6.Cells->3.Format->4.Format Cell
1.Home->7.Editing->1.Autosum
1.Home->7.Editing->2.Fill
1.Home->7.Editing->3.Clear
1.Home->7.Editing->3.Sort & Filter->1.Sort
1.Home->7.Editing->3.Sort & Filter->2.Filter
1.Home->7.Editing->4.Find
1.Home->7.Editing->4.Find
2.Insert->1.tables->1.Pivot Tables
2.Insert->1.tables->2.Table
2.Insert->2.Illustration>1.Picture/2.Clipart/3.Shape
2.Insert->2.Illustration>4.Smart Arts
2.Insert->3.Chart
C.Chart
2.Insert->4.Hyperlink
2.Insert->5.Text->1,3,4,5
2.Insert->5.Text->6-object
2.Insert->5.Text->2.header&footer H.header&footer
3.Page Layout->1.Themes
3.Page Layout->2.Page Setup->1.Margin
3.Page Layout->2.Page Setup->2.Orientation/3.Size 3.Page Layout->3.Scale to Fit
3.Page Layout->2.Page Setup->4 Print Area
3.Page Layout->2.Page Setup->5 Page break
3.Page Layout->2.Page Setup->6 Background
3.Page Layout->2.Page Setup->7 Print titles
3.Page Layout->4.Sheet Options
3.Page Layout->5.Arrange
4.Formula->1.Function Library Formula Bar
4.Formula->1.Function Library->Autosum/math
4.Formula->1.Function Library->math
4.Formula->1.Function Library->Lookup&Ref
4.Formula->1.Function Library->logical
4.Formula->1.Function Library->Text
4.Formula->1.Function Library->Financial
4.Formula->1.Function Library->Date&Time
4.Formula->1.Function Library->Insert function
4.Formula->2.Defined Name->1.Name Manager/2.Define Name/4.Create from selection
4.Formula->2.Defined Name->3. Use in formula
4.Formula->3.Formula Auditing->1.Trace Precedent/2.Dependents/3.Remove Arrows
4.Formula->3.Formula Auditing->4.Show Formula
4.Formula->3.Formula Auditing->5.Error Checking
4.Formula->3.Formula Auditing->6.Evaluate formula/7.watch
5.Data->1.Get External Data->1.From Access 4.From other Sources
5.Data->2.Conenction->3.Properties
5.Data->1.Get External Data->4.From other Sources 5.Data->2.Conenction->3.Properties
5.Data->1.Get External Data->2.From Web
5.Data->2.Conenction->3.Properties
5.Data->1.Get External Data->2.From Text
5.Data->4.Data tools->Text to Columns
5.Data->2.Conenction->4.Edit Links
5.Data->3.Sort&Filter->1.Sort
5.Data->3.Sort&Filter->2.Filter->1.Filter,Clear/Reapply
5.Data->4.Data tools->2.Remove Duplicates
5.Data->3.Sort&Filter->2.Filter->4.Advanced Filter
5.Data->4.Data tools->3.Validation
5.Data->4.Data tools->4.Consolidate
5.Data->4.Data tools->5.What-if->1.Scenario
5.Data->4.Data tools->5.What-if->2.Goal Seek
5.Data->4.Data tools->5.What-if->3.Table
5.Data->5.Analysis->Solver
5.Data->6.Outline->1.Group
5.Data->6.Outline->2.unGroup"
5.Data->6.Outline->3.Subtotal
6.Review->1.Spelling
6.Review->2.Research/3.Treasure/4.Translate"
6.Review->2.Comment
6.Review->3.Changes->1.Protect worksheet/2.Protect workbook/5.Allow user to edit ranges
6.Review->3.Changes->3.Share workbook 4.Protect and share workbook
6.Review->3.Changes->6.Track Changes
7.View->1.Workbook Views
7.View->2.Show/Hide
7.View->3.Zoom
7.View->4.Window
7.View->4.Window->3.Freeze/4.Split
7.View->4.Window->9.workspace
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