How many questions are on a Microsoft Certification exam?

Understanding Microsoft Certification Exam Format

Getting ready for a Microsoft Certification exam can feel like a big step. One of the most common questions people ask is about the number of questions they'll face during the test. While the exact number can vary depending on which certification you're going for, most Microsoft exams have between 40 to 60 questions. These questions need to be finished within the time limit, which is usually around two hours.

Here's a table summarizing the top Microsoft and Azure certification exams, along with their typical number of questions and exam durations:

Types of Questions You'll Encounter

Microsoft designs their certification tests to check your knowledge in different ways. You might get multiple-choice questions where you pick one right answer from several choices. Sometimes you'll get questions that want you to pick more than one correct answer. There are also case studies where you read about a situation and then answer questions about it. You might even come across questions that ask you to put steps in the right order or match items from two different lists. The mix of question types helps Microsoft make sure you really know your stuff and aren't just good at guessing.

Time Management During the Exam

With two hours to answer all the questions, you'll need to manage your time well. Most people spend about two minutes on each question, but some might need more time than others. If you find a tricky question, it's smart to mark it and come back to it later. This way, you don't spend too much time on one question and run out of time for the others. The computer will display how much time you have left, so you can track your pace as needed.

Scoring and Passing Requirements

Microsoft uses a scoring system that goes from 1 to 1,000 points. To pass most certification exams, you need to score at least 700 points. This doesn't mean you need to get every question right to pass. The scoring system considers how hard each question is and gives more points for tougher questions. This means you could miss some questions and still pass if you get enough of the harder ones right. Each question type might be worth different points too, so it's good to give your best effort on all of them.

Getting Ready for Test Day

When you're studying for your Microsoft Certification exam, try to practice with different types of questions. This helps you feel more comfortable on test day. Make sure you understand the time limits and practice working within them. It's also helpful to learn about the tools available during the test, like being able to mark questions to look at later or cross out wrong answers in multiple choice questions. The more familiar you are with what to expect, the more relaxed you'll feel when you sit down to take the exam.