Author Interview: Diana Huggins

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GoCertify: Does it matter in what order the MCSA/MCSE exams are taken? Is there one order that is better than another?

Diana Huggins: I think this is more of personal preference. From my experience, there are certain exams that overlap or build on topics in a previous one. I usually recommend that people begin with the client operating system exam. Chances are they already have experience with Windows 2000 or Windows XP, so taking either of these exams first is a good way to start. Build on what you are already familiar with.

GoCertify: What is the most difficult topic on the exam?

Diana Huggins: That is a difficult question to answer. Everyone is different and what one person finds difficult another may not. For me personally, I always felt that IPSec was the most difficult topic.

GoCertify: How close to the actual types of exam questions are the ones in the book? Are there representations of all types of questions?

Diana Huggins: When I wrote the book, I tried to simulate the actual exam questions. There are a variety of question types in the book that are all based on the types of questions that are likely to appear on the exam.

GoCertify: The free MeasureUp practice test is a strong plus to the book. How does it differ from the two practice exams written in the book? How should it be used?

Diana Huggins: The MeasureUp practice questions also simulate the questions that readers are going to encounter on the exam. The practice test can be used in different modes (study mode/test mode) and contains around the same number of questions that will be on the actual exam.

Once you have worked through the entire study guide including the two practice tests, you should move on to the MeasureUp practice test. Consider using the test in test mode the first time around and see how you fair. You can always go back and complete the test again in study mode for answers and detailed explanations. One of the nice things about the MeasureUp test is that they provide links web sites that provide additional information about a specific topic.

GoCertify: What other advice to you have for MCSA/MCSE candidates?

Diana Huggins: Get all the hands-on experience you can, even if this in just in the comfort of you own home with two computers.

Diana's new book includes a 70-291 cram sheet, chapters of detailed information focusing on the exam objectives, and two practice tests to assess your readiness.

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