MCDBA Exam prep 2

[cricketer1]

I don't know if this is the right place to ask this. Anyway, I would like to prepare for the MCDBA (MS SQL Server DBA certification). Can anyone guide me the best approach to preparing for these exams. I have seen so many books, but can't figure out the right ones. I have been SQL Server 7.0 user/programmer for almost a year. So what would be the best way for me to prepare for these exams.

And also which track should I take, the Win NT or Win2K. I have little to non experience of adminstering WindowsNT/2K server, which is one of the first exams for this certification.

Thanks

 

[DougP]

First is go to Microsofts WEB site

http://www.microsoft.com/trainingandservices/redirect/training.htm

and find the MCDBA requirements. There are 5 tests to pass, or were for NT4/SQL7 track. 2 are Operating system , 2 are SQL based and one elective as a Front end in C language or VB or something else.

The WEB site lists all of it and also I would recommend you get a few practice tests that are PC based. Transcender is a good one.

http://www.transcender.com

Set your sites on ONE test and one test only. Study and get everything you can get your hands on for that one test. Think of nothing else. Then go to the next test with the same vigor.
I was going that route but ran out of time before they retired the NT4 track back in Feb this year.
I passed NT4 Server and NT4 workstation and became an MCP at least. “NT in the Enterprise” was a real awakening. I tried twice with out luck and Feb 28 was here before I knew it.

Now if you plan your tests wisely you can end up with two certifications MCDBA and MCSE. You need to pass 7 or 8 tests. The key is the electives and taking one that satisfies both tracks. In My case it was the Visual Basic Exam.
But the number of people that have both on the planet are few to none.


DougP, MCP

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[cricketer1]

Thanks for the useful tips. I will look at the the transcender site for sure. Are there any good books out there you can recommend besides taking the practice tests.

Thanks

 

[BluNozr]

I have found the New Rider series of book very helpful in my studies, I have used 2 for the NT 4.0 track and one for the SQL 7.0 Admin exam, pass all 3. I'm working on SQL Designing and Implenting Databases, and the New Rider is good so far.