So my work is having me take the HDA (Helpdesk Analyst Certification) test, HD0-100.
I enrolled in the online coursework. Studied the material, took 2 practice tests which I scored an 89 and 90 on, then go to take the real test. I failed it. By 1 question. The passing mark is 77%, I scored a 76%. WTF.
Well, a couple things, first, the practice tests were vastly different in the format and structure of their questions than on the real test. Scoring well on these builds up an extremely false sense of confidence. The actual test had questions where you could easily eliminate 2 of the answers on mulitple choice portion, but the remaining two were worded in such a way as to make you doubt yourself and mark the wrong answer.
Also, the appendix in the coursework. The test seems to be nearly 80% derived directly from the appendix. As I have never read an appendix from any book before, I skipped over valuable information that would have been available to me and in my arsenal that would have allowed me to pass the test. Oh well. I shall soon retake it after going over things a bit, and reading over that appendix a few more times. Then, it is on to CCNA studies, I just hope I don't screw that one up too.
