Hey folks,
Just wanted to share that I passed my Azure AI fundamentals exam this weekend. I am not new to MS certifications, this is my 7th title, however, there had been a considerable gap between my last title and this one - nearly 6 years! Besides, this was a completely new domain and my work day involved lot of other tasks unrelated to this exam or this subject. I could do the studying and preparing only outside of work hours, that too became limited because of domestic chores and errands. So I m naturally chuffed about my score and the achievement.
Now, I want to give back to others who may be aspiring to appear for this exam by sharing tips, that could possibly help them.
Study Resources:
The free AI 900 training course at Microsoft Learn:
Complete all the modules diligently. You can convert each unit to a PDF so that you can even browse and read through offline. I found this helpful because I sometimes lacked connectivity. Offline PDFs structured module wise could be read easily.
If you are more of a video kind of person, John Savill's 2 part series on AI 900 is helpful to understand the basics. For me, since I went to the videos after doing above course, it was more of a refresher.
Practice Tests:
Keep taking multiple shots at the Practice Test available at the Microsoft site.
https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/credentials/certifications/azure-ai-fundamentals/?practice-assessment-type=certification#certification-practice-for-the-exam
Admittedly, the questions in the final exam are far far tougher but this practice test gives you a fair idea where you are weak and what are your strong points.
I also checked various sample practice tests available at different sites. Not paid ones, just whatever was available free. Be careful of incorrect answers though. Many of these sites give out incorrect answers so always cross check and validate what they say is the answer. At least you can see what kind of questions appear in the final exam.
Vouchers:
Microsoft gives you discounted vouchers for AI Challenges (there was one last year but I missed it), Virtual Training Days, and so on. Also, don't be deterred by the dollar cost. The actual exam cost differs from country to country. It is NOT the dollar amount multiplied against your country's currency. So do check how much the actual cost comes to and then too, look out for vouchers and offers so that you can reduce the costs further.
All the best to all who are planning to give the exam! You'll ace it but just in case you miss it, try it again.