You can do this! Pass exam 70-461.

It may seem intimidating, but you can pass Exam 70-461 Querying SQL Server. All it takes is a bit of planning and basic study tips.

AsapScience explains in less than four minutes study habits you can use today to get the most out of your exam prep time.

Get started on the right foot and put these nine tips into action.

Here is my take on it:

Use Small Short Study Sessions – don’t try to cram for the test. It is better to study in 20 thirty minute sessions than it is in one ten-hour stretch. Also, if you’re busy like I am, it is easier to set aside thirty minutes each day at work or home to do so.

Be consistent – Set up a specific time to study each day and stick to it. I like to block out time at work in my calendar so people can bug me. For me it worked best to block out time a half hour after I arrived. For personal stuff, I set aside time just after the kids have settled down for bed – less interruptions!

Use Flashcards – You’ll use your time more wisely if you use flashcards to review material. Re reading material or skimming highlights isn’t as effective as flashcards. You can purchase SQL Flashcards, but you’ll learn more by making your own.

Have a specific goal for each study session – make a goal for each session. In fact, why not make a flash card or two after each session. This will help you reinforce what you have just learned.

Explain what you Learned – As you learn new material explain it to a friend or co-worker. It’s a really good test to see whether you truly understand it. If you can’t explain it simply, you don’t know it well enough.

Practice! Practice! Practice! – You do have SQL Server installed and practice using the adventure works database don’t you? If not, you need to get it now!

Have a Study Area – set up a designated area to study. Make sure you have all the materials you’ll need readily available. If you study at work, book a conference room to avoid interruptions.

Focus – Turn off that music! Most music or chatter reduces your concentration levels.

Put Away the Phone – Don’t let texts and social media interrupt your study time. You’re studying for a focused thirty minutes. You’re peeps can live without you for that long. :)

The 70-461 Study Plan

To help with this I’ve put together a plan you can use to get you started. This will help you in several ways:

It compliments the 9 best study habits. Having a plan ensures you consistently study and in the right amount. You’ll avoid cramming. The plan sequences what you should learn first. Learn basic concepts and build upon them.

Here is beginning of the plan I’ve put together.

Feel free to use this plan to get started with your certification.