Decoding IT Certification Exam Questions
EXAM TIPS
This article provides essential strategies for understanding and correctly answering tricky IT certification exam questions, including handling tricky wording, double negatives, and scenario-based questions.
Certification exams are designed to test not just your knowledge but also your ability to apply it in real-world scenarios. Many questions are intentionally worded to challenge you, and misunderstanding them can cost you valuable points. Here’s how to break down and decode exam questions effectively.
1. Read the Question Carefully
Many test-takers make the mistake of skimming questions too quickly, leading to misinterpretation.
Read slowly and deliberately to understand the full context.
Identify keywords and action words (e.g., "best," "first," "most secure").
Watch out for negatives (e.g., "Which of the following is NOT true?").
2. Identify the Type of Question
Understanding the question type helps you approach it effectively:
Multiple-choice: May include distractors (wrong but plausible answers).
Performance-based: Requires hands-on knowledge (e.g., configuring a virtual lab).
Scenario-based: Tests real-world application of concepts.
Matching/Drag-and-Drop: Requires understanding relationships between terms.
3. Watch for Double Negatives and Trick Wording
Exams often use double negatives or misleading phrasing to confuse test-takers.
Example: Which of the following is NOT an insecure protocol?
Reword it: Which protocol is secure?
Break complex sentences down into simpler parts for clarity.
4. Focus on the Most Correct Answer
Sometimes, multiple answers may seem correct, but one is the best answer.
Eliminate obviously incorrect options first.
Consider which answer is most applicable to the scenario.
Refer back to best practices and industry standards.
5. Understand Common Exam Phrasing
Certain words indicate what type of answer the exam is looking for:
"First" – What should be done before anything else?
"Best" – Multiple answers may be correct, but which is the best practice?
"Most likely" – A probable scenario, rather than a guarantee.
"Least" – Look for an answer that doesn’t fit the trend.
6. Use the Process of Elimination
If unsure, eliminate wrong answers to increase your chances of selecting the right one.
Remove answers that are factually incorrect.
Discard extreme answers (e.g., “always” or “never” tend to be incorrect).
Compare remaining options logically and choose the most appropriate one.
7. Be Cautious of Absolute Statements
Words like "always," "never," and "must" often indicate incorrect answers unless discussing strict rules (e.g., compliance regulations).
8. Manage Your Time Wisely
Spending too much time on one question can hurt your performance overall.
If unsure, mark the question for review and move on.
Answer easier questions first to build confidence.
Allocate extra time for performance-based questions.
9. Review Your Answers If Time Allows
If you finish early, go back and review flagged questions:
Ensure you didn’t misread anything.
Double-check tricky questions with negatives.
Trust your first instinct unless you discover a clear mistake.
Final Thoughts
Decoding IT certification exam questions is a skill that improves with practice. By carefully reading each question, identifying key phrases, and using elimination strategies, you can improve your accuracy and confidence. Prepare thoroughly, stay calm, and apply these techniques on exam day—success is within reach!