Ace the AZ-900 Azure Fundamentals exam

If you are new to Azure or cloud computing at all, I’d recommend the Microsoft Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900) exam as your first step. This certification is like a beginner’s manual that helps you build a broader understanding of Azure platform and related services.

Even though I managed to successfully pass the exam in just two weeks, I believe every individual has their own learning curve. It’s not only about clearing the certification but gaining knowledge from it. I hope my preparation kit might be beneficial for you. (I’ve compiled a list of study resources, including mock exam websites and, notably, how to obtain a 50% discount coupon.)

As the name suggests, AZ-900 is a part of Microsoft’s “Fundamental” series which tests your ability to demonstrate foundational knowledge of cloud concepts in general and Microsoft Azure in particular. It’s also a great starting point for non-technical candidates who’d like to learn more about Azure.

Exam Details

You can read more on the certification from Microsoft here.

• 40–60 Questions

• The exam length is 45 minutes

• Questions could be a case study, short answers, multiple-choice, mark review, drag, drop, etc.

• To pass, you need a minimum score of 700/1000.

• The exam costs $99 USD.

  
  

Exam Domains

You can download the detailed exam blueprint here.

• Describe cloud concepts (25–30%)

• Describe Azure architecture and services (35–40%)

• Describe Azure management and governance (30–35%)

Study Resources

The best resource you can rely on to clear the exam is the Microsoft’s official learning path https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/training/courses/az-900t00. It clearly reflects the domains and related concepts often asked in the exam.

You can also sign up with DataCamp’s Azure Fundamentals track and also receive 50% discount code after completing the track. I majorly relied on these two resources throughout the preparation. You can try other learning platforms such as Udemy, PluralSight, or free YouTube tutorials https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5abffC-K40c) to customize your learning journey.

Structured Study Time

The key to winning at anything in life boils down to two things: Time management and consistency. Given the constrained timeframe I had set for myself, I dedicated a solid 4–5 hours on weekdays and ramped up my efforts over the weekends. This disciplined routine ensured consistent learning momentum and passing the exam with a score of 810.

Part 1: All about Azure

I spent good time exploring the official study guide as my first step. It is essential to understand the structure of the exam to smartly chalk out a learning plan for yourself. Microsoft Azure Fundamentals Learning Path is definitely the holy grail. In the first ten days, I spent most of my time learning from those modules, which includes theoretical knowledge as well as hands-on lab exercises to gain exposure to the Azure Platform.

I delved into understanding the core services, their functionalities, and how they integrate with one another. Azure Compute, Azure Storage, Azure Networking and Azure Governance are the key pillars of the exam.

Familiarize yourself with concepts like cloud service models (Iaas, Saas, Paas), cost management in Azure, resource locks, subscriptions, management groups, Microsoft Purview, AZ Monitor, Azure Arc, ARM, Azure VMs, Azure storage solutions (LRS, ZRS, GRS, GZRS), and different tiers.

Part 2: Mocks tests and revision

In the final leg of the preparation, I dedicated my time to solving mock tests and practice questions available on Microsoft Learn and ACloudGuru. Attempting these tests, despite being little unprepared, helped me identify my weak areas and get the feel for the actual exam questions. It is not about answering these questions but understanding why a particular answer is correct. Go through all your wrong answers, and right ones too for additional information.

Once you are scoring above 80% in the mocks, you will be ready to take the exam.

My testing experience

I scheduled the test through Pearson Vue online proctoring as it offers the flexibility of taking test from your home. I finished answering all the questions in under 30 minutes, and only reviewed those in the remaining time slot. I cannot emphasize enough on the importance of reading questions carefully and accurately. So, do not rush through even if you think it is easy. I found questions from the networking part little tricky and architectural areas. Post completion of the exam, Microsoft gives you a printout displaying how well you did in each domain.

The constrained timeframe was indeed intense but it was doable. With a structured approach, right resources and effective strategizing, anyone can ace the AZ-900 exam. If I can do it, so can you!

The next step for me is to work on DP-600 Microsoft Certified: Fabric Analytics Engineer Associate exam.

If you have any other questions regarding Azure Fundamentals, Azure Data Fundamentals (DP-900) or PL-300 (Microsoft Certified: Power BI Data Analyst Associate) feel free to reach out to me on LinkedIn.

Good luck on your Azure journey. Happy Studying!