WOW...I passed with 857/900 and this was my first attempt and also my first Microsoft exam. I though my brain would fall appart...I concentrated so hard no to step on a mine
The feeling was so great when I saw my pass score since I studied for a very long time. This test wasn't easy and I went through all the questions two times to be on the safe side. I got no SIMS but a lot of graphic questions.
I used the following to prepare:
* MindLeaders E-learning
* Sybex
* Microsoft Training kit (did not spend to much time with that book).
* Exam CRAM
* Exam CRAM study questions
* Preplogic MEGA guide
* Info I found in this superb forum
Also downloadedall free demo test I could find (Transcender, SelfTest, uCertify etc).
I found the test to be a lot like (not the questions ,the format) the MeasureUP prepquestions you got on the Microsoft Training kit (several hundred questions).
My advice is to take A+ and Network+ before any Microsoft exam - You need to know a lot about basic networking + hardware combined with the study guides/training kits for the Microsoft exam. Or else it will be pretty hard to pass...that is my opinion from todays scenario with my first Microsoft exam.
Next is 70-290 and then 70-291 to become MCSA.
Tonight it's "gamenight" with no reading...I deserve a break before 70-290.
BEST OF LUCK TO ALL OF YOU THAT HAVEN'T PASSED YET
