Introduction to Computing

[soltran]

This is probably one of the most frustrating exams I have ever taken and not because of any difficulty with the subject matter but more due to the questions and options provided. I scored a 74 on this test but after working in the industry for 20+ years I expected better. Here is a summary of my experience with the Intro to Computing exam.

Test – DANTES Introduction to Computing
Questions – 98
Time – 120 minutes

General Observations

The test questions were basic with an emphasis on software applications, basic hardware, basic programming techniques, basic networking and the Internet usage. If someone has a handle on the terminology and acronyms they will pass the exam. If you have industry training and experience you will have no problems scoring well on the exam. What I found difficult was when a question was asked that went along the lines of – all of the following except one will …..? or What will a computer never be able to do? Or What can’t you do in this type of software package? And then provide options where all options are possible and without any strictly correct answers. In most cases it was obvious which answer they were after but not in all cases and worse than that it changed the mindset from looking for the correct answer to looking for which answer do I think they want. All-in-all I shouldn’t complain too much and the exam took less than 40 minutes so time was never an issue and a pass is a pass.

My Preparation

I didn’t pick up a book or look at a flashcard at all for this exam and relied purely on past experience. For those without experience I suggest that IC is probably all you would need or if it would make you feel more comfortable pick up any recognized text on intro to computing. The subject isn’t very deep and a basic understanding of terms and how to use spreadsheets and word processors would probably get you through it.

There isn’t much else I can offer in regards to advice with this one as for me most of it was second nature. If anyone has any specific questions relating to this exam let me know and I will help if I can.


Best of luck to all

Regards

[kckusek]

Originally Posted by soltran

This is probably one of the most frustrating exams I have ever taken and not because of any difficulty with the subject matter but more due to the questions and options provided. I scored a 74 on this test but after working in the industry for 20+ years I expected better. Here is a summary of my experience with the Intro to Computing exam.

Test – DANTES Introduction to Computing
Questions – 98
Time – 120 minutes

General Observations

The test questions were basic with an emphasis on software applications, basic hardware, basic programming techniques, basic networking and the Internet usage. If someone has a handle on the terminology and acronyms they will pass the exam. If you have industry training and experience you will have no problems scoring well on the exam. What I found difficult was when a question was asked that went along the lines of – all of the following except one will …..? or What will a computer never be able to do? Or What can’t you do in this type of software package? And then provide options where all options are possible and without any strictly correct answers. In most cases it was obvious which answer they were after but not in all cases and worse than that it changed the mindset from looking for the correct answer to looking for which answer do I think they want. All-in-all I shouldn’t complain too much and the exam took less than 40 minutes so time was never an issue and a pass is a pass.

My Preparation

I didn’t pick up a book or look at a flashcard at all for this exam and relied purely on past experience. For those without experience I suggest that IC is probably all you would need or if it would make you feel more comfortable pick up any recognized text on intro to computing. The subject isn’t very deep and a basic understanding of terms and how to use spreadsheets and word processors would probably get you through it.

There isn’t much else I can offer in regards to advice with this one as for me most of it was second nature. If anyone has any specific questions relating to this exam let me know and I will help if I can.


Best of luck to all

Regards

Hi Ron,

thanks, this was very helpful to me!!! I work in this field since about 10 years and felt with the CLEP version very similar and I'm going to write this exam end of the week.

Thanks and good luck in your studies,

kckusek

[jenkitts]

What is intro to computing listed under on instantcert I'm scheduled to take next week. I'm also testing for world religion, sociology, and art of the western world so any tips or sites that would be helpful send them on.

[sgloer]

We don't offer Intro to Computing, but the CLEP Info Systems and Applications materials should do the trick.

[Kiwi Lover]

Originally Posted by jenkitts

What is intro to computing listed under on instantcert I'm scheduled to take next week. I'm also testing for world religion, sociology, and art of the western world so any tips or sites that would be helpful send them on.

Hi jenkitts,

Welcome to the forum. We have a separate area for the "Specific Exam Feedback" where you will find all kinds of helpful information from other IC members who have already taken the exams. Here are the direct links to each exam you mentioned:

Intro to Computers; http://www.instantcertonline.com/for...ters-dsst.html

World Religion: http://www.instantcertonline.com/for...ions-dsst.html

Sociology: http://www.instantcertonline.com/for...logy-clep.html

Art of the Western World: There is very little feedback for this one, as very few people seem to take it. I could only find the following two posts that may help you:

This post was made by LuBee on 03/28/07:

Hi, I studied for my Art History TECEP using the below link. It includes all art but all you need to do is eliminate the chapters on far eastern, middle eastern, and stone age. Pick a chapter from the drop down menu near the top left. Then click on the link that is on the left of the page that says online study guide. Study chapters 16-24, 28-29, 32-34, and maybe chapter 5, 9-12 also. (the correct study pages should say ONLINE STUDY GUIDE across the top, have gray background and a red sidebar on the right) Sometimes there will be pictures in the red sidebar and sometimes you will need to click on the links to get pictures.

Here is the link:
Book Companion Site

Architecture is considered part of the art that will be tested so make sure you study that as well. It is included in the chapters.

This post was made by beckysharp on 04/03/06:

I had zero art knowledge when I took this class and I scored a 67. It's less important to be able to recognize actual pictures than to understand the techniques the painters used, what they're known for and the art movements.

I just read everything I could on art including the PBS series you can find on-line by the same name. I think I also used some Dummies or Idiots books from the library. A lot of Renaissance and Baroque. Some Medieval and Impressionistic. Need to understand how the arts and the artists affected the people and their times. Don't forget the famous sculptors.

I hope this helps!

JoAnne