1. What is the AZ-204: Developing Solutions for Microsoft Azure exam primarily designed to validate?
The AZ-204 exam is designed to validate a candidate’s subject matter expertise in designing, building, testing, and maintaining cloud applications and services on Microsoft Azure. This encompasses a broad range of development phases, from requirements gathering and design to deployment, security, maintenance, performance tuning, and monitoring of Azure solutions.
2. What foundational technical proficiency is expected for candidates taking the AZ-204 exam?
Candidates should possess at least two years of professional development experience, including proficiency in a programming language supported by Azure (such as C#, Python, or Java). Furthermore, strong familiarity with Azure SDKs, Azure CLI, Azure PowerShell, and various Azure services like data storage options, data connections, APIs, and app authentication/authorization is crucial.
3. What are the key domain areas covered in the AZ-204 exam and their approximate weightage?
The AZ-204 exam typically assesses skills across five main domains:
- Develop Azure compute solutions
- Develop for Azure storage
- Implement Azure security
- Monitor, troubleshoot, and optimize Azure solutions
- Connect to and consume Azure services and third-party services
4. What is the typical format and duration of the AZ-204 exam, and what is the passing score?
The AZ-204 exam generally consists of 40-60 questions, which can include various types such as multiple-choice, multi-response, case studies, and potentially hands-on labs. The duration for the exam is typically 100 minutes. A scaled score of 700 out of 1000 or greater is required to pass.
5. How can I effectively prepare for the AZ-204 exam?
Effective preparation involves a multi-faceted approach. Microsoft Learn offers dedicated learning paths and a comprehensive study guide for AZ-204, which outlines the skills measured. Hands-on experience with Azure services, leveraging practice assessments on Microsoft Learn, and utilizing official Microsoft training courses are highly recommended to solidify both theoretical knowledge and practical application.
6. Are there any prerequisites or prior certifications required to take the AZ-204 exam?
While there are no strict formal prerequisites in terms of other Microsoft certifications, candidates are expected to have practical experience with Azure and proficient programming skills. Having 1-2 years of professional development experience and familiarity with Azure SDKs, Azure CLI, and Azure PowerShell are highly recommended.
7. What is the policy for retaking the exam if I don’t pass on the first attempt?
If you do not pass the exam on your first attempt, you must wait at least 24 hours before retaking it. For subsequent retakes (if you fail a second time), a waiting period of at least 14 days is required. There’s a limit of five attempts within a 12-month period. If you pass the exam, you cannot retake it.
8. How long is the Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate certification valid, and how can it be renewed?
The Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate certification is valid for one year from the date you earn it. To renew the certification, you must pass a free online assessment on Microsoft Learn before its expiration date. This ensures your skills remain current with the evolving Azure platform.
9. Can I access study materials or take practice tests directly from Microsoft to prepare for the AZ-204 exam?
Yes, Microsoft provides several official resources. Microsoft Learn offers free learning paths, a detailed study guide, and practice assessments for the AZ-204 exam. These practice assessments are created by the same team that develops the certification exams, providing a realistic simulation of the exam experience and offering detailed explanations for correct and incorrect answers.
10. What kind of accommodations are available for individuals requiring special assistance during the AZ-204 exam?
Microsoft and its exam delivery providers (like Pearson VUE) offer accommodations for individuals with disabilities or those who may need additional time for exams (e.g., due to English being a second language). Requests for accommodations should be made in advance through the respective processes outlined on the Microsoft Certification exam policies page.
