This certification exam was developed based on a product task analysis that defined the skills required to use Microsoft Excel to capture data, calculate data by using advanced formulas, manage data ranges, summarize and analyze data, format worksheet and chart content, and manage macro and user-defined functions at a minimally competent level for an expert-level user. This exam consists of 45 performance-based, multiple-task exam items. Examinees are given 50 minutes to complete the exam, which is delivered using the live Microsoft Excel application.
Approximate percentage of examination by content area:18% Capturing Data: Restrict data entry by using data validation; Link form controls to cells; Import data from an external source; Link to data in an external source.18% Calculate Data by Using Advanced Formulas: Create formulas that combine Lookup & Reference and Statistical functions; Create formulas that combine Date & Time, Text, and Logical functions; Manage and reference defined names; Audit formulas.17% Managing Data Ranges: Consolidate data ranges; Select and manipulate similar cells and objects; Apply advanced filtering; Protect data in a worksheet.17% Summarizing and Analyzing Data: Create PivotTables and PivotCharts; Modify PivotTable content; Perform what-if analysis.16% Formatting Worksheet and Chart Content: Create custom data formats; Define advanced conditional formatting rules by using formulas; Add visual elements to a chart.14% Managing Macros and User-defined Functions: Record and edit a macro; Manage existing macros; Create a user-defined function (UDF).