Just took the Intro to Computing DSST Practice Exam

[Arcas]

I got 42/50 on the DSST practice exam for Intro to Computing, without even studying.

Do you think I should go ahead and test, or do some study?

[bricabrac]

In my opinion, it was not a very hard test. It depends on your background. If you have taken computer courses or have professional experience you could probably sit it cold. I would still review the flashcards and the specific exam feedback area. If only for a few days, then go sit the exam. Better to be over prepared than surprised while testing..

If cards are not still not available for the DSST vers, use the corresponding CLEP (Info Sys & Comp Applic) set.

[Arcas]

Thanks,

I am an IT Desktop Support professional. I don't do a huge amount with programming or databases, but I know enough to get by.

I think I'll just go for it. Passing is 59-63%, according to DSST, and my institution doesn't offer a letter grade on this one, just credit for a pass.

[Leebo]

I'm guessing you'll pass with flying colors, it doesn't seem like a difficult exam. Unfortunately, Excelsior says it overlaps with the Information Systems CLEP I took. Would have been 3 easy credits.

[Lindagerr]

42/50 would be 84% Most of us feel ok taking an exam with 60% on practice exams. I also took the CLEP and didn't think it was that difficult.

[dewisant]

Over-prepared and confidant is always best.

[zenurez]

Intro to computing is one of the easiest exams. However it does cover some foundational knowledge that you might not know off the top of your head, like how a CPU uses both an arithmetic/logic unit and also a bus(?) for storing data. I also wasn't up to speed on basic networking terms and had to brush up.

You could look at the free resources at free-clep-prep.com and take their practice test. Introduction to Computing DSST Study Guide - Free-Clep-Prep.com I think I scored around 75% on this and it translated to passing the DSST with a 474.

Also I took the DSST because it offers 4 multiple choice answers, so if there is a question you don't know, you have a higher percent chance of getting the right answer. If for some odd reason you fail, there is a similar CLEP (5 answers) that might work for the college credit. Enjoy!

Thanks,

I am an IT Desktop Support professional. I don't do a huge amount with programming or databases, but I know enough to get by.

I think I'll just go for it. Passing is 59-63%, according to DSST, and my institution doesn't offer a letter grade on this one, just credit for a pass.