u/Ok-Razzmatazz-1300

I regularly read nonfiction books and try to expand my knowledge in various subject areas. Since I’m self-employed, I also read books on business and related topics. But I also work a lot with Azure and would like to read a well-researched book on the subject. Ideally, one that isn’t 10 years old.

I know that things change quickly in this field, but there are still fundamental aspects of cloud architecture (concepts, patterns, etc.). Of course, I could just go through Microsoft Learn, but I’m really looking for a well-structured book. If it also covers aspects related to entrepreneurs and businesses, that would be even better.

If anyone here can recommend any books, I’d really appreciate it!

Hi, it's me again. A few months ago, I posted here that I had passed AZ-104. Now I've passed AZ-305, too.

First of all, I'd like to thank everyone who has already shared their experiences and learning materials here!

My Exam Experience:

It felt like a disaster. Shortly before the exam, I received some bad news. Because of that, I couldn’t concentrate very well during the exam.

The first few questions were very confusing to me, and I assumed I wouldn’t pass. About 15 minutes before the end, there was a question where I couldn’t see the answers, which I had mentioned in the chat. The proctor restarted my session, and I was stuck in the waiting room for about 10 minutes. I was already assuming that either the time had run out or that I’d have to retake the exam anyway.

In the end, I was surprised to have passed. So here's a little tip: Don't get discouraged if the first few questions throw you off, and don't give up too quickly. But keep an eye on the time. I wanted to be sure about a lot of the questions and ended up spending too much time on Microsoft Learn.

How I prepared:

• Microsoft Learn: The learning path for AZ-305, as well as others that cover the skills measured
• The AZ-305 YouTube Playlist from Microsoft Learn
• John Savill's YouTube Playlist (not just study cram)

Then I analyzed the "Skills Measured" section from the "Study Guide". For each skill, I analyzed what you need to know and what kinds of questions might be asked. If there was a strong emphasis on practical application, I either did exercises or watched YouTube videos with demos. Along the way, I created a small wiki in Notion. If there was something I wanted to memorize, I added it to my wiki.

I hope this helps you if you're also preparing for this exam right now.

One more question:

I have a YouTube channel, but I haven't posted a video in a long time. However, I put a lot of time into preparing for this exam, and it feels weird to just throw my notes away now. Would it help you if I made a video where I talk more about how I prepared and give a few tips?

Hi everyone,

I’m not (yet) a digital nomad, but I could use your advice.

I’m self-employed in the IT sector in Germany and am planning to pivot my career in the coming months. I know that among digital nomads there are some solopreneurs whose mindset inspires me. That’s why I’ve been thinking about spending a few months in a different location to fully focus on my career and to find inspiring connections there, for exchange and, potentially, collaboration. I was thinking, for example, of coworking spaces or meetups.

However, I also recently saw a post here along the lines of “there are no communities.” So I wanted to ask first whether you think my idea makes sense and, if so, where you would go. For example, I’ve heard that people from the tech sector often meet up in Gran Canaria.

I’d appreciate any advice or opinions.

Hallo zusammen,

ich komme eigentlich aus Hessen, aber bin durch meine Freundin mittlerweile sehr oft in Freiburg. Ich gehe gerne mit Leuten Kaffee trinken und tausche mich über interessante Themen aus, habe in Freiburg aber noch keine guten Gesprächspartner gefunden. Deshalb versuche ich es einfach mal hier.

Kurz zu mir:

• Mitte 30, männlich
• Selbstständig in der IT
• Interessiert an Kaffee, Politik, Wirtschaft, Reisen, Technik, Kochen, Backen
• Spiele alle 2 Jahre mal Squash, wenn ich einen Gegner finde

Ich kann mich aber auch für vieles mehr interessieren, wenn mir jemand von einem neuen Thema berichtet. Dein Alter, Geschlecht und ob du Deutsch oder Englisch sprichst, ist mir übrigens vollkommen egal. Wichtig wäre mir nur, dass du "auf Zack bist". Damit meine ich: zuverlässig, zeitnah auf Nachrichten antworten etc.

Also falls du dich angesprochen fühlst und mal Lust auf einen Kaffee hast, schreib mir gerne.

Hey everyone,

I'm in the process of becoming a Microsoft Certified Trainer (MCT) and trying to figure out the smartest (and cheapest) path forward given the new requirements taking effect July 1st, 2026.

As far as I understand, the new MCT enrollment process will require:

• An AI certification (AB-730 or AB-731)
• Completion of the new MCT Onboarding Experience (3-day program delivered by active MCTs) replacing the ISCP requirement

Here's my problem: Microsoft hasn't publicly announced the cost of the MCT Onboarding Experience. Or at least I can't find any concrete numbers anywhere.

Meanwhile, ISCP courses are available for as cheap as $400–500 in some countries. And for non-English speaking candidates, Microsoft has confirmed that existing ISCP certificates will still be accepted until December 31, 2026.

So my questions are:

1. Does anyone know what the MCT Onboarding Experience will cost?
2. Given the uncertainty, does it make more sense to quickly complete an ISCP course now (known cost, accepted until end of 2026) or wait for the new Onboarding Experience (unknown cost, but probably the future-proof option)?

What would you do if you were in my shoes? I'd really appreciate your advice.