Top Books for Preparing for Advanced SAS Certification: A Comprehensive Guide

Preparing for the Advanced SAS Certification exams can be challenging, but with the right resources and a well-structured study plan, you can excel. The most useful books to prepare for these exams, combined with hands-on practice writing advanced SAS code, will provide you with a comprehensive preparation for the SAS Advanced Programming certification.

Essential Books for Advanced SAS Certification

Among the available resources, the SAS Certification Prep Guide: Advanced Programming for SAS 9 published by SAS is a highly recommended book. This guide is designed to help you thoroughly prepare for the advanced SAS certification exams by providing in-depth coverage of the necessary topics and practical examples. It covers advanced programming techniques, data manipulation, and other critical aspects of SAS programming.

Best Practices for a Successful Exam Preparation

While the official guide can be a valuable resource, it is crucial to not rely solely on studying the material. To truly excel in the Advanced SAS Certification, it is recommended to:

Integrate Daily Practice: Apply what you learn on a daily basis in your job. This will help reinforce your understanding and ensure that you can apply your knowledge in a real-world setting. Engage in Hands-On Practice: Supplement your study with practical exercises and projects. The more you practice, the more comfortable you will become with the tools and techniques covered in the exams. Participate in Online Practice: Utilize online resources and practice exams to test your knowledge and identify areas where you may need to focus your efforts.

Recommended Courses and Learning Resources

The SAS Global Certification program recommends a mix of training and practical experience to succeed in the Advanced SAS Certification exams. Here are the recommended courses for you to consider:

SAS Programming 3: Advanced Techniques and Efficiencies - Focuses on advanced techniques and methods that will enhance your SAS programming skills. SAS Macro Language 1: Essentials - Provides a solid foundation in working with the SAS Macro Language, which is essential for automating tasks and improving code efficiency. SAS SQL1: Essentials - Covers the fundamentals of SQL programming within the SAS environment, which is crucial for data manipulation and query generation.

Preparing Thoroughly vs. Just Passing the Exam

While the primary goal is often to pass the exams, it is equally important to ensure that you can effectively use SAS in your work. A comprehensive understanding and hands-on experience will not only help you pass the exams but also enable you to apply your skills more efficiently in real-world scenarios. Here are some key considerations:

Achieve In-Depth Knowledge: Go beyond the basics and explore various advanced topics to develop a deep understanding of SAS programming. Develop Practical Skills: Engage in real-world projects and exercises to apply your knowledge and build practical skills. Leverage Online Resources: Utilize online forums, video tutorials, and other resources to complement your studies and gain additional insights.

Conclusion

By leveraging the recommended books and courses, along with hands-on practice and daily application of your knowledge, you can prepare effectively for the Advanced SAS Certification exams. Remember, success in the exams is just the beginning of your journey to becoming a proficient SAS programmer. Good luck with your preparation and exam!