need to know how to get microsoft certificate

A good starting path is:

1. Choose the type of Microsoft credential
   • Microsoft Certification: formal certification earned by passing one or more exams.
   • Microsoft Essentials Professional Certificate: designed for entry-level IT professionals, career changers, and students. It validates foundational Microsoft product knowledge.
2. Start with beginner-friendly options
   • For someone just starting out, begin with a Fundamentals certification or an Essentials Professional Certificate.
   • Microsoft states that certifications can be explored by role or level on the credentials overview and browse certifications pages.
3. Use free learning resources first
   • Microsoft provides free online learning through Microsoft Learn.
   • There are also free hands-on, self-paced labs and walkthroughs.
   • For Essentials Professional Certificates, the learning path is available on LinkedIn Learning. Completing the LinkedIn Learning path unlocks access to the free, on-demand summative assessment on LinkedIn.
4. How certification usually works
   • Go to the certification details page for the certification of interest.
   • Review the exam details and the skills measured.
   • Prepare using the available options such as:
     • exam prep videos
     • free online training
     • instructor-led training
     • practice assessments
     • exam sandbox
   • Then schedule the exam if ready.
5. If the goal is Word, Excel, or PowerPoint
   • The relevant path is typically Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) certifications.
   • Microsoft Learn can help with preparation, but the certification itself is earned by taking the official exam through an authorized provider.
6. About free classes and free certification
   • Free classes/training: yes, Microsoft offers free online learning on Microsoft Learn, plus free labs and walkthroughs.
   • Free certification exam: not generally permanent. Free or discounted vouchers are usually tied to special events, challenges, or promotions.
   • For students, there may also be academic pricing or institution-based voucher options.
7. Best advice to avoid wasting time
   • Start with a Fundamentals certification if the goal is broad Microsoft knowledge.
   • Start with MOS if the goal is specifically Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
   • Use the official certification pages to confirm:
     • what exam is required
     • what skills are measured
     • what free preparation is available

If the goal is general Microsoft skills and a beginner-friendly path, the safest first step is to browse Microsoft credentials by level and choose either a Fundamentals certification or an Essentials Professional Certificate.

• Certification process overview
• Microsoft Essentials Professional Certificate process overview
• Learn how and when you want
• Options for Certifications
• Question on vouchers - Microsoft Q&A
• Can I get certified in Office 365 using Microsoft Learn - Microsoft Q&A