Some of the hints that might prove helpful are as follows:
Understand the subject matter: Exam 1Z0-052 requires an extensive knowledge of the subject matter. In reality, it is one of the most comprehensive tests given in the entire Oracle Database Certification series. Each subject area must be thoroughly understood before taking the test.
Don't cut corners: Passing the test is all about preparation. Where possible, don't drag out your preparation over a long period of time. Try to set aside a period of time that you will spend in dedicated preparation, and then take the test. Do not skip subjects. Your exam will be 70 questions generated from a larger bank of questions. While it is likely that not every subject will be on your exam, any subject is possible. Don't risk skipping any particular subject.
Know your terms: This exam is heavily oriented toward terminology. Being familiar with the terms involved is crucial to passing the exam. In this book, we have focused on using the terms that are present on the test to help facilitate this. However, the terms used on the test are not always those used by real-world DBAs. When you see terms in this book with which you are unfamiliar, keep this in mind.
Learn by doing: Most people learn a subject more thoroughly by actually doing it. In this book, we began by taking the reader through the process of installing Oracle and building a database to facilitate the "learn by doing" process Take advantage of the sample database and examples used in this book.
Supplement your learning: This book covers all the necessary subjects to pass the exam, but don't hesitate to supplement your knowledge from other sources. Take advantage of practice exams and sample questions where possible. Search the Internet—some sites have forums visited by people who have taken the test. Their comments may give you some insight into whether you're ready to take the exam. However, beware of the "braindump" type of practice exams. Many have inaccurate questions and answers.
Don't sweat it: Be mentally and physically prepared on the day of the exam. Eat properly and get plenty of rest. Prepare well, and be confident. Many candidates like to schedule the exam in the earlier part of the day so they're mentally fresh. Choose a test site with which you're familiar to minimize the risk of being late. Stress is a candidate's worst enemy.
Watch the wording: Certification tests in general can be notorious for the wording of their questions, and Oracle's are no exceptions. Read each question carefully. Test candidates generally do not have trouble completing the exam within the time allotted provided they are properly prepared.
Watch out for poorly worded questions and double negatives: The exam is multiple choice, and some questions have many correct answers. You must get every one of the answers correct for full credit on a question; only partial credit is awarded for each correct choice.
Use the questions to your advantage: There is no penalty for guessing in the exam, so make sure you answer all the questions. Also, you have the ability to skip questions and return to them later. The answer for one question may help jog your memory on another. When you read a question, try to deduce the solution without immediately referring to the possible answers. If you think you're right, don't let the answers sway you. Some candidates like to skim the test and complete the "easier" questions first. This can give you some momentum for the remainder of the test.