Examinotion
Updated for 2026

AB-730 Study Guide: AI Business Professional Exam Preparation

Everything you need to pass the Microsoft AB-730 certification exam on your first attempt. Includes exam objectives, study strategies, and a proven 30-day plan.

45 Min
Exam Duration
40-60
Questions
700/1000
Passing Score
Beginner
Certification Level

TL;DR - Quick Summary

Target Audience

Non-technical exam designed for business professionals, not developers.

Exam Format

45-minute duration with 40-60 multiple-choice and scenario-based questions.

Passing Score

700/1000 with scaled scoring based on question difficulty.

Study Time

30-40 hours over 3-4 weeks with hands-on Copilot experience.

What is the Microsoft AB-730 Exam?

The Microsoft AB-730 exam, officially titled AI Business Professional, is the premier certification for validating your ability to use generative AI and Microsoft 365 Copilot in a business context. It focuses on the practical application of AI tools to enhance productivity, creativity, and decision-making in everyday workflows.

Unlike technical certifications designed for developers or data scientists, AB-730 is tailored for business professionals across all functions—marketing, sales, HR, finance, and operations. It proves you can effectively leverage Copilot in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams to work smarter and faster.

Who Should Take the AB-730 Exam?

Business Professionals

Knowledge workers seeking to boost productivity using AI assistants in their daily tasks.

Project Managers

Professionals who need to streamline communication, meetings, and project documentation.

Marketing & Sales

Teams using AI for content creation, customer insights, and market analysis.

Analysts & Consultants

Experts who need to synthesise large amounts of information and generate reports quickly.

Career Benefits and Market Demand

As AI becomes integral to the modern workplace, proficiency with tools like Microsoft 365 Copilot is becoming a core competency. Earning the AB-730 certification demonstrates to employers that you are not just "AI-aware" but "AI-proficient".

Certified professionals often see increased efficiency in their roles, freeing up time for strategic work. Furthermore, as organisations scramble to adopt AI, individuals with proven skills in practical AI application are well-positioned for promotion and leadership in digital workflows.

Exam Format and Structure

Exam Details

  • Duration45 minutes
  • Number of Questions40-60 questions
  • Passing Score700 out of 1000
  • FormatMultiple Choice
  • Delivery MethodOnline proctored

Question Types

  • Single-selectChoose the best answer from four options
  • Multiple-selectSelect all correct answers (typically 2-3)
  • Drag and DropMatch concepts to their definitions
  • Scenario AnalysisApply Copilot to specific business problems

Recommended Study Resources

Official Microsoft Resources

  • Microsoft Learn: AI Business Professional Path
  • Microsoft 365 Copilot User Guide
  • WorkLab: AI Productivity Reports
  • Microsoft Mechanics: Copilot Demos

Examinotion Prep Tools

  • AB-730 Practice Exam Simulator
  • 30-Day Interactive Study Plan
  • Flashcards for Key Terminology
  • Exam-focused Cheat Sheets

Ready to Practice?

Test your knowledge with 200+ exam-realistic questions.

Exam Objectives Breakdown

Three main domains you need to master

1

Generative AI Fundamentals

35-40%

Core concepts of LLMs and effective AI usage principles. This domain tests your understanding of how generative AI works and responsible AI practices.

Topics Covered:

  • LLMs functionality & limitations
  • Prompt engineering basics
  • Responsible AI principles
  • AI hallucinations & verification
  • Data privacy & security
  • AI assistants vs. Copilots
2

Microsoft Copilot Solutions

35-40%

Hands-on application across Microsoft 365 suite. You need to understand how Copilot works in each application and when to use specific features.

Topics Covered:

  • Copilot in Word (Drafting/Rewriting)
  • Copilot in Excel (Analysis/Formulas)
  • Copilot in PowerPoint (Creation/Design)
  • Copilot in Outlook (Email/Scheduling)
  • Copilot in Teams (Summaries/Action Items)
  • Licensing requirements
3

AI Business Applications

20-25%

Strategic application and business impact measurement. This domain covers how to identify use cases and measure the value AI brings to the organisation.

Topics Covered:

  • Identifying business use cases
  • Measuring ROI & productivity
  • Change management for AI
  • Compliance & governance
  • Evaluating AI output quality
Roadmap to Success

30-Day AB-730 Study Plan

Designed for busy professionals. 1-2 hours per day. Adjust based on your existing knowledge of Microsoft 365 and Copilot.

W1

Foundation

Days 1-7: Build your understanding of generative AI fundamentals

Days 1-2: AI Basics

  • - Microsoft Learn AI modules
  • - LLMs & Responses
  • - Responsible AI principles

Days 3-4: Prompt Engineering

  • - Structure & Best Practices
  • - Context & Specificity
  • - Writing Practice

Days 5-7: Review

  • - AI Limitations & Ethics
  • - Practice Quiz
  • - Review knowledge gaps
W2

Deep Dive - Copilot

Days 8-14: Master Microsoft Copilot across all applications

Days 8-9: Word & Excel

  • - Document drafting & rewriting
  • - Data analysis & formulas
  • - Hands-on practice

Days 10-11: PPT & Outlook

  • - Presentation creation
  • - Email management
  • - Meeting scheduling

Days 12-14: Teams & Review

  • - Meeting summaries
  • - Workflows & integrations
  • - Copilot practice test
W3

Application

Days 15-21: Apply knowledge to business scenarios

Days 15-16: Use Cases

  • - Business scenarios
  • - Tool matching
  • - Real-world examples

Days 17-18: ROI & Governance

  • - Measuring productivity
  • - Enterprise policies
  • - Compliance requirements

Days 19-21: Practice Exam

  • - Full-length practice exam
  • - Review incorrect answers
  • - Identify weak areas
W4

Mastery

Days 22-30: Polish, practise, and build confidence

Days 22-24: Focus on Weak Areas

  • - Review weak domains
  • - Documentation review
  • - Create summary notes

Days 25-27: Timed Practice

  • - 2-3 full timed exams
  • - Aim for >80% score
  • - Practise time management

Days 28-30: Final Prep

  • - Light review of key terms
  • - Prepare logistics
  • - Rest well before exam

AB-730 vs AB-731

Focus

AB-730
Practical Copilot Usage
AB-731
Strategic AI Adoption

Audience

AB-730
Individual Contributors
AB-731
Managers & Directors

Skills

AB-730
Prompting, Productivity
AB-731
Change Mgmt, ROI

Prerequisites

AB-730
Microsoft 365 Basics
AB-731
Leadership Experience

Can I take both?

Absolutely! Many professionals earn both to demonstrate comprehensive AI competency. We recommend starting with AB-730 to build foundational knowledge before tackling the strategic concepts in AB-731.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I study for the AB-730 exam?
Most candidates require 30-40 hours of study time spread over 3-4 weeks. Our recommended 30-day study plan allocates 1-2 hours daily, covering all exam objectives with time for practice tests and revision. Prior experience with Microsoft 365 Copilot can reduce this timeframe.
What is the passing score for AB-730?
The AB-730 exam requires a score of 700 out of 1000 to pass (70%). This is consistent with most Microsoft certification exams. The score is calculated using a scaled scoring method that accounts for question difficulty.
Is the AB-730 exam difficult?
The AB-730 is designed for business professionals rather than technical specialists, making it more accessible than developer-focused certifications. However, it requires solid understanding of generative AI concepts and practical Microsoft 365 Copilot usage. With proper preparation using practice exams, most candidates pass on their first attempt.
Can I take the AB-730 exam online?
Yes, the AB-730 exam is available both online through Pearson VUE OnVUE and at physical testing centres. Online proctoring allows you to take the exam from home or office, provided you meet the system requirements and have a suitable testing environment.
Do I need hands-on experience with Microsoft 365 Copilot?
While not strictly required, hands-on experience significantly improves your chances of passing. The exam tests practical knowledge of how to use Copilot effectively in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams. We recommend at least 2-4 weeks of regular Copilot usage before attempting the exam.
What is the difference between AB-730 and AB-731?
AB-730 (AI Business Professional) focuses on practical, day-to-day use of Microsoft 365 Copilot and generative AI tools. AB-731 (AI Transformation Leader) is designed for managers and leaders overseeing AI adoption initiatives, focusing on strategy, change management, and organisational transformation. Most individual contributors should start with AB-730.
How long is the AB-730 certification valid?
Microsoft AI certifications typically remain valid for one year from the date you pass the exam. You will need to complete a renewal assessment on Microsoft Learn to maintain your certification. The renewal is free and can be completed online.

Ready to Ace Your AB-730 Exam?

Join thousands of successful candidates. Start with 10 free practice questions today.

10 free questions per exam
Detailed explanations
94% pass rate
Can we do better?