> I've noticed that some of the best replies in this newsgroup come from
> people who put "Excel MVP" as a credential.  Is the "MVP" an official
> certification of some sort from Microsoft? If so, how does one get
> certified as "MVP"?
>

Most of the people who regularly answer questions here are volunteers 
who willingly give up their time to help the Excel user community.  In 
recognition of their dedication, knowledge, experience and willingness 
to help, Microsoft award them a "Most Valuable Professional" 
accreditation.  One gets to be an MVP by helping out in these 
newsgroups.  After a long period of continual high-quality answers, MS 
will notice your posts and may, at their discretion, award you with an 
MVP accreditation.  It is not possible to become an MVP by sitting 
exams.

In recognition of our commitment, MS provide with a number of freebies 
and tools to help our support efforts.  At the moment, there are 27 
Excel MVPs spread throughout the world.  For more information, pop along 
to:

http://www.microsoft.com/supportnet/SupportPartners/MVPs/BrochureEnduser
HTM 

 Regards

 Stephen Bullen
 Microsoft MVP - Excel
 http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/Stephen_Bullen