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Related Resources • A+ Adaptive Exams Review • Comptia Resources • A+ Defined • Certification Outline: CompTIA • "The Security+ Exam Guide"

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When asked to answer a few questions about his book and A+ in general, Christopher A. Crayton replied with his views on A+ preparation, the certification market, and more. He has recently published "The Security+ Exam Guide" and we can only assume that it aspires to the same level of quality as his A+ guide.

Quick Bio

Christopher A. Crayton (MCSE, MCP+I, A+, Network+), is a Certified A+/Network+ Instructor, recognized as “Teacher of the Year” by Keiser College in 2000. He resides in Sarasota, Florida, where he serves as Network Administrator for Protocol, an ECRM company.

Interview

What level of experience and knowledge should readers have before using this book as a study guide?

Anyone interested in taking a particular certification exam should have hands on experience with the subject at hand. I recommend that A+ certification hopefuls have a minimum of six months of hands on experience as well as technical training.

Is it possible to prepare for and pass the A+ exam without actually touching an open PC?
Yes, but it is not recommended. The goal here is a combination of hands on experience, education and certification. If you pass the exam and happen to obtain employment without the necessary skills, it is more than likely that you won't last very long.

Students love to ask the following question:
Mr. Crayton, what is most important when preparing for employment?

O A. Certification
O B. Hands on experience
O C. Education
O D. All of the above

Correct Answer=D

What topic(s) should candidates focus on studying the most? What are the most difficult concepts or topics to master?

The A+ Core Hardware Service Technician Exam is considered the easier of the two exams. If you have hands experience troubleshooting hardware and fine-tune it for the exam with the first half of my A+ Adaptive Exams book, you shouldn't have any problem passing. However, the A+ Operating Systems Technologies Exam is difficult. You need to focus the majority of your study time educating yourself with inter workings of the major operating systems.

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A+ Adaptive Exams (With CD-ROM) Read Review . . .

How do you think the market looks for A+ candidates and certificants?

Excellent. If a position in the technologies industry is your main goal, you should acquire all the certifications you can. A+ is great start.

In your opinion, what would be a good follow-up certification from the A+?

Candidates and current A+ certificants should consider following up A+ with Network+. Then, go for the gold and get Security+ certified. Those who hold Security+ certification will be in high demand as far as employment consideration. If you are interested in getting Security+ certified "The Security+ Exam Guide" is for you!

Do you have any tips or advice for test takers?

Yes, if you are serious about certification. Read the reviews regarding my A+ book from those who have come before you. The basic certification exam preparation tips included in the book will prepare you for lifetime of passing certification exams.