A+ certification books are plentiful. It’s a popular credential, and one that definitely requires preparation, such as a book like Mike Meyers’ A+ Certification Passport. Certification Passport is one of the industry’s longest-running certification series, having been around for the better part of a decade. One indication of a series’ quality is longevity: the less helpful a series is, the quicker it normally goes out of print.
Contents
The A+ Certification Passport is a thick (675 pages) book, with 20 chapters covering the variety of topics you’ll see on the A+ exam. It also includes, as almost all test prep books do, an accompanying CD-ROM with test questions and answers (one caution on the CD: it doesn’t work on Macs, so you’ll need a PC to do the four practice tests with a total of 200 questions.)
The book is broken down, like the test, into hardware (first part) and software (second part) sections. One helpful feature is that at the beginning of each chapter, there is an “ETA” that estimates how long it will take to get through the chapter if you’re a “newbie” (inexperienced), have some experience or are an expert. This will help you plan your study time better, based on your skill level.
The book is broken down, like the test, into hardware (first part) and software (second part) sections. One helpful feature is that at the beginning of each chapter, there is an “ETA” that estimates how long it will take to get through the chapter if you’re a “newbie” (inexperienced), have some experience or are an expert. This will help you plan your study time better, based on your skill level.
Black-and-White Coverage
The topics are generously illustrated, although I was disappointed that they’re all black-and-white photos or screenshots. Color illustrations, especially of the screenshots, would be helpful for more closely mimicking the exams, which show the screenshots in color.
Also sprinkled throughout each chapter are “Exam Tips,” bite-sized nuggets of information that reinforce the lessons. I found that some tips are great, while others just waste space. Here are two examples, both from Chapter 11 (Printers): “The CompTIA A+ certification exams are very concerned that you understand laser printer maintenance.” That’s invaluable info, since it helps you focus your study time. On the other hand, here’s this: “Know the proper cleaning procedures for all printer types.” That falls under the category “Duh!”
Also sprinkled throughout each chapter are “Exam Tips,” bite-sized nuggets of information that reinforce the lessons. I found that some tips are great, while others just waste space. Here are two examples, both from Chapter 11 (Printers): “The CompTIA A+ certification exams are very concerned that you understand laser printer maintenance.” That’s invaluable info, since it helps you focus your study time. On the other hand, here’s this: “Know the proper cleaning procedures for all printer types.” That falls under the category “Duh!”
Accurate Information
The technical depth of the information is adequate: not lacking, but not outstanding, either. The accuracy, on the whole, is very good. At the end of each chapter are 10 review questions and answers. Although they’re somewhat helpful, I found the answers mostly lacking any real depth or explanations.
For example, here’s an answer on laptop recharging from Chapter 12: “A laptop that doesn’t recharge has a problem with either the AC adapter or the battery.” There is nothing beyond this. A better answer would include more detail on not only why the right answer is right, but why the wrong answers are wrong. That promotes better learning, and hence, better exam prep.
For example, here’s an answer on laptop recharging from Chapter 12: “A laptop that doesn’t recharge has a problem with either the AC adapter or the battery.” There is nothing beyond this. A better answer would include more detail on not only why the right answer is right, but why the wrong answers are wrong. That promotes better learning, and hence, better exam prep.
CD-ROM Tests
Going through the CD-ROM tests is easy; one of the best things about it is that you can ask for “Assistance” after answering each question. That brings up a window of options, including where you can find the topic in the book, check whether the answer is right or wrong, and get a thorough explanation of the answer. This is much more beneficial than the sample questions and answers at the end of each chapter.
The CD-ROM includes a number of helpful items, including the practice test, the book in Adobe .PDF format, and even some helpful troubleshooting software, like the Ad-Aware anti-spyware program. That is quite thoughtful.
Overall, I’d recommend the A+ Certification Passport. I doubt you would be able to pass the exam if this was your only study aide; as with all certification tests, the best preparation is guides like this, in combination with sufficient real-world experience. But as part of your test prep arsenal, this book can help put you over the top. I’d give this “A+” test a solid “B”.
The CD-ROM includes a number of helpful items, including the practice test, the book in Adobe .PDF format, and even some helpful troubleshooting software, like the Ad-Aware anti-spyware program. That is quite thoughtful.
What Grade Does ‘A+’ Get?
One of the book’s real strengths is the engaging writing style. Mike Meyers and Scott Jernigan are the authors, and they write in an informal manner that’s easy to read. They also sprinkle humor throughout the book. Their explanations are clear: I didn’t find myself asking “What did I just read?” too often.Overall, I’d recommend the A+ Certification Passport. I doubt you would be able to pass the exam if this was your only study aide; as with all certification tests, the best preparation is guides like this, in combination with sufficient real-world experience. But as part of your test prep arsenal, this book can help put you over the top. I’d give this “A+” test a solid “B”.