This book didn`t describe everything in as much detail as I would like to know (example: how to actually install a network step-by-step), but it didn`t leave me lost wondering about what the author is talking about. It has a friendly tone to it and it is a good book to read if you have a moderate amount of related knowledge, but it won`t think for you. You will have to practice to learn to install a motherboard or hard driver yourself (for example)--but the book DOES mention that you will need to practice on your own.
This book doesn`t claim to be a textbook--it just claims to tell you what you need to know (the basics) to pass the exam. Sometimes, they do repeat themselves in this book, which I find could be reduced a little bit to shorten the length of the book, but it is also helpful if you don`t read the book in order, so I can`t complain. If you want to know more, I suggest Google-ing words (like I did) and reading articles about it online or also using an actual textbook for more information.
I read the first three chapters first, which for me seemed extremely focused on facts about the size and abbreviations (think Biology class) which I tried to memorize and had to keep reading it over and over. I still have to read it again before I can pass the exam to know the EXACT facts. Next I went to the end of the book (to help me with setting up my home network), then finished up in the middle. I suggest reading chapters 1 and 2 first, then whatever interests you next to keep you motivated, then everything else, then re-read it all again quick! It took me forever to get through it mostly because I didn`t stay interested--big mistake! You don`t have to read this one front to back.
Haven`t used the CD yet, but have heard that it isn`t accurate (unfortunately!) Very strange!!! Minus 1 star for that.
