Hi Bonsky
Good decision! Its good to be thinking about making yourself more marketable in the current market conditions. If the world and their dog has MCSE, and you want to play the game, you have to as well; thats certainly what I've found, my CV won't get considered for most of the jobs I really want as I don't have MCSE!
I did my second MCP (W2K server) this afternoon, and passed, after spending a week revising solidly. Its AD next, in a weeks time, and, whilst its hard work to be studying so much (12-15 hours a day) I am not presently working so i have the time. Did my first exam beginning of Feb, and am aiming to do 2 a month, working full time on studies!
Book wise, I have been using the Coriolis Exam Cram books Core Four, and these were great for revision, but not really enough to learn the material to start with, and, as its a MS exam, you need to be learning things the MS way, and I've used their study books.
I'd also suggest you check the web for information about free tests and study guides, there are plenty about. Up to a point, you need to find something you can work with and find useful. Sybex seem to be well respected, but I found them hard work (but useful!) Ultimately, only you know if you can spend 12 hours in front of a screen reading, or whether the escape of a book is what you need.
IF you're a risk taker, I'd say book your first exam (would suggest W2K Pro (70-210) first), and study for it, and see how you get on. There is no substitute for hands on, so make sure you're using W2K at home, as it does make a difference and XP isn't the same.
The biggest step is booking the very first exam and seeing how it goes. Once you've done that, you will know if what you're doing works or not, and can adapt your study accordingly.
Very best of luck whatever you decide to read!!
edlcsre
