Amazon.co.uk Review
If you are familiar with Java or an object-oriented program language like C++, the
All-In-One Java 2 Certification Exam Guide does a competent (if not exceptional) job of explaining the individual components, features, and functions of Java--but if you're weak on concepts, you'll definitely need another book to back this up.
The organisation of the book is fairly simple, starting off with the absolute basics of programming, moving on to slightly more advanced topics like switch and case statements, then walking the reader through most of Java's functions, arguments, interfaces, and exception-handling on a case-by-case basis. The book's explanations are fairly minimal, explaining each function quickly with relevant snippets of code, which either demonstrate a function or how to do some commonly requested task. Programmers will nod sagely, appreciating the no-nonsense way the book rips through a large amount of data in short order, and if you know what you're doing you can very quickly get a lot of information. The code segments are clear and concise, and generally are useful for illuminating the proper way to use a function or structure something. Unfortunately, if there's a snippet of code that you don't quite get how (or why) it works, you may be left up the creek.
People fuzzy on the more conceptual portions of Java may be left behind, too, as the book's strong point is going through what Java does, not why it does it. Another slight problem with the book is its lack of test focus. It goes through Java in a fair amount of detail, but doesn't really explain what's likely to be in the test and what isn't.
In short, this is a book that is slanted far more towards reference than to test taking or tutorial. As such, it's useful for those who already understand Java to a large extent and are looking to lock down their knowledge before they actually spend the money on the test and experienced programmers will appreciate the brevity involved. Others, however, with less savvy, may wish to find another book to go with. Recommended for the experienced. --William Steinmetz
Product Description
This text provides complete coverage of both the developer and programmer exams for Java 2 certification. There are more than 500 sample questions and exercises included in the book/CD package test, for comprehension and to prepare readers for the Sun exams. Exam tips highlight actual exam topics and an easy-to-use map of exam objectives facilitates quick access for exam review. Technical discussion sidebars offer in-depth understanding, while drawings and photos enhance the learning experience.
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