Preparation for SCJP

[Maen Najjar]

Hello

I have good knowledge in java (not expert, but as a former C++ programmer, I know many of its concepts) and I want to get the SCJP
But I think I'm not ready for the Java SDK test
so, I want to begin from beginning as totally new to Java

Should I first read a java book like Teach yourslef Java in 21 Days
or read dierctly a SCJP book ?
If I have to read a Java book, I don't want to lose time. so should I read all Chapters, for example Swing, Applets, or read only the required objectives ?

Any tips ?

Regards

[Trevor Whitehead]

Hi Maen,

check out Programmer Certification Study FAQ. There is lots of useful stuff there.

[Carol Enderlin]

You should be aware that the SCJP 5.0 Beta exam is currently in progress (ends March 6) with the regular 5.0 exam coming in April (or later since the beta was extended?). If you read some posts in this forum you will see more about the beta.

Many beginning java books have come out with a 5.0 version. So, depending upon whether you want to take the 1.4 exam or the 5.0 exam you'll need to choose the right version of the books. As the FAQ suggested, check out Beginning Java and Java Certification books in the bunkhouse.

Some people will want to take the beta 5.0 exam on the latest and greatest features (but not much guidance available yet in the way of certification books, mock exams, etc), others want to take the 1.4 exam that they know is already available and has a multitude of books, mocks, etc.
[ February 16, 2005: Message edited by: Carol Enderlin ]

[Maen Najjar]

Hello all

Scince that 5.0 exam will be in Apirl, I'm thinking of learning Java Tiger directly
I'm considering this book : Just Java 2 : Sixth Edition
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/0131482114/ref=pd_sbs_b_1/104-4251413-4519154?%5Fencoding=UTF8&v=glance
What do you think ? is it good ;?

and then I will search for a book for tiger exam

I don't know, but if the tiger exam covers some of (or all ?) 1.4 objectives. then I guess that 1.4 mock exams will work for preparing 1.5, is that right ?

Regards