Hi Josue,
QUESTION: I've heard lots of advice on becoming certified. What is your advice? Any formulas for successful preparation?
If you are not already familiar with the language I'd suggest first working through a good tutorial book. There are two books available on-line which many people use:
Thinking in Java by Bruce Eckel and
Introduction to Java Programming by David Eck. You can also check the
JavaRanch Bunkhouse for reviews on Beginning Java books.
Once you get a feel for the language, pick up a good certification guide. The favorites are RHE, Khalid's and Bill Brogden's Exam Cram. Reviews are available on the Bunkhouse page.
Work through the certification guides writing as many pieces of code as you can to clarify the concepts. Keep in mind that the certification guides are just that, guides. IMHO it's also useful to supplement the information in each area by working through the appropriate section of
Sun's Java Tutorial
Once you feel you understand the fundamentals, start taking the mocks. Review areas you are weak on.
When you feel confident, take the real exam.
As to the benefits of certification, in my opinion they are two fold: passing gives you confidence in your ability to work with Java and is evidence, to possible employers, that you have the self-discipline to develop a new skill. It also tangible evidence that you really do know Java.
Hope that helps. All the best with your studies.
