SCJP 5 or SCJP 6????

[Kanishka Ajwani]

Hi, I have a basic knowledge of java programming, and have done little amount of coding as well. As of now, I am not in touch with Java, but remember the concepts reasonably. I am planning to take up SCJP certification, but confused on what to give, SCJP 5 or SCJP 6. I have read the objectives for both, v6 is a little enhanced and tougher than v5, but v5 seems easier to me. It would be great if anyone could help me decide on what to take up.
In case I go for SCJP 5, is there a chance that it will go obsolete?

[Deepak Bala]

Go for SCJP 6. More on that here -> http://faq.javaranch.com/java/ScjpFaq#16diff15

[Ankit Garg]

This question is asked every now and then and we always encourage people to go for SCJP 6 as its the latest and not too different from SCJP 5...

[Kanishka Ajwani]

Thanks Deepak and Ankit, even I think it makes sense to go for SCJP6, but I am little afraid of the difficulty level of the test. .
One more question, How much you think is the estimated time I would need for preparing for SCJP6? Consider the factor that I'll be studying at home during extra time. And also I would appreciate if you suggest me some books and material for SCJP6.

[rohan yadav]

kathy Sierrra and Bert Bates SCJP 6 is the best book for prepration of SCJP.

[Ankit Garg]

If you give full time to SCJP, then you can prepare for it within 2 months. Kathy Sierra and Bert Bates book is good. A list of books, mock exams and other stuff is given in the ScjpFaq...