The right sort of training course package should incorporate accredited exam simulation and preparation packages. Steer clear of relying on non-official preparation materials for exams. The way they're phrased can be quite different - and this could lead to potential problems once in the actual exam. 'Mock' or practice exams are very useful in helping you build your confidence - so that when you come to take the proper exam, you won't be worried.

Both examinations have fairly recently been subject to a 2009 update in line with CompTIA's efforts towards ISO standardisation. The previous 'A+' (edition 2006-2007) examinations that were categorised with the 600 pre-fix are now being phased out internationally through 2010. In Britain, they discontinue on August 31st 2010. Because both these, & the new '700' exams are currently available to sit in 'prometric' & Vue test centres, it seems sensible to study the '700' examinations now, & avoid having to certify again later on. 'A+' 2009 is now offered as 220-701 'CompTIA' 'A+' Essentials and 220-702 'CompTIA' 'A+' Practical Application. Together with some extra information on more recent technology, there are now two examinations that cover components of all 4 of the earlier examinations. Even though the older 'A+' had four exams in the whole program, only 2 were needed for the accreditation. These days the market needs workers with know-how that used to be in all four previous exams. Individuals will learn that information from the 2 new compulsory 'A+' programs. An up-grade exam has been produced by CompTIA for anybody who have the older qualification. 'BR-003' is the reference number. Passing the bridging exam will generally require additional study, although it ought not to be too onerous for people who originally studied all electives. The extra subject areas will clearly involve some extra study.

In first place for the biggest issue to be got round in the IT training sector is usually having to turn up to 'In Centre' days or workshops. Many training schools push the 'benefits' of going in to their classes, but most students end up finding them a major problem because of:

- Many round trips - sometimes 100's of miles.

- Accessibility to workshops; often weekdays only and sometimes two to three days together. You then have the difficulty of the leave of absence.

- At only 4 weeks annual leave, spending half on educational classes often means losing out on family and vacation time.

- Workshop days often reach their maximum intake very quickly, meaning we have to accept the '2nd best' solution.

- The pace of the workshop - centre-days often contain trainees of varied aptitude, consequently tension can run high between students with more background knowledge and those with less experience.

- Don't overlook the increased financial outlay of driving or taking public transport or accommodation for the duration either. Often, this will cost many hundreds of pounds more - sometimes thousands. Do the maths yourself - you'll get a shock.

- Many attendees want their studies to remain private and therefore avoiding all questions at work.

- Raising questions in front of other class-mates will often make us a little nervous. Ever avoided asking a question as you didn't want to appear stupid?

- If your work takes you away from home, you now have to deal with the fact that classes sometimes become awkward to keep up - and yet, the fees were paid along with everything else at the start.

A more flexible training route is to utilise pre-made lessons at home, in comfort - taking them when it's convenient to you - not anybody else. Just imagine... Using a notebook PC you're able to study wherever you happen to be at that time. And 24x7 support is an online click away when you get challenged. Simply do the study modules whenever you need to. And of course, you won't need to write any notes as you'll have direct access to the instruction whenever you want to go back to it. Could it get any simpler: You avoid travelling and wasting time and money; and you have a far more comfortable study environment.

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