| This book’s primary objective is to help you prepare for and pass the required Network+ exam so you can begin to reap the career benefi ts of certifi cation. We believe that the only way to do this is to help you increase your knowledge and build your skills. After completing this book, you should feel confi dent that you have thoroughly reviewed all of the objectives that CompTIA has established for the exam.
If you are new to certifi cations, we have some good news and some bad news. The good news is that a computer industry certifi cation is one of the most valuable credentials you can earn. It sets you apart from the crowd and marks you as a valuable asset to your employer. You will gain the respect of your peers, and certifi cation can have a wonderful effect on your income.
The bad news is that certifi cation tests are not easy. You may think you will read through some study material, memorize a few facts, and pass the examinations. After all, these certifi cation exams are just computer-based, multiple-choice tests, so they must be easy. If you believe this, you are wrong. Unlike many “multiple-guess” tests you have been exposed to in school, the questions on certifi cation examinations go beyond simple factual knowledge.
The purpose of this introduction is to teach you how to take a computer certifi cation examination. To be successful, you need to know something about the purpose and structure of these tests. We also look at the latest innovations in computerized testing. Using simulations and adaptive testing, the computer industry is enhancing both the validity and the security of the certifi cation process. These factors have considerable bearing on how you should prepare for an exam, as well as your approach to each question during the test.
We begin by looking at the purpose, focus, and structure of certifi cation tests, and we examine the effect these factors have on the kinds of questions you will face on your certifi cation exams. We defi ne the structure of examination questions and investigate some common formats. Next, we present a strategy for answering these questions. Finally, we give some specifi c guidelines on what you should do on the day of your test. |
