You wrote: >wondering what folks thought of pursuing the A+ certification as
an entry
>point into the field of PC's

    I am doing that just now as part of a Networking Certificate, and I am
enjoying just knowing a little more about computers

>
.  At this point, I would describe myself as a
>hobbyist who enjoys learning about computers and seems to have absorbed a
>bit of computer knowledge in a haphazard fashion as I have gone along.

    I believe I fit in that category too
>I was thinking of taking one of those prep courses for the A+ certification
as
>a way to get a more organized and broader exposure to the workings of
>computers.  The content of the A+ exam seems to overlap my areas of
>interest.  My main reservation is whether these 35 to 40 hour prep courses,
>at around $750 from the local community colleges, are worth the expense.
>This compares to around $50 to just buy a book>

    I don't know where you are taking courses, but my A+ Certification
course is costing me $416 dollars, which includes the $40 dollar book. After
I am done this course, I should be able to pass the $200 dollar test.

   .  I know that there must be
>some intangibles with taking a course with other people and from an
>instructor, but I wondered if anyone could share their thoughts or
>experience in this area.
>
>TIA
>
    I too feel better taking it with an instructor as I like the immediate
feedback I get from an instructor. I have logged many hours learning on my
own, but I like classroom settings better.

                            Wayne harris in New Hampshire
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