Computer training for CompTIA A+ covers 4 different sectors – you’ll need exam certification in 2 specialities to be considered competent in A+. You’ll find that the majority of colleges limit their course to 2 of the four in the syllabus. Our opinion is this is too much of a compromise – of course you can gain accreditation, but knowledge of every section will give you a distinct advantage in industry, where you’ll need to know about all of them. That’s the reason why you should train in everything.

If you decide to become a student on the A+ training program you’ll become familiar with how to build and repair PC’s and operate in antistatic conditions. You’ll also cover fault-finding and diagnostic techniques, both remotely and via direct access.

Should you want to work towards looking after computer networks, you’ll need to add Network+ to your A+ course. This will prepare you to command a more senior job role. Also look at the networking qualifications from Microsoft, i.e. MCP, MCSA MCSE.

It’s so important to understand this key point: Always get full 24×7 instructor support. You’ll definitely experience problems if you let this one slide.

Beware of institutions which use call-centres ‘out-of-hours’ – with the call-back coming in during office hours. This is no use if you’re stuck and want support there and then.

Keep your eyes open for study programmes that incorporate three or four individual support centres active in different time-zones. All of them should be combined to offer a simple interface as well as access round-the-clock, when you need it, with the minimum of hassle.

Don’t accept second best when it comes to your support. The majority of trainees who give up, would have had a different experience if they’d got the right support package in the first place.

We’re often asked why traditional academic studies are now falling behind more commercial qualifications?

With a growing demand for specific technological expertise, the IT sector has of necessity moved to the specialised training that can only be obtained from the actual vendors – for example companies like Microsoft, CompTIA, CISCO and Adobe. This usually turns out to involve less time and financial outlay.

Many degrees, for example, clog up the training with vast amounts of loosely associated study – with much too broad a syllabus. Students are then held back from getting enough specific knowledge about the core essentials.

If an employer is aware what areas need to be serviced, then they just need to look for a person with the appropriate exam numbers. The syllabuses are set to exacting standards and don’t change between schools (as academic syllabuses often do).

Consider only training paths that’ll progress to commercially approved accreditations. There’s a plethora of small companies suggesting unknown ‘in-house’ certificates which are worthless when it comes to finding a job.

Only fully recognised examinations from the top companies like Microsoft, CompTIA, Adobe and Cisco will have any meaning to employers.

A top of the range training course package will undoubtedly incorporate accredited exam preparation packages.

Be sure that the practice exams are not only asking questions in the right areas, but additionally ask them in the way the real exams will pose them. It throws students if they’re faced with unrecognisable phrases and formats.

A way to build self-confidence is if you test your depth of understanding by doing quizzes and practice exams prior to taking the proper exam.

(C) Jason Kendall. Go to www.adult-retraining.co.uk for the best information on Adult Careers Advice & IT Training.

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