MCTS Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-431): Microsoft SQL Server 2005 Implementation and Maintenance (Pro-Certification)

I have been working with SQL Server since version 4.2. Since then, there have been a lot of books written, but few of this quality. The principal author has a gift for clear and succinct writing that only comes from knowing a topic well. Time and time again I marveled at how few words he used to explain complex technical topics. I recommend this book highly not only for those seeking certification, but also for those who wish to learn how to implement and maintain SQL Server 2005. Money well spent.

I like the topics they are covering. However as mentioned, some of the coverage seems a little light. Hey a book can only be so big.

One annoyance was the example on page 175, the subquery is incorrect as it should be 'Select EmployeeId', not 'Select AddressId'. No wonder someone was confused.

SQL Server 2005 is a big subject. This book takes a good stab at it.

I liked the feature in the electronic document (PDF) to be able to have the document read to you in the Microsoft Sam voice....

This book is an absolute must for IT people who are migrating to SQL Server 2005 and who are seeking certification. Topics are logically laid out and well explained. The CD's that come with the book are great tools to prep for the cert test.

I don't know what edtion this is, but the first edition has lots of mistakes in them. When I came accross the index chapter I kept banging my head against the wall since the example didn't make sense, sure enough, it was a typo...
Go online and find the list of typos in this book. The link is on the CD what comes with the book.
I found it easy to read though.