Depends on your perspective not5150.
I have completed a foundation in Networking and hardware, not an accredited course like A+, not as in depth as that, but I don't care.
I bought the Mike Meyers A+ book for my own benefit, but it basically goes over what I already know, but more in-depth really.
I'm using the photoreading soley on the A+ book, but the MCP books get my most attention at present.
Of course people will hire you without the A+, I wouldn't worry about it.I have been told by people to egt the A+, as it's a good starter cert for a beginner tech job.
But to be honest I don't find the insides on computers all that interesting, at present, it's system stuff that's my focus.
Of course all things are connected, and they interrealte.I suppose I do agree that the A+ is the way to go, but if you know your computers well and just decide to go for MCP's, this shouldn't outright discount you, as like not5150 prerequisites would.
No offence, just my opinion, you might be missing out on some good people, but I suppose you have to lay down guidelines, so fair enough if that's what you want to do.
Arrrggggh, hang on a minute, this is the PR forum, oops, sorry, back to topic. 
brp, I wouldn't put the exam off too long.In fact, book it a little earlier, in my opinion, it'll keep you focused when it's nearer in time.
They say on these boards not to learn PR while learning another subject.They say to choose a book that you have an interest in, but don't need to learn under pressure, this is to start with.
This is good advice.What I'm saying is that if you are comfortable with PR, then you'll be ok, PR does work, every pass you make you will benefit from, so it's cool.
Don't worry about using your old style of reading a little for your MCP studies, don't put pressure on yourself learning PR techniques with a book that you also need to study and learn.Only do this once you know the PR techniques.
I aim to take 210 and 215 soon as possible, and I'm brushing up with activation techniques.
I hope you do well, keep us informed, we're all here to help.
Thanks!

[This message has been edited by flex22 (edited February 23, 2004).]