Learning Java Head First

I purchased a copy of Head First Design Patterns. I read the first few pages and I was impressed by how accessible the content is, I actually remember what I read and I want to keep reading more.

Making information accessible is the first and most important step in good technical documentation. I love adding simple and easy to read illustrations to my own documents. A diagram, line drawing or even a simple model that shows how things connect together in context make a big difference.

Based on what I read, I ordered Head First Java, 2nd edition and Head First Object-Oriented Analysis and Design: A Brain Friendly Guide to OOA&D.  I didn’t intend to go on a book buying spree but I felt like it was the right thing to do.

Whizlab SCJP 5.0 Preparation

I purchased a license for Whizlab’s SCJP 5.0 exam simulator. The simulator helps with exam preparation by presenting questions that mimic the SCJP test conditions. Questions are presented with a time limit and afterwards you can review each test question to understand the correct answer.

I took the diagnostic exam in two parts and I was overwhelmed. The test is intimidating. I learned that the diagnostic is actually harder then the real test. I believe it is a good investment. The exam simulation motivated me to study harder. It infused me with more enthusiasm for learning the Java API.