.::.Easy Mind Reading.::.

With an abundance of computer courses to choose from, it can be mind-boggling to find the right one. Go for one that's on a par with your personal character, and that will be a useful asset in the commercial world.

Should you be considering becoming more IT literate, perhaps with a Microsoft Office Package, or possibly becoming professionally qualified, you can choose from many training options.

The latest training methods currently allow students to be educated on an interactive course, that is much cheaper than traditional courses. The great value of the new courses means anyone can afford them.

You should look for accredited simulation materials and an exam preparation system included in your course.

Steer clear of relying on non-accredited exam papers and questions. The type of questions asked is sometimes startlingly different - and this could lead to potential problems once in the actual exam.

Mock exams will prove very useful as a resource to you - so much so, that at the real thing, you don't get phased.

With all the options available, does it really shock us that the majority of career changers get stuck choosing the job they will follow.

Consequently, if you've got no background in the IT market, how are you equipped to know what any qualified IT worker does each day? Let alone arrive at what certification program is the most likely for you to get there.

Arriving at an informed choice only comes from a thorough study of many shifting key points:

* Personality factors plus what interests you - which work-centred jobs you love or hate.

* Do you want to get qualified because of a particular reason - e.g. do you aim to work at home (maybe self-employment?)?

* Any personal or home requirements you have?

* Many students don't properly consider the amount of work required to get fully certified.

* You need to understand the differences across all the training areas.

In actuality, you'll find the only real way to research these matters will be via a meeting with a professional who has experience of Information Technology (as well as the commercial needs.)

Any advisor who doesn't question you thoroughly - chances are they're just trying to sell you something. If they're pushing towards a particular product before looking at your personality and current experience level, then it's very likely to be the case.

Of course, if you've got any work-experience or certification, then it's not unreasonable to expect to commence studying further along than someone who is new to the field.

It's wise to consider user-skills and software training first. This can set the scene for your on-going studies and make your learning curve a much easier going.

A fatal Faux-Pas that potential students often succumb to is to choose a career based on a course, instead of focusing on the desired end-result. Schools have thousands of students who took a course because it seemed fun - instead of the program that would surely get them the job they want.

Imagine training for just one year and then end up doing the actual job for 10-20 years. Don't make the error of choosing what sounds like an 'interesting' course and then put 10-20 years into a job you hate!

Get to grips with earning potential and the level of your ambition. This can often control what precise exams will be expected and how much effort you'll have to give in return.

We advise all students to chat with experienced industry personnel before following a particular training programme. This gives some measure of assurance that it contains the relevant skills for that career path.