The CCNP Switching Exam Certification Guide is a guide to learn well - and we say that because you'll have to dig in your heels a bit to get the most from this book, and not primary in any way. Did you see this as a plus or minus really depends on your perspective: * If you're new to switching technology or student books, you may see this book as difficult to escape, because the usual "friendly" explanation and paragraphs padded absolutely nothing. * If you are a technician who is looking for instant information as much as you possibly can get, or if you are casually familiar with the technology to begin with, this book will be exactly what you're looking for. Although in short what this book does not, it explains things well and thoroughly. The writing is clear and concise, even when the concept may not, and the wealth of diagrams, flowcharts (this book is big on flowcharts and rightfully so), and tables help clarify and summarize the information you need to know for the exam. If the book can be said to have serious defects to technicians, is that this is "learned" books, not "test" book. In a sense, the CCNP Switching Exam Certification Guide prepares you for real life but it may fail you on the exam. However, that's why we say that diligent preparation will save the day. Unlike other books, which focus exclusively on solutions "quick fixes" that you can through the exam but can cause you to make an idiot in real life, this book relates to the whole shebang.