Well Ali,
If u r planning just to pass the exam, it may take 2/3 months continuous study. But i think if u try to learn all fundamental aspects of
SCJP syllebus u have to study some parts outside Java as u 'll get in Khalid's book ---- and u'll enjoy the second way. If u try to feel Java,u'll find it helpful when going for Advanced Java. Otherwise u'll get something horrible waiting for u when coding in
J2EE, Servelet/JSP,
JDBC,Swing,Data Structure & Algorithm,Network Programming,RMI/CORBA,Jini etc. Ultimately u have to work with them if u r going to be a software developer. So grasp the fundas with confidence taking time. It may still take 3/5 months or more dedicated study (and pleasure) ....depending on ur previous IT experience or involvement. BTW, these r only my personal view and experienced ranchers may help u further in this topic.....
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Muhammad Ashikuzzaman (Fahim)
Sun Certified Programmer for the Java� 2 Platform
--When you learn something, learn it by heart!
[This message has been edited by Ashik uzzaman (edited September 16, 2001).]