For Windows XP and Windows Server 2003 administrators preparing for the Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) elective exams, this book is invaluable. Not only does it provide the resources they need to succeed on the exams, but to succeed in the real world as well. Readers can think of this book as the notes they would have taken if they were to capture every essential nugget of information related to the skills measured in elective Exams 70-270, 70- 297, and 70-298. To begin with, "MCSE Core Electives in a Nutshell" allows a reader to see all of the topics expected for mastery in each of the exams. Each exam is covered in three parts: "Exam Overview", "Study Guide" and "Test Your Knowledge" sections. This makes for easy reference and a great study aid. Once they have completed the exams successfully, system administrators will find the book to be a valuable reference to core Windows administration skills.