Has anyone used QuickCert training materials?

I am considering getting the QuickCert training for the 70-431 Microsoft SQL Server 2005 Implementation and Maintenance exam. I am currently a systems analyst and I'm being pushed to get this even though I am not a DBA. In fact, I have very little "formal" technical training--I have just learned by doing over the years in AS/400, open source and, now, a Microsoft shop.

Currently, I am attempting to make my way through Microsoft's MCTS Self-Paced Training Kit--a text book and a couple of CDs. I am being expected to take the test on June 6th and there is no way I'm going to be able to learn this stuff that fast by reading a text book and attempting to do the practices/exercises by then (barring a miracle). I will have to pay for anything I do outside of using the text and I can get the QuickCert training kit for $400 (was told it's a "promotional offer" instead of the regular $600).

Any information would be greatly appreciated.

Peace...

C

I browsed the Sybex books for the cert and did the practice tests. The tests in the Sybex books comes closest to the questions I saw on the actual exams.

I prepped for my MCDBA that way and also my CISSP.

I'm prepping for my CCNA right now and am using the newest edition sybex book as well as CBTnuggets and practice tests, and a simulator.

I'm not saying not to use the Quickcert, as I've never used it and don't know much about them, but the Sybex practice tests will evaluate the extent of your knowledge on the tested material and then send you to the chapter in the book to refresh things you aren't testing well on. If you can get in the 90's or high 80's on the practice tests, you will probably do well enough to certify on the real exam.