Rating:  - Missing MSDN is worth it
Microsoft was able to supply the MSDN disks quickly. This package is worth the price because I couldn't find the software alone for less than $150 CDN. A little work to get the whole thing, but still a bargain.
Rating:  - Missing MSDN Discs
As with many of the posts that I have seen, my Deluxe edition did not come with the MSDN CD(s). It would have been nice to see a "contents" list on the side of the box, as until I did some searching I was not sure if I was even supposed to receive them. I made a quick call to Microsoft and they have arranged to ship the missing material right away.
Rating: - Get the help files from Microsoft
I phoned Microsoft (here in the UK) and they admitted it was a mistake to omit the help files CD - they are posting mine. Still it took 30 minutes on the phone to find someone who knew what they were talking about ... The book is ok but I prefer the much larger Programming VB.NET.
Rating:  - Batteries Not Included
This package should have a big warning on the cover, similar to the "batteries not included" warnings on children's toys.
The glaring omission from VB.NET Learning Edition is the Help system. There is none. The install routine prompts you to insert MSDN CD 1. But it ain't there. You are apparently expected to buy it separately, though this is not mentioned anywhere on the cover.
The intricacies of VB.NET are not obvious, even if you're an experienced VB6 developer. Many of the most basic things you are used to do not work. If you need help you can try your luck searching on the MSDN website, but the easy interaction you need and expect from a help system is simply not there.
The book that comes with the package may well be a useful learning tool. It is pitched at beginning programmers as it should be, and as the name implies it takes you step by step through various projects. But unfortunately the minute you step outside the book you are left alone and help-less.
The package as it stands is not up to the task it sets itself, and it should be recalled and amended immediately.
Rating: - Very Good book for all programmers
This book was very helpful to me and would be to anyone who knows a little about visual basic.
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