This book, as the title suggests is arranged alphabetically, but it does not limit itself to a strict alphabetical order. For example, if you are interested in finding out more about the “Contacts” features available in Outlook 2002, the sector of the book under “Contacts” contains information on using and viewing the Contacts Folder, adding, editing and categorizing items, linking Contact items together and finding and printing Contact information, among other options. One of the strengths of the book is the straightforward, no nonsense directives for accomplishing tasks. The author provides the reader with step-by-step instructions and an ample supply of graphic Figures that display and help to demonstrate how the process would appear on the screen.  

As reference guides go, this one did a nice job of competently handling the subject matter (I learned things just by reading the definitions) but it also provided the reader with “Tips” which were very helpful. Many “See Also” suggestions and explanatory “Notes” added to the richness of reading this text and trying to absorb the information provided. These extra tidbits allow you to personalize and customize your Outlook 2002 views, functions and operations the way you see fit. Another plus to using such a reference guide was the increased comfort it gave me in terms of experimenting and trying various functionalities that I would have otherwise left alone. Once I decided to actually use the guide to enhance my current Outlook 2002 I was pleased with not only the knowledge I accrued, but also the outcome. In other words, when I used this guide to complete a task, it worked and it did not lose me or confuse me in the process. 

My favorite aspect of this book was the direct approach it took, making it simple to read and follow for even someone who is not an experienced user. All that is required of you is to know the name of the action or process you want to utilize and the book very effectively walks you through it. I tried to think as if I was a new Outlook user and it seemed to work even in that scenario. Definitions were clear and concise and the step-by-step directions were well-described and accurate, at least the ones I tried as I reviewed the book. This is a good reference book for experienced users who want to improve the way Outlook 2002 works for them and for inexperienced users who want to learn the basics and develop their skills in Outlook 2002. 

What was least appealing was the lack of color used in the text and graphics, especially in the Figures presented. The nontraditional approach which resulted in no Index, appendix or chapter headings in the book was both unique and could be disconcerting, especially if you skip the introduction to the book. While the absence of chapters and an index is somewhat unusual, you can still use the traditional numbered pages or the alphabetic letters that are found on every page to help you navigate through this text. Despite these concerns, I would recommend this book to both new and intermediate users of Outlook 2002. I won’t presume to speak for advanced or expert users since I am neither. I am a big fan of reference guides because they help users improve their techniques, knowledge and skills. 

The book can be found online at Amazon or in Barnes and Nobles or Borders Bookstores locally. If you have the ISBN number (1-931150-24-9) or exact title, (Outlook 2002 From A to Z) you can search for these titles online. The book contains 208 pages and it’s suggested price is $11.95 according to the Redmond Technology Press Web site. Not using color examples probably kept the price this low. A simple Amazon.com search reveals the price online may be less, and indeed, it was only $9.56 for a new copy or $6.49 for a used copy. You might also check with your local Barnes and Noble or Borders bookstores to see if they have it. 

It should be mentioned that this is one of a series of ten quick reference guides. If you are interested in obtaining more information about this series of  A to Z  quick reference guides, go to http://www.redtechpress.com/atoz.htm .