7 Lessons Learned from the PMP® Exam

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“I had a plan laid out and had to rebaseline it twice but it helps to view where you are and align it once every 2-3 days,” says

one student on our forum.

1. Make a plan

• Create a plan in a format that works for you and stick to it.

• Having a plan will allow you to assess if you are on track with your studies.

• You can take corrective action if you are not.

“Get a copy of the current edition and read it twice,” recommends one successful student.

2. Read the PMBOK® Guide

• First, highlight the important parts. • Make flashcards of those highlights. • Doing the flash cards will help get the information into your

head. • Go through your flashcards daily to remind yourself of the key

points in the PMBOK® Guide.• Go through the glossary twice.

The PMBOK® Guide is the basis for majority of the questions in the exam, so you really do have to know the concepts and the terminology thoroughly.

“The use of full exams besides learning is to get to a discipline in taking the 4 hour exam,” one explains.

3. Take sample exams

• Note what you got wrong in your sample exams.

• It will help you establish where you need to concentrate your remaining study hours.

“Commuting to my work and back takes 2-3 hours so I decided to utilize this time effectively by listening to The PM PrepCast.”

4. Make the most of your study time

• Find moments in your day where you can study.

• Passing the PMP exam successfully requires a lot of study .

• Seek out extra time in the day where you can revise concepts to boost your study hours.

“Trust yourself,” advises one new PMP®.

5. Be confident

• Building your confidence is a key strategy to successfully passing the exam.

• Enter the exam room knowing you have the skills and knowledge to pass the PMP® Exam.

“Plan on your exam time expanding during the real exam,” suggests one student.

6. Time yourself

• Make sure you know what 4 hours feels like.

• Check if you can get through a complete sample exam in that time.

“People are asked about their experiences during their preparations and the exam itself,” the new PMP® says.

7. Listen to others

• Lessons learned are a great way to prepare.

• Talk to previous students and discuss your study plans with members of your local PMI® Chapter.

• Listen to as many people talking about their own journey to becoming a PMP® as you can.