10 Useful tips to pass PMP Examination

These are had been lot of questions around passing the PMP EXAM in first attempt. These are the apt and easy tips which I had used and applied before attempting the PMP exam.

Every PMP aspirant is ready in the mind but not in reality. Lot of efforts goes into it and and if you maintain the discipline, no one can stop you to clear the exam.


Let me talk about the 10 best ways to help you pass the PMP (Project Management Professional) exam in first attempt:

1. Enroll in a PMP Training Course

  • 35 contact hours of project management education are required to apply for the exam.
  • Choose a PMI-authorized training partner or a high-rated online course which will provide you the training certificate.

2. Use the PMBOK Guide and Agile Practice Guide

  • You can refer PMBOK 6 edition for details. However, advanced version of PMBOK Guide i.e  7th edition has come and it is crucial to refer atleast once.
  • The Agile Practice Guide is key as more than 50% of questions are based on agile and hybrid techniques.

3. Know and understand the Exam Format well:

  • There would be 180 questions and time limit is 230 minutes approx 4 hrs.
  • There are 3 specific domains- People (42%), Process (50%), Business Environment (8%). Questions are bifurcated as per these 3 domains. 
  • Question types: multiple choice, multiple responses, matching, hotspot, fill-in-the-blank, etc.

4. Use a Reliable Exam Prep Book

  • One of the best book for preparation is Rita Mulcahy’s PMP Exam Prep which is highly recommended.
  • Can refer Head First PMP for a more visual and engaging approach.

5. Rehearse, take maximum Practice Exams 

  • Simulate real exam conditions with full-length practice exams.
  • Ensure you are achieving atleast 80% consistently in all topics plus whole exam  before scheduling your real exam.
  • Check for incorrect ones and note them and analyze them carefully.

6. Master Scenario based Questions

  • Most questions are situational and it checks how you would apply the knowledge in real life situation.
  • Always relate, think practically and wear a hat of a PMI project manager and analyse what is the best option or next thing to do according to PMI.

7. Study Agile, Predictive and Hybrid Approaches

  • Understand Scrum, Kanban and hybrid models.
  • Know when to use these techniques alongwith the roles, ceremonies and what artifacts are involved.

8. Use Flashcards and Mind Maps

  • Flashcards (physical or digital) help with memorization of key terms and formulas.
  • Mind maps can visually organize domains and concepts for quicker review.

9. Self study, PMP Study Groups or Forums

  • Make a plan for Self study, atleast 3-4 hours daily for 1-2 months.
  • Join Communities on social platform which offer support, tips and practice questions. 
  • Discuss within groups on tough questions and get clarification from others preparing for the same goal.

10. Manage Stress and Plan Your Exam Day

  • Sleep well, be optimistic, don't stress and think of end goal.
  • Once you are ready, book the exam slot as per your locality. 
  • Take breaks strategically during the exam (you get two).
  • Trust your preparation and stay confident.

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