Passing the PMP (project management professional) exam at the first attempt will be a piece of cake – that is, if you prepare for it and know exactly what you are doing. If so many people can ace this exam at the first attempt, why can’t you?
Here are some tips that will help you pass the exam at first attempt:
• You will need to step outside your comfort zone and believe that if you do homework and take the time to prepare very well and have the necessary work experience – you will pass the exam at first attempt, I guarantee you!
• You should take the time to access your best studying method. Explore the best alternatives that will work for YOU and You alone! For example, if your best studying style is Audio, search for the best audio method; if you love to read, then search for the very best written resources; do you respond best to visuals? You will save yourself a whole lot of time and money.
• Figure out your learning budget of both time and finances. Think about it, how much is the PMP exam worth to you financially and time wise? If your organization is paying for you, then whoopdee doo! If they are not, then assess the cost benefits and simply use the ole “earned value” approach. Remember this, free is never free if it does not address your needs. Ensure that the program addresses your career needs before you even think about investing your money. You will also need to plan your time wisely so that you do not waste your emotional resources on unnecessary worries and floundering.
• Do not limit yourself to one style only even within your most preferred learning style. Let me level with you here – the test is just too challenging to offer you enough confidence and exposure to various styles of questions and approaches with just one vendor’s approach. Having a variety of methods will reinforce your readiness and boost your self confidence that you can pass the exam.
• Come up with a study plan and STICK TO IT like white on rice! Hey, do not even think about coming up with excuses and derailing yourself – trust me, the temptation to get derailed can be pretty strong. Ensure that you study hard and efficiently. Do take breaks in between studying.
• Take a number of practice tests from each every source you can lay your hands on. Make sure the practice tests are of sufficient difficulty because if they are just too easy, it might lead you into a sense of false confidence. Take the practice test with timing in mind.
• Make sure you get at least 75 percent on the mock tests before you sit for the real thing. Remember, the PMP exam isn’t cheap! So do not waste your time and money if you know that you are not going to study hard enough to pass the exam at the first attempt.
I wish you the very best!
