Tips for Passing Your Project Management Professional (PMP) Exam

I've been a PMP for about 7 years now. I remember taking the PMP exam like it was yesterday. The nervousness one feels about taking the PMP exam can be settled with proper preparation. I took several steps to prepare myself for successful completion of the PMP exam. I'll share those steps with you.

Take the PMP Exam Prep Classes
The PMP prep class was offered at 3 of my local colleges. The classes are held according to the season. So although a class may be held within 3 miles of your home in the fall it may be held at another location during the next season. So it is important to get the class schedule ahead of time.

The PMP prep classes are often instructed by seasoned PMPs. They will share with you best practices for studying for the PMP. They will share their experiences and suggestions. If you have any questions outside of class time, the instructor is often happy to help.

Exhange Information with Your Peers
Having a study group will help you when you are preparing for the PMP exam. Choose to become a member of a study group after being a part of the PMP prep class for approximately 1 week. Other students will be happy to study with you. You can share your anxiety, notes and memory techniques.

Read Everything Related to the PMP
After being in the PMP prep class for a month, you will be able to gauge the most important areas of the exam. Using that information, you can decide upon your review schedule. This schedule should allow for study for at least 20 hours of PMP study a week. I used many study aids to help me focus and digest information for the PMP exam. I taped flash cards to walls in my home. I also purchased required reading for the PMP exam from amazon.com.

Get a Good Night's Sleep Before the Exam
I was very nervous before I took the exam. So, it was difficult for me to sleep. I took a walk until I was sleepy. It is important to get a good night's sleep before the PMP exam. Although it will be difficult to do so, it is important to try to relax. Perhaps get a massage the day before the exam. This way, you will be able to better focus on the information that is on the PMP exam.

Remember to call your instructors if you have any questions or concerns. Don't be afraid to reach out to your network. I took the PMP exam right after the prep class was over because I did not want to wait. For me, the was best decision because of my schedule. I was the first person in my class to take and pass the PMP exam. However, that technique may not work for everyone. Some people may find that they need more time to study. You have to use your best judgment in this instance.

After you have passed the PMP exam, don't forget to share the pros/cons with your classmates. Although you are not allowed to share actual questions, you can give them a general ideal what the test was like and what it focused on. My PMP exam was everything that my instructors said it was. So, I can't emphasis enough how important it is to listen to your instructors.

As you know, becoming a certified Project Management Professional you have the opportunity to enhance your career, skills and the field of project management. So, the preparation and anxiety is well worth it. Good luck on your PMP exam!