Why PMP Exam questions are written in complicated English?
Anonymous
I wonder if a PMP exam is an exam to evaluate Project Management Skills or English Language skills?
What is the justification for putting uncommon English words and complex sentence structures in this global exam?
Any thoughts? Saving Changes...
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Tamara TankosicGlobal Business Development Manager| Global Airport ConciergeLondon, Eng, United Kingdom
I personally wouldn't call the English complicated, just standard business English and similar to sentence structures and wording used in the study materials (PMBOK and others). I assume as the focus is on a global community of experienced people you would assume they have the level of business English required? Many words mentioned come more from the business side of things rather than a standard vocabulary test (coming from someone who has done all English tests up to C2 level and a GMAT I at least find it very different to a language test).
In regards to complex sentences, I believe these are done purposely in a sense where they want to make sure you understand the true issue/question as there are often a lot of distractors in a question (e.g. you are given multiple problems but only one is urgent, or you are given EVM figures but they don't apply to the question).
I thought the PMP can be taken in more languages than just English, meaning you can use a language aid during your exam (you just have to ask for one while booking the exam) which will have translations to the questions as well, at least that's what I read in the PMI handbook, although not sure if it is actually useful? Saving Changes...
Amit GaikwadSenior OPEX Consultant| AIC SteelJeddah, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
I believe, its a Psychometric test & it pushes you beyond what you know & checks your capability in applying your knowledge from all angles. For getting to know your skills, they will give you too much data, twisted/complex words along with the time pressure to answer it in time. This justification might help you to get convinced why the questions are so complex. Saving Changes...
Financial Management Specialist | US Peace CorpsYaounde, Centre, Cameroon
Hi,
It's true that a good mastery of the English language is required to facilitate your understanding of the PM subject matter... The Exam uses similar language with what you'll find in the PMBOK... Saving Changes...
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