Recently passed the PMP exam. A link to my story is below.
Brad FerrellLogistics Project Manager| KONE/Creator of pmppowwow.wordpress.comAllen, Tx, United States
Hey folks,
I passed the PMP examination recently and wanted to pass along a few tips that got me through those hard, grind it out hours of preparation. There were lots of up and downs, but focus, persistence, and resilience is the key. The exam is passable, but it is critical to plan your study approach months in advance, similar to planning a project in your line of work. Here are few things that helped me:
• If your planned exam date is at least three months out, I would spend two hours a day during the week and at least three hours a day during the weekend to prepare. This will give you enough time to take practice exams and improve in the areas which are under par.
• Taking regular breaks when needed. Breaking out a 6 hour study day into 3 two-hour periods or 6 one-hour periods is more productive that 1 six-hour period. Studies show your brain can absorb new information when it is in idle mode, so give it a rest from time to time.
• Measure your progress through quizzes and practice exams, in addition, take note of processes that are giving you the most fits. You want to make sure your weak areas are not exposed when you decide to take the final exam.
• Finally, be sure your mind is free of distractions and other stress-inducing factors when studying. However you choose to do this, whether it be more sleep, music, meditation, yoga, you will study better when you’re in a positive mental state.
I wrote a full story of my exam experience which you can read below. Enjoy!
Janice GrierSenior Technical Vendor Manager| ATTShelby Township, Mi, United States
Thanks Brad for sharing this it brought back memories. I shared your link with my mentees. Saving Changes...
MANDA SATSHISHINGAManager| Ordem Dos Engenheiros de AngolaLuanda, Angola
Really PMP exam change life.
Mine started when a US consultant company worked in our national oil company... I'm was impressed by the way the exhibits was prepared...my question was how is possible to have such clear documents...and the answer was the PMBOK Guide 4th edit.
And here I'm, PMP.
Learnt more than was needed for the exam. Saving Changes...
RAJAT KAUSHIKGeneral Manager| OIL & NATURAL GAS CORPORATION LIMITEDNew Delhi, India
Hi Brad
Nice to read about your success mantra.
During our classroom sessions for PMP preparation, the trainer told us that passing the PMP exam should be a byproduct of our preparation. It really is. Project management is 'Life science '. Saving Changes...
Nice and thanks for sharing your experience. I believe that it can be of much worth to me as I make my way to becoming PMP. I am happy and looking forward for PMPs sharing their success mantras in this community so that new practitioners would be able to get mentally prep. I do have this distraction issues whilst prep , need to work on that. Anyway thanks Saving Changes...
