How to prepare for the PMP (Project Management Professional) Certification

Recently, several of my friends and co-workers have asked questions about the PMP (Project Management Professional) certification. I thought what better way to share my experiences than with a new post. Seeing that I haven’t had much time to share my thoughts lately, this would be great for me and all those who are interested. I obtained my PMP in January 2007, after a gruling three years of fumbling around and not really studying for the test. So let’s get started.

Top 10.5 Things You Should Do - PMP Test Preparation

1. Become a member of PMI - The Project Management Institute (PMI) is the organization that maintains the PMP and other professional creditials. Becoming a member is easy and can be done from the comforts of your home/office. Visit www.pmi.org to become a member.
2. Start your PMP Application - Once you have taken the steps to become a member of the PMI, you should begin start the online application process. Starting an application, does not mean that you have to take the exam right away. The application allows you to log your project management to validate your experience. PMI requires that you have a few thousand hours of non-overlappying project management experience. In addition, you can keep track of your Professional Development Units (PDUs). PMI also asks that you have developed your skills through educational events/courses which must be logged with the organization.
3. Gather information on your old projects - I found this task daunting until I dusted off a few old resumes. In order to complete the non-overlapping project management experience, you’ll have to remember and account for projects that span about three years. PMI asks that you determine how many hours were spent on a project during a specific phase. For instance, you could log that you spent 250 hours in the Analysis Phase as a Project Coordinator. You must show that you have experience in all phases of a project: Initiate, Plan, Monitoring & Controlling, Execution and Closing.
4. Preparation Assessment - Take a moment to be realistic with yourself at this stage. If you are two years away from obtaining the experience necessary to take the exam don’t start to prepare for the exam. Secondly, if you don’t have the time to devote to rigorous study during a specified period of time before taking the exam be thoughtful and wait. I made this mistake and I casually studied for the exam here and there for three years. What a bonehead mistake. The Project Body of Knowledge (PMBOK) changed on me three times while I was studying. By the time I was truly ready to dedicate the time to rigorous study, I had to start all over anyway. Be smart and take note of my lessons learned.
5. Join a local PMI Club - Did you know that there is probably a local club willing to help you prepare for the PMP? Be sure to search the PMI website for information on how to become active in your local club. There are many opportunities to network with other professionals and easy ways to build a study strategy that will fit your needs. My local club assisted me with finding courses that would fit my study habits and I also fulfilled my some of my PDUs simply by attending the meetings. Joining a club is a valuable resource, so take advantage of the opportunities that membership provides you from PMI.
6. Schedule your Exam - If you are 12-9 months away from taking the exam schedule it. Going through the process of scheduling the exam makes the event real and allows you to prepare your mind for the event.
7. Learn PMBOK Language - The PMP exam is a four hour test of your knowledge of the PMBOK. The exam does not test your ability or experience as a project manager. Don’t make the mistake of just showing up for the exam expecting to ace it with flying colors because of your years of experience. Get your mind prepared to learn what PMI wants you to know and you’ll be well on your way to properly prepare for the exam.
8. Start Studying - There will be a strategy that works for you which only you know. Understanding your own study habits are key to preparing for the exam. Once I finally got my mind fixed on rigorous study I laid out the perfect plan for me. Here was my strategy:

   First Step: Purchase Rita’s Guide to the PMP, excellent book!!!
   Second Step: Download the PMBOK and read it from cover to cover
   Third Step: Complete all examples from Rita’s Guide
   Fourth Step: Enroll in Velociteach Bootcamp course
   Fifth Step: Take online assessments from Velociteach in preparation for the bootcamp
   Sixth Step: Complete the bootcamp

   Whatever your strategy is, keep on schedule and get support.

9. Memorization - There are several things that you should memorize specifically for the exam. If you have not committed those things to memory don’t take the exam. Looking at Rita’s Guide or other exam preparation material will point those key things out. Remember, it is a four-hour exam. Endurance is key, so preparing yourself with the right amount of confidence early will help you endure.
10. Day of the Exam - Relax. You’re prepared so don’t sweat it. Make sure you eat a great meal and get lots of rest the day prior. You want to feel refreshed and confident. Wear comfortable clothing and familiarize yourself with the testing facility. Arrive at the facility about 45-60 minutes early so you have time to calm your nerves before taking the exam.

And finally 10.5: If you have people close to you in your life, such as a wife or girlfriend ask them for support during the process. It helps to have those close to you aligned on your journey of passing the exam.

Good luck and feel free to reach out to me if you have additional questions.