How I Passed the PMP Exam - #5 Study Tips
November last year kicked off with a resounding success! I conquered the Project Management Professional (PMP) exam, securing an 'Above Target' score (Yay, Alhamdulillah!) on my very first attempt after just four months of preparation. It's a journey that demanded strategic planning and dedication, especially while juggling a full-time job, like me.
As I reflect on my adventure, I realize that there was a careful strategy that I have planned and applied throughout my learning journey. So here’s my personal insights as we explore each chapter together.
To make this blogpost easier to digest, I am dividing this blogpost into few small chapters of 0-7 :
Chapter 0 : An Overview of PMP Journey (Read here)
Chapter 1 : Study Strategy (Read here)
Chapter 2 : Study Schedule (Read here)
Chapter 3 : Study Materials (Read here)
Chapter 4 : Study Progress (Read here)
Chapter 5 : Study Tips (Curent blogpost)
Chapter 6 : Exam Prep
Chapter 7 : Post Exam (Read here)
Now, let’s dive in to an overview of the PMP exam preparations.
Study Tips
It's really important to prepare a smart study strategy tailored to your individual needs—especially when you're a working adult! You've got family to attend to, a demanding job, house chores, community responsibilities, etc. Me too!
Here are step-by-step tips on how I did my study strategy:
#1 Strategize Your Learning and Measure Understanding
In real life, project management, successful projects are the ones where you measure progress or quality.
I approached my learning by applying the same concept. I took a full practice test early in my preparation phase to gauge my current understanding of the PMP syllabus. This initial assessment helped me identify areas of strength and weakness, allowing me to tailor my study plan accordingly.
How to do it: Find a full course test, sit for it, and check your scores.
#2 Design the Right Study Routine Based on Your Personality Type
Everyone has unique learning preferences and styles. Understanding my personality type guided me in designing a study routine that aligned with my strengths and preferences. Whether you're an introvert who prefers solitary study sessions or an extrovert who thrives in group discussions, adapt your study routine to suit your personality for maximum effectiveness.
These are the personality types I used:
16 Personalities & MBTI:** This test gives you a detailed description of who you are and why you do things the way you do. [16 Personalities Test]
Clifton Strengths: This test gives you insight into your strengths to help unlock your potential for better performance. [Clifton Strengths]
Note: I'm an INTJ-T, who prefers a deep dive into new subjects. I don’t mind long, wordy explanations from textbooks and deep research in my study. I prefer alone time (also a morning riser!)—so I designed my routine based on that preference!
#3 Prioritize Healthy Eating Habits, Including Brain-Boosting Foods
I fueled my brain with nutritious foods known to enhance cognitive function. Incorporating "brain fruits" such as walnuts, blueberries, strawberries, and bananas into my diet supported memory, focus, and overall brain health. A well-nourished brain is better equipped to absorb and retain complex information.
Resources:
#4 Take Regular Breaks to Refresh Your Mind
It's important to rest and rejuvenate to maintain cognitive performance. I used the Pomodoro technique during deep learning sessions by incorporating short breaks every 25 or 50 minutes into my study sessions to prevent mental fatigue and sustain focus. I also prioritized quality sleep of 7-8 hours each night for optimal brain function.
Resources:
- [Pomofocus] | [Tomato Timers]
- [Read about how to sleep well]
#5 Incorporate Movement and Exercise into Your Routine
Physical activity isn't just beneficial for the body; it's also essential for cognitive function and memory retention.
I integrated movement and exercise breaks into my study routine to boost blood flow to the brain, improve concentration, and enhance overall mental well-being.
Resources: [Grow with Jo on YouTube]
#6 Stay Organized and Consistent
I maintained a structured study schedule and stuck to it consistently. Keeping track of my study sessions, goals, and progress using calendars, planners, or digital apps ensured steady progress toward my certification goal.
Resources:
[Notion] [Trello] - I use these tool to create my study plan
I have FREE (and PAID) templates for study tips, project management lying around at my shop (coming soon!)
#7 Review and Reflect Regularly
Allocating time for regular review and reflection to reinforce my learning and identify areas for improvement was crucial. Using techniques like spaced repetition to review previously studied material at intervals ensured long-term retention.
Resources:
#8 Join Network and Seek Accountability
I didn't hesitate to seek support from peers, mentors, or online communities dedicated to PMP preparation. Engaging with others provided valuable insights, motivation, and accountability throughout my study journey.
Resources:
Join live sessions on Wednesdays with Andrew Ramdayal
Keep in touch with your coursemates or trainer—join Facebook groups if available. I engaged with this Project Management Coach (Dr. MC), and he was great! [Dr. MC on LinkedIn]
#9 Embrace a Playful Mindset
I'd approached my studies with enthusiasm and creativity, making the material more engaging and memorable. This playful approach encourages experimentation, exploration, and a willingness to embrace challenges, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of project management principles.
By incorporating these personalized study tips into my PMP preparation routine, I optimized my learning experience, enhanced my retention of key concepts, and increased my confidence as I approached exam day. Remember, the journey to becoming a certified Project Management Professional is as much about the process as it is about the destination. Embrace each step of the journey, stay adaptable, and keep pushing forward toward your certification goal.
That's it for this week, folks. Catch you in the next chapter of #WawaPMPJourney!
Catch you later, and remember, “Everything is Workable!”"
