How I Passed the PMP Exam - #6 Exam Preparations
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 (Read here)
Chapter 6 : Exam Prep (Current post)
Chapter 7 : Post Exam (Read here)
Now, let’s dive in to an overview of the PMP exam preparations.
Exam Prep
The next important thing after studying is to prepare for the exam day! Here, I’ll share the essential strategies and tips that helped me navigate the final stages of my exam preparation effectively.
Wohoo, exciting!
# 1. Review and Reinforce Key Concepts
I dedicated a lot of time to reviewing and reinforcing key concepts covered in the PMP exam syllabus. I focused on understanding project management frameworks, processes, and best practices across various knowledge areas (you will get a clearer picture once you have completed the course). I used a mix of textbooks, online courses, and practice exams to solidify my understanding.
Tips : Stick to the materials you planned to use earlier in your studying phase. Adding too many new materials won’t necessarily give you better results. Be smart about this!
# 2. Simulate Exam Conditions
I familiarized myself with the exam format and conditions by taking practice exams under simulated testing conditions. I allocated time blocks equivalent to the actual exam duration and practiced answering questions within the allotted time frame. This helped me build stamina, improve time management skills, and reduce anxiety on exam day.
About 6-8 weeks before the exam date, I sacrificed a few hours a week to simulate exam conditions and do practice tests. It takes 66 days to form a habit, and this practice helped me feel at ease when sitting for the actual exam (which lasts 3-4 hours).
# 3. Identify Weak Areas and Targeted Review
I used practice exams and diagnostic quizzes to identify my weak areas and areas needing additional review. I focused on strengthening my understanding of these topics through targeted study sessions, additional readings, and reviewing relevant materials. I prioritized my study efforts based on areas with the highest potential for improvement.
I usually scheduled another day in the week to diagnose the results from the simulated test. It really depends on your study style, but I spent about 3-6 hours on diagnosis and revision post-simulated test (spread out across the week).
# 4. Develop Exam-Taking Strategies
I developed effective exam-taking strategies to approach different question types and scenarios encountered in the PMP exam. I practiced techniques such as the process of elimination, flagging challenging questions for review, and managing time effectively across exam sections. Having a clear strategy helped me navigate the exam confidently and efficiently.
I marked questions that I got correct, wrong, and needed further revision. This helped me identify patterns in the question themes and spot areas that still needed focus.
# 5. Maintain a Positive Mindset
I cultivated a positive mindset and confidence in my preparation efforts as I approached exam day. I visualized myself succeeding in the exam, focused on my strengths, and reminded myself of the hard work I had put into my preparation. Adopting a positive attitude helped alleviate anxiety and boosted my performance on exam day.
Hanging out with people who had a positive mindset and brought out the best in me was crucial. Mental and emotional support helped me prepare for the exam! Be on hiatus if you needed to.
# 6. Review Exam Policies and Procedures
I familiarized myself with the exam policies, procedures, and rules outlined by the Project Management Institute (PMI). I reviewed the PMP handbook and exam guidelines to understand important information regarding scheduling, exam administration, identification requirements, and exam retake policies. Being well-informed ensured a smooth and stress-free exam experience.
I checked in with my lecture/coach/training organizer for help with this. They usually have a proper guide to help you feel more prepared for the E-day (Exam Day)!
# 7. Take Care of Yourself
I prioritized self-care in the days leading up to the exam to ensure I was in peak mental and physical condition. I got adequate sleep, ate nutritious meals, and engaged in stress-reducing activities such as meditation, yoga, or leisurely walks. Taking care of myself helped me stay focused, alert, and ready to tackle the exam with confidence.
I booked a day every two weeks for self-care! You can plan yours too.
# 8. Plan Your Exam Day
I planned the logistics for exam day well in advance to minimize stress and ensure a smooth experience. I confirmed my exam appointment, familiarized myself with the exam center location and parking options (we checked out the exam center a week before just to be sure!), and prepared necessary items such as identification documents, exam authorization letter, and approved calculators. Arriving at the exam center early allowed me ample time for check-in procedures and to settle any nerves before the exam began.
By following these exam preparation strategies and tips, I felt well-equipped to tackle the PMP exam with confidence, competence, and success. Stay focused, stay determined, and trust in your preparation as you embark on this final stage of your journey towards becoming a certified Project Management Professional.
That's it for this week, folks. Catch you in the next chapter of #WawaPMPJourney!
Catch you later, and remember, “Everything is Workable!”"
