Hello everyone,

This is my first post here. Since I extensively used this forum in the last couple of weeks, I wanted to post my Lessons Learned, in case it helps anybody out there.

Initiating, Closing - MP

Planning, Executing, M&C - P

Total Study Time - 6 weeks (including 1 week of in class boot camp to get 35 contact hours)

Study Material - PMBOK, Rita Mulcahy, TSI (only during the TSI Boot Camp)

Practice Exams - Rita's Simulation Software, pmstudy.com Free Test 1, Oliver Lehmann Free 75 & 175 questions 

I probably studied for a total of 6 weeks after the Boot camp week. Weekdays, I tried to study for an hour everyday and on weekends, about 3-4 hours/day while watching TV. I did take the Labor Day long weekend off since I was too overwhelmed. 

The actual exam was very similar to pmstudy.com Free Test 1. Rita's tests are much harder than the actual exam, but they do a really good job of preparing you.

I read the PMBOK end to end once. Also referred to Rita's book for explanations while ploughing through the simulation software. Extensively referred to Rajesh Nair's notes for revisions. 

Last couple of  days were spent reviewing Rajesh Nair's notes and PMBOK, especially the ITTOs. 

I completed the actual exam in about 3.5 hours and then spent the last half an hour reviewing my "marked" questions. Couldn't get through all of them since I'd marked almost 50 questions for review :-\

Suggestions -

1. Lots of questions on EVM, Network Diagram, Conflict Resolution, Procurement and Risks. 

2. PMBOK is sufficient, as long as you practise lots of good quality tests

3. I took only 1 full length mock exam since it's not easy for me to devote 4 hours at a stretch. If you have a problem concentrating or if you are a nervous test taker, you  might want to take atleast 2-3 mock exams. 

Good luck all!