Hello All, 

i have been a silent user over the last month and wanted to take this opportunity to share my experience. I feel like I have benefited from many of the posts that has really helped me and encouraged me as I prepared to take the exam.

i began preparing in March and finally submitted my application to PMI in May, my  app was audited and it took me another month to get everything back. Once I got approval I immediately scheduled my appointment because I wanted to take the  exam before it changes at the end of July; luckily I was able to get an evening appointment which worked out fine.

Here are some of the things I did to prepare. Read Rita's book and took all the end of chapter exams. Read PMbok 4th. I did a second pass of both books and tried to pay close attention to the things I did not fully grasp on the first pass. I had a copy of Andy Crows PMP PREP book and did a quick run through it. I was especially interested in reading information on the framework, terms, and the time and cost management processes. I liked how he explained network analysis and earn value management. I also completed his test - 200 questions. After taking any mock exam, I was always careful to look at lessons learned. 

Once I discovered this site and found out about some of the other places, i was able to take as many free mock exams as I could; altogether about 10 or so. My score ranged from 69 thru mid-90's on the easier exams. I paid $50 for Brainbok premium, that's the only one I paid for. I found the flash cards to be especially helpful. Brainbok mock exam was tough as well.. The last two weeks before the real exam, I took 2 tough 200 questions mock exams, one each week, did some reviews of both Rita and PMBOK and worked on flash cards from Brainbok. i was extremely tired the day of the exam but was able to remain alert throughout. I would suggest getting as much rest  as possible before the exam