Dear PMP aspirants,

Below is my lesson learned for the successful completion of the PMP credential;

A special thank you to this forum for the invaluable knowledege an.contributions.

1. Failed in the 1st attempt.

      Reason: Lack of adequate study--failure justified!!!

I read only PMBOK and solved couple of random questions. Some people passed using PMBOK only but I seriously don't advice that.

2. Passed 2nd attempt.

      Reason: Followed the PMZilla study plan benchmark -RIta, PMBOK plus PMStudy questions.

I read Rita book 2 times, completed her Fastrack questions, completed PMStudy questions, and host of other questions from different sources.

Breakdown of results of practice tests:

Rita Fastrack knowledge areas: Average between 69-78

PMStudy1- 69

PMStudy2- 67

PMStudy3- 65

PMStudy4- 70

Headfirst- 70

Didn't do well on Oliver Lehman 75 & 175, failed to remember or record my score.

Summary:

You must understand Project Management to pass the test. With this said, I highly recommend Rita's book. Understanding is the key. With that you don't have to memorize so much in the ITTO. Had couple of questions on ITTO though. And risk management is a MUST know.

The exam will appear easy if you study well.

Keep the energy and spirit high even if don't do well in practice questions. The most important thing is to go over the questions you answered, and go back to understand the concept behind it. I am hopefull you will not fail if you do this.

Studied for 2months intensively, average of 5hours per day in the last 1month. And I peak 9-10hours per day on weekends. Although I have covered PMBOK in my first attempt, so i will say the course took me 4-5months study.

Also, I used headfirst book to reference on areas I needed to know more.

I give credit to Rajesh Nairs summary, very good.

Don't panic, give it your best and you shall excel.

Wish you all best of luck.

Yours in the PMP league,

Zino