Hello everyone...

Put 2nd attempt in my subject to give hope to those who did not pass on 1st attempt. I would check this site a few times a week for any edge I could receive. I've been a silent reader for 5 months now so wanted to share my LLs.

First time I took test

• 3 years ago and didn't do well.


• Underestimated the test because I felt having 7+ years PM experience would do


• Only read PMBOK 4th Edition once


• Used some material from 3rd edition I took at PM bootcamp a year prior


• Only did 75 question Oliver Lehman test (no other practice test)

This time (Preparation)

• Decided 5 months ago to try it again


• Started studying harder the last 2 months


• Changed test date 4 times...contrary to others, I suggest you dont take the test until your ready


• Only used PMBOK for book reading


• Did almost 3000 practice questions...may be over kill but it made up for not having Andy or Rita book

This time (Test)

• Started off rough...after first 20 questions, I was seriously picking out dates for next test. It was in my mind "I am getting both Andy Crowe and Rita books within the week" cause it didn't look positive


• Between questions 50-120, I started getting confidence


• Opposed to what others say, I had 80-90 scenario questions... while most people say they get mostly one-liners


• Plenty of Risk and Quality questions


• At the end (took me 3 1/2 hours), paused 15 seconds before survey


• Thought it would be another 15 seconds when I hit End Survey, but CONGRADULATIONS popped up and I was in disbelief because of all the hard studying the past few months had paid off.


• Over the past 2 years, I've been PM for a $15mill project...with wife/kid at home makes time to study scarce but this site (amongst other things) gave me motivation.

Overall Assessment

• The hardest test I have ever taken but I think it was because of the pressure we put on ourselves to pass. So its definitely attainable to pass...thinking clearly and reading questions/answers a couple times helped me.


• There is the right way, the wrong way, your way and PMI way. Always think PMI way for this test


• Practice questions help tremendously


• Passing this test has brought more gratification than anything I've ever studied (including the day I got my Bachelors Degree)


• I cannot thank God enough for blessing me with the strength to be successful on this test

Good luck to everyone and stay positive...