Hello friends,

I feel proud , elated today as I write my experience on passing the prestigious PMP exam ( in first attempt ! )

I must say its one of the most beautiful exams I have given , as it tests your patience , stamina , knowledge , determination and risk taking ability too ( its not easy to submit 500$ out of your own pocket , especially when they are not getting reimbursed) 

My prepration started on 15th July'13 and I nailed the exam on 13th Sept'13.

I read PMBok 5th edition thrice , Headfirst PMP (4th Ed) , PMZilla 200 tough questions and Kerzner as well.

I read Headfirst PMP first up , so as to build a basic foundation. Then followed that up with PMBOK .

Then started practicing questions and again read PMBOK . 

For the first 4-5 weeks , I completed reading the books and other study material , then started with the PMzilla 200 questions.

The first time I gave the test , I scored around 50% ( which made me really nervous) . But the tip here is that once should really read the question hard and revisit the PMBok when a concept is causing you confusion.

The exam threw a few surprises too  -

- No questions were asked on ethics !!! 

- At least 6 questions came on stages of team forming  ( ex. - Identify which stage the team is in )

- 3 -4 questions of calculating number of Communication channels 

-Tell which phase you are in ( QA of QC or Quality planning )

- 10-12 questions on earned value concepts 

One last word of advice - Its an easy exam if you are focussed , determined and have loads of concentration.

Just keep your concepts clear , and read the PMBok religiously , and you will surely append 'PMP' in your emal signature .

Cheers ,

N