How Hard Is The PMP Exam?

Is the PMP Exam Hard?

The PMP Exam was undoubtedly one of the toughest exams I have ever sat for. But it wasn't the content of the test that made it difficult, rather it's duration and the sheer number of questions made life very rough.

The test itself is 4 hours long and the questions take a fair bit of critical thinking. As such, you'll more than likely use nearly all 4 hours.

Unfortunately, the Project Management Institute does not publically disclose the passing score for the PMP. but if you are consistently scoring an 80% or better on your practice exams, it's a good indicator that you're ready for the exam.

Now, knowing the material does not guarantee a passing score. You'll need to employ some tried and true test-taking skills to walk out of that testing center PMP certified.

PMP Exam Tips

1. Use project management software.
2. Start studying early and create a study schedule.
3. Understand the PMP exam format and structure.
4. Get familiar with the PMBOK Guide.
5. Don't get too upset by the horror stories you read on the Internet.
6. Use multiple resources to study, including practice exams.
7. Take breaks to avoid burnout.
8. Read each question carefully and thoroughly.
9. Eliminate obviously wrong answer choices first.
10. Don't spend too much time on any one question.
11. Don't change your answers unless you are 25000000000% sure! Trust your gut.
12. Practice time management during the exam.
13. Memorize key formulas and concepts. Standard deviation, Critical Path calculations and more appeared often on my exam.
14. Understand the different types of project management approaches.
15. Review the PMP exam content outline. Use this to make your study guide.
16. Pay attention to the exam's instructions and guidelines.
17. Stay calm and focused during the exam.
18. Take care of yourself physically and mentally before the exam.
19. Get enough sleep the night before the exam.
20. Check with the testing center to ensure to have proper identification documents to sit for the exam.
21. Arrive early to the exam center.
22. Bring snacks and water to the exam.
23. Review your notes and study materials before the exam.
24. Use acronyms and mnemonics to help memorize information.
25. Understand the difference between a project and a program.
26. Know the different types of stakeholders and their roles. An organization chart
27. Understand the different types of project constraints.
28. Know the different types of project life cycles.
29. Understand the different types of project phases.
30. Know the different types of project management processes.
31. Understand the difference between a risk and an issue.
32. Know the different types of project risks.
33. Understand the different types of project communications.
34. Know the different types of project procurement.
35. Understand the different types of project quality management.
36. Know the different types of project cost management.
37. Understand the different types of project scope management.
38. Know the different types of project time management.
39. Believe in yourself!!!

Of all the tips and advice anyone will provide you, believing in yourself is the most valuable. Confidence is the key to success in nearly everything.

And there is no greater confidence builder than passing tons of practice exams. To help boost your testing confidence try out these free PMP practice questions.

1. Which of the following is NOT a component of the triple constraint? A. Scope B. Time C. Quality D. Team
2. Which of the following is NOT a type of organizational structure? A. Functional B. Matrix C. Hybrid D. Sequential
3. Which of the following is a tool or technique used in the Identify Stakeholders process? A. Stakeholder Analysis B. Work Breakdown Structure C. Change Control D. Communication Methods
4. Which of the following is NOT a tool or technique used in the Define Scope process? A. Product Analysis B. Expert Judgment C. Benchmarking D. Variance Analysis
5. Which of the following is NOT an input to the Develop Project Management Plan process? A. Project Charter B. Enterprise Environmental Factors C. Organizational Process Assets D. Work Performance Data
6. Which of the following is a tool or technique used in the Control Scope process? A. Change Control System B. Performance Reporting C. Resource Leveling D. Issue Log