This article is part of the “Career Advice” series.
Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is one of the most sought-after credentials by project managers. However, to get the certification, one has to pass the PMP certification exam first. Since PMP is a high-level certification; one can expect it to be quite tough. Also, many candidates take the exam unprepared. One important tip on how to pass PMP certification exam is to avoid the seven most common PMP exam mistakes that many candidates committed, resulting in their failure. Here are these mistakes and how to avoid them.
- No study plan
Just because one has been a project manager for many years does not mean that you can pass the PMP certification exam easily. Try practicing the test with a full-length exam to see if you can finish answering all within the time limit. The result of the practice test will help you identify your strengths and weakness in terms of the topics covered. You can spend more time studying for the test items that you find difficult so that you will be able to answer them during the exam.
- Too much confidence
Many test-takers lack confidence. Having too much of it can make you disregard studying and having too little of it can make you nervous during the exam. Reading the PMBOK and familiarizing yourself with the processes, rules, and formula will give you enough confidence to take the exam without becoming too nervous. This can help you pass the exam.
- Using free questions for review
Study materials for the PMP certification exam, as well as the practice tests, can cost you. However, getting a practice test and review materials from reputable online certification training course agencies such as SPOTO will help you a lot. Free materials sometimes use outdated questions and situations. Some of them might not be relevant anymore. Get your study materials from SPOTO for 100% valid, real, and updated practice tests and review materials.
- Answering short tests
The PMP certification exam has a time limit of four hours. To get used to the time limit, practice using full-length test materials that are as long as the real exam. You will learn to adjust your pace and use some techniques that will let you answer all the items within four hours.
- Taking for granted understanding inputs, tools, techniques, and outputs
Some test-takers think that being able to identify the ITTOs can make them pass the exam. However, you might not be asked to identify them The PMP exam is situational. You have to apply what you have learned to solve an issue in a given situation. This requires analytical skills, not just memorizing and identifying things.
- Disregarding formulas
The PMP exam includes questions that must be answered using formulas that are relevant to management such as cost variance, schedule variance, cost performance index to name a few. It will be impossible to give answers to questions if you do not know the formula.
- Being unprepared
Preparation is the key to success. Preparedness for the PMP exam includes knowing exactly where to take the exam and what time it will start. Losing your way on the day of the exam and arriving late can add to your anxiety and nervousness.
Knowing how to pass the PMP certification exam will help you prepare well and succeed.
