Working individuals aiming to advance their careers by obtaining the PMP^® certification may find the Project Management Professional (PMP^®) exam difficult. Project initiation, planning, execution, monitoring and controlling, and closing are only a few of the tested topics and abilities linked to project management. A solid grasp of the PMP^® framework and actual project management expertise are prerequisites for answering the scenario-based exam questions. Approximately 60% of candidates taking the PMP^® test on their first try report it is challenging. 

In this article, we will be learning how to crack the PMP^® exam and what steps you can take to prepare yourself to compete with others. 

How Challenging Is The PMP^® Exam?

Some experts estimate that between 40 and 60 percent of first-time applicants will fail the PMP^® exam. Each exam question is assessed according to its level of difficulty. Consequently, you may still fail the exam even if you correctly answer all of the simple questions. Because the easy and hard questions are mixed up at random, it is challenging for the candidate to determine which questions are simple and which are complex.  

The exam is more confusing for PMP^® candidates because there is no set amount of questions you must correctly answer to pass. 180 multiple-choice questions must be answered in four hours. The questions are designed to assess both your knowledge of the topics and your aptitude for solving problems in everyday situations. While some questions need computations or graph drawing, others are situational and theoretical. 

The PMP^® test is regarded as being incredibly difficult. However, it's not as difficult as it looks for those with the proper support and diligent study. Over a million people have added the PMP^® certification to their resumes after overcoming their dread of the challenging PMP^®   exam.   

Tips To Prepare For PMP^® Exam

PMP^® is a prestigious certification that brings many opportunities and career upgrades. Thus, the exam needs rigorous preparation and guidance. So, let’s have a look at the best tips you can incorporate into your PMP^® exam preparation regime:

1. Learn to Use the PMBOK^® Guide

The PMBOK^® Guide forms a substantial part of the basis for the PMP^® test. Make the guide the road map for your study by utilizing this to your advantage. Make a weekly study plan to cover one PMBOK^® Guide knowledge domain. Before moving on to other study materials, thoroughly study the PMP^® exam format and start with the guide. Different study guides tend to repeat the same information and approach the same subject differently thus, this will help you comprehend each topic better.

2. Make Use of a Quality PMP^® Prep Guide

A decent PMP^® textbook is essential. Andy Crowe and Rita Mulcahy are two of the best writers for PMP^® aspirants. The PMP^® certification test is filled with challenging questions and answers. You'll need to dedicate much time and effort to studying for the test. A practical study guide will make it easier for you to prepare for the PMP^® exam.

3. Try out the PMP^® Exam Prep Workshops

If you want a classroom environment or require more one-on-one engagement, PMP^® exam prep seminars are an excellent option. They're also a terrific way to meet other prospective project managers in your area, besides networking opportunities provided by your PMI^® membership. The fact that these courses typically satisfy at least 35 contact hours needed to apply for the PMP^® test is another advantage of attending them.

4. Benefit from Online PMP^® Exam Simulators

PMP^®  simulators are online practice tests for the PMP^®. They put the candidate to the test using questions that are identical in structure to those on the PMP^® exam. They also try to imitate the exam setting to help you get used to the timing and pressure. They are an excellent means of determining your degree of readiness.

5. Recall Flash Cards

One reliable, portable, and affordable method of preparing for the PMP^® exam is by using paper or electronic flashcards. You can print or browse via downloadable flashcards on a computer, smartphone, or both. On your own, you can also make flashcards that will be quite useful for your preparation.

6. Take Part In Discussion Forums And Study Groups

You may get a lot of aid from study groups and discussion forums to prepare for the PMP^® test. By actively participating in study groups and discussion forums, you can reduce the time needed to prepare for the exam, assist others in passing the test, get your questions and concerns answered, and discover more about various helpful resources.

7. Take Good Care Of Your Time

Professionals in the workforce make up most of those taking the PMP^® exam. As such, you must balance your professional obligations and the time you need to study for the test. Time management is essential because the test necessitates extensive study and practicing problem-solving and test creation. You should only finish the most crucial assignments when studying. It might be a good idea to unwind while on vacation. 

8. Write Sample Exams

In addition to solving issues in practice, this concept can be extended to include writing complete simulated tests. You will undoubtedly perform poorly if you only approach the PMP^® exam as a knowledge test. Yes, there is a significant course load and a challenging exam. But don't undervalue the stamina required to remain for four hours and answer 200 difficult questions of varying degrees of difficulty at the same pace.

How Does Simpliaxis Make It Easy For You To Crack The PMP^® Exam?

As we have gone through the difficulty and some percentage of the candidates passing the exam, you must prepare by following the tips mentioned above. Adding a PMP^® certificate to your portfolio will help you get some extra skills and ability to crack the exam; enroll yourself in Simpliaxis PMP^® Certification training as their instructors can assist you in becoming an adept project manager in a variety of industry verticals thanks to their decades of experience. The course material has been carefully chosen to increase your professional options, marketability, and skill set to help you crack a PMP^® exam. 

Final Thoughts 

Working professionals who need to pass the PMP^® test for career advancement may find it difficult, but with the correct planning and study strategy, they may make it feasible. Adhering to these guidelines might improve your chances of passing the PMP^® exam and becoming a PMP^®certified project manager.