What Is the PMP Exam? Everything You Need to Know to Pass

If you’re asking, “What is the PMP exam?” then you’re probably a project manager wanting to strengthen your skill set. The Project Management Institute (PMI) reports 10-year demand for project managers is growing faster than the demand for workers in other fields. This has created a talent gap that puts an experienced project manager in high demand.

But how do you stand out?

One of the best ways is through PMP certification.

In order to become a certified Project Management Professional, you must first pass the PMP exam. This four-hour exam is comprised of multiple-choice questions that test your knowledge of project management concepts and principles.

While the PMP certification exam covers a wide range of topics, most of the questions focus on four key areas. These areas highlight important project management training capabilities that separate average managers from star talent.

In this guide, we’ll go over what the PMP exam is, what topics it covers, and how you can best prepare for it.

What Is the PMP Exam?

The PMP exam is a test project managers must take to earn their Project Management Professional (PMP) credential. The test proves PMP holders can lead and manage projects for any organization and in any industry.

The PMP exam is administered by the Project Management Institute (PMI) and consists of 180 multiple-choice questions. Test takers have four hours to complete the exam.

Not just anyone can take the exam. PMP certification requirements include the following to be eligible to take the PMP exam:

• Candidates must have a four-year degree or equivalent
• PMP applicants must have at least three years of project management experience.
• Candidates must also complete 35 contact hours of project management education.

The PMP exam is computer-based. It’s offered throughout the year at various testing centers worldwide.

Why Get PMP Certified?

The Project Management Professional credential is the most important certification for project managers.

Why is this?

For one, it is recognized all over the world. This global recognition shows that project management personnel have the experience, education, and project management skills to lead projects in any city in any country.

Twenty-five million new project management-oriented managers are needed to meet global talent demands by 2030. Those who have not just a high school diploma or associate’s degree but an actual PMP certification will be leading the pack.

 Earning your PMP credential will help you:

• Stand out from other job candidates
• Negotiate a raise or promotion
• Network with other project management professionals
• Gain confidence in your abilities
• Make a difference in your organization

Another huge perk–you’ll make a lot more money.

Current stats show that the median salary for certified project professionals is 16% higher globally. In addition, PMI-certified managers in the US make 32% more than others in the field.

What’s on the PMP Exam?

One thing that project managers want to know before taking the PMP certification exam is what is going to be on it!

The PMP exam is comprised of both questions with multiple choices and tasks based on the Project Management Institute’s PMBOK Guide.

There are four sections to the PMP certification exam: Initiating, Planning, Executing, and Monitoring & Controlling. Each section has a different weighting, and the total number of questions asked will vary depending on the section.

The Initiating process group makes up 13% of the exam, Planning is 23%, Executing is 30%, and Monitoring & Controlling is 34%.

You must answer all questions within the allotted time for each section, and you cannot go back to previous sections once you’ve moved on. This is why PMP exam prep is so important.

You’ll need to score at least 61% overall to pass the exam. The passing score for each section is also different based on the weighting of that section.

If you don’t pass the exam, you can retake it after one month. You can retake the exam up to three times within a 12-month eligibility period.

You can take the exam at testing centers worldwide, or you can take the test online through a proctored service.

The PMP exam is not an easy test, but it is possible to pass with proper preparation. Many resources are available to help you study for the exam, including books, courses, study groups, and practice tests. For some test takers, it takes longer to become PMP certified if they don’t use prep courses.

If you’re serious about becoming a project manager, then passing the PMP exam on your first try is an essential step. You can achieve your goal and earn your PMP credential with the right preparation.

Let’s talk about the best steps for doing this.

How to Make Sure You Pass the PMP Exam

You’ve been studying for the PMP exam and feel pretty good about it. But you want to make absolutely sure that you pass, right? Here are a few tips to help you out:

1. Make sure you understand the format of the exam

There are multiple-choice questions, as well as essay questions. You need to be able to answer both types of questions to pass.

This is where PMI members are at an advantage since they have better access to online courses and other exam-focused study materials.

2. Study, study, study!

The more you know about the material, the better off you’ll be. Science-based study data from Pearson shows that to understand the material better, you should be taking practice tests during the studying process. Use all the resources available to you, including books, websites, study materials, and practice exams.

3. Get plenty of rest before the exam

You don’t want to be exhausted when taking such an important test.

And if you’re tempted to cram, remember this:

Research shows that sleep debt can cause memory problems, issues with mood, and poor decision-making. Try to set a sleep schedule since irregular sleep patterns can have the same adverse effects as not getting enough sleep.

4. Most importantly, don’t give up!

If you don’t pass the first time, keep studying and try again. Focus on increasing your chances with formal project management education and test prep.

Increase Your Chance of Passing

This brings us to some options.

If you’re looking for a little extra help to make sure you pass the PMP exam, look to some of our partners. Their comprehensive courses include everything you need to know, from the basics of project management to more specific information about the PMP exam itself.

With numerous practice questions and detailed answer explanations, you’ll be fully prepared to tackle anything that comes your way on test day.

You’ll also be less stressed since researchers from the University of North Carolina have found that students who used study guides not only scored higher but also experienced significantly less stress than their peers.

So why wait? Sign up today and start working towards your goal of becoming a certified project manager!

GO TO PMP EXAM PREP COURSES

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