For those of you looking for a career in management, the options are countless. PMP is one of the up and coming career choices in this field, with international recognition and high demand for skilled professionals.
What Is PMP?
PMP or Project Management Professional is a globally recognized title offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). The exam conducted is based on PMI’s Project Management Body Of Knowledge (PMBOK).
The PMP Certification has been ranked among the top ten IT certifications in the last decade. The main motive of the certification is to improve the rate of success on projects corresponding to various verticals by applying a standard set of principles prescribed by the PMI.
Who Can Apply?
This is a professional course that is applicable across all industries, and aspirants looking for the role of a senior project manager would benefit the most from taking it. If you are an IT professional, project manager, or a team lead, PMP certification will give you an advantage over the competition when it comes to bagging a job with this qualification under your belt.
A diploma or bachelor’s degree is a must to take up this exam, and the most important among the PMP requirements is experience in project management.
PMP Exam Scheme
PMI lays out the exam based on the PMP Exam Specification, and it consists of 5 main fields:
- Initiating the project
- Planning the project
- Executing the project
- Monitoring and controlling the project
- Closing the project
You will be required to answer 200 multiple-choice questions in this certification exam. 25 of these questions are placed randomly throughout the paper and only serve to test your levels of precision. So, the score is based on 175 of the questions you’ll answer.
The paper consists of questions that’ll make you rack your brain and thoroughly test all aspects of your skills in project management. The questions are based on formulae, situations, knowledge, techniques, and interpretations. So gear up for your best performance yet!
How To Prepare
Like most competitive exams, PMP requires intense preparation. Despite your previous knowledge in project management, you will require study aids while preparing. While some prefer enrolling in a course offered by a trusted institution, others might prefer self-study or study groups. Whichever method you choose, these are some of the study material that you can’t afford to miss out on.
- PMP Handbook
- PMP Sample Questions
- The latest edition of A Guide To The Project Management Body Of Knowledge (PMBOK)
- The latest PMP Exam Outline
- PMI Chapters offered by Registered Education Providers (R. E. P.s)
Apart from this you have many online study aids like PMP exam simulators, online PMP Exam Prep Workshops, and discussion forums where you can find expert advice on cracking the exam.
Keep yourself motivated throughout your preparation. Try to aim for a score of 85% to clear the exam. Ensure your research is up to date regarding both the exam itself, as well as the subject. Chalk out a plan on how you intend to cover the syllabus and set aside enough time for revision and re-revision. Make use of flashcards, paper or electronic, to make your preparation even more effective.
The PMP qualification does not last a lifetime and requires periodic renewal. So keep building your understanding of the subject for a smoother journey.
Happy studying!
