TOPIC: Any tips for a single dad of twins studying for the PMP exam?

Hey everyone! I’ve realized that earning my PMP certification might be the golden ticket for better opportunities (my colleague suggested so actuall). But here’s the catch—I’m also a single dad to adorable but very energetic 7-year-old twins. Between managing their school work and maintaining some semblance of sanity, finding the time and focus to study feels like trying to solve a Rubik's Cube in the dark.

For all you busy parents out there or folks who’ve tackled the PMP exam while balancing life, any advice or study strategies that worked for you? Should I study at night? In short bursts during the day? Are there tools or apps that make this easier?

Thanks in advance—this dad could use all the help he can get!

Huge respect to you!

I juggled family life while studying too, so here’s what worked for me (and might help you):

> Aiming for 25–30 minute study sprints during nap times, lunch breaks, or after the kids are down are great wasyt to sneak in some study time.

> Audio lessons like PMP podcasts or YouTube breakdowns are great while doing chores or driving. Passive study counts.

> And lastly, stick to a simple, repeatable schedule. Even 3–4 focused sessions a week can move the needle if you're consistent.

Don't forget to give yourself grace! You’re doing this for your kids and your future. That’s powerful motivation. You got this!

Hey there!

First off, major props to you—not just for aiming for the PMP, but for juggling it all with parenting twins (respect!). That’s a lot on your plate, and recognizing the challenge is already a big step.

I’m not a parent myself, but I’ve connected with a few who passed the PMP while balancing work, kids, and life. Here are some strategies I’ve seen work well:

Embrace short, focused sessions. Even 20–30 minutes during a quiet moment can add up fast, especially with mobile-friendly tools like the PMP PrepCast app or flashcard apps like Anki or Quizlet. Some folks even use audio lessons during chores or commutes.

Late nights or early mornings can work, but only if you still get rest. Mental exhaustion is absolute, and PMP questions test judgment under pressure.

Prioritize simulator time when you do get uninterrupted hours (e.g., when the kids are at school or asleep). It mimics exam conditions and sharpens time management.

Set a consistent, gentle schedule—like one topic per week or one simulator every weekend. Avoid cramming; think marathon, not sprint.

And lastly—be kind to yourself—progress over perfection. Even 15 minutes a day is progress.

You’re modeling something powerful for your kids: perseverance and a lifelong learning mindset. You've got this—one session, one question, one day at a time.

BR,

Markus

Best wishes to you Marielle! It is not easy, that's for sure.
But the suggestions already on here are excellent - I have nothing much else to add. Except to reinforce that the audio-lessons with their "on-the-go" format helped immensely when I was preparing for my exam (PMI-ACP, but still) while I was juggling work and life with my then-2-year-old.
Break things down into manageable modules - 20 minutes or more - don't even underestimate the power of a 5 minute session - there may be days when the 5-minute sessions might give you the motivation to complete the entire section after the kids go to bed
And be kind to yourself. There will be days when you can accomplish nothing at all, but the key is to keep moving. Even a little progress is great!

Hello Marielle,

I'm not sure what your schedule with your twins is, but I was able to do it with three children, although I'm not single. i am usually very busy myself though, even now.

As others have suggested, try listening to your lessons as often as you can. For your more structured learning, try for just 10-20 minutes a day.

Consistent study is more important than length of study.