I started this venture as a New Years Resolution on December 31st 2915. I used the PMPrepCast, PMBOK, and the "Rita M" book as my primary tools for study. I took my time in prepping my application. I contacted my prior colleagues regarding my work experience and got a verbal "OK", as well as mentioning that I may need to get written verification in writing if I should get audited.
My application was accepted with no audit the end of January. I waited about 10 days or so, and based on my Schedule I picked 4/18/2016 as my test date. From February to the test date, I read each book twice cover to cover in parallel. I did each of the "Rita" activities as the book suggested. I started using the PMP Exam Simulator later than I had hoped, as I needed to take a little break from studying, study fatigue was setting in for me. I took a lot of quizzes, some times daily, with 25 questions at a time. I reviewed every question post quiz to understand the questioning technique as well as the answer. I consistently averaged 70% on the quizzes.
I used YouTube to search for some videos on topics such as ITTO's, EVM, Critical Path and PMP Dump Sheet examples. I found one video that shared a method on how to memorize the 47 processes. Within an hour after watching the video I had that to a science. I also found others explanations of concepts to be informative some of their own personal analogies filled in the gaps for me.
Two weeks ago, I took my first Full exam on the simulator scoring a 72%. I reviewed each question, and reviewed the the domains that I needed too based on the results. Two days before the test I took the ITTO exam and scored a 79%. Again I reviewed the questions and the content accordingly. The day before the test. I reviewed my previous exam questions, scanned all of the processes in the PMBOK, including ITTO's, and practiced my dump sheet. I stopped all studying at 5:00 p.m.
I called the test center three days before the test to confirm location, as well as asking them, what materials I would get at test time. They provided 2 non mechanical pencils, a 4 page double sided note booklet, 8 1/2 X 11, totaling 8 blank, non lined, pages. You also had the option to request a calculator or use the "windows" version of the calculator within the PMP test. I received a reminder call from Prometrics on two days prior to confirm address and check in time. It was recommended I arrive early, as they were totally booked that day.
Test Day April 18
I arrived shortly after 7:00 a.m. I was the 3rd person to start the sign in process. Shortly before 8:00 my name was called, and I got what I called the TSA check, with a wand and a visual check to make sure I had nothing with me that I was not supposed to have. I was given my pencils, and paper, and had to ask for the calculator. You have to request the calculator, they just do not give it to you. I was then walked to my seat. I took 10 minutes to do my dump sheet. I had 5 minutes to run through the tutorial. Take the time to do that as there are a few little features you need to be aware which differ slightly from the Exam simulator.
I did my first pass of the test marking 4 questions for review, I took a quick break before I reviewed my questions. The break time eats away time from the clock. You have to be re screened before you can go back into the test room. So plan for this if you plan on taking a break. I reviewed my questions and submitted the exam. I took the 5 minute survey, and still had to wait like 30 seconds for the results to appear, and I Passed!
Post Test Comments
- You know yourself better than anyone else so create a preparation plan that works for you! How I prepared may not work for you, and how you prepare may not work for me. Although my above outline may not look like much, but I did put in just shy of 3.5 months of prep time, averaging 15 + hours a week.
- This has been repeated before, and after you sit for the "official" exam you will understand, but don't just memorize the material understand it. Especially the ITTO flows withing the 47 processes
- Take practice timed quizzes and Exams to get a rhythm of answering the questions. I found myself rushing and misreading the most simplest of questions. I learned to slow it down a little.
- Do take time to be normal and rest before the exam, be rested an clear headed for the exam.
Good Luck to all!
