Yes, it took me two attempts. But in fairness, I only had myself to blame. Here are a few things that helped me on my 2nd attempt, that made the difference:
- Finish all of the modules in the PrepCast
- Review the modules on estimating and costs several times
- Finish an entire exam prep book (ironically, I used 'How to Pass the PMP Exam on the First Try')
- Memorize those formulas: EVM, CV, CPI, SV, SPI, and write them down on the scratch paper as soon as your exam time starts
- During the exam, don't spend more than a minute or 2 on a question...mark it and move on. Use the crossout method for answers you know aren't correct. If guessing on the answer, or uncertain, mark it for review. Review all marked items at the end of the test.
- Finish 100 questions in the first 1-1.25 hours. Second 100 questions in 1-1.25 hours. Spend the remaining time finishing up items that you Marked for review. If time is left over, don't click "End Exam". Use that time to review at random your answers. I caught at least 4-5 items that were incorrect, using this method.