TOPIC: Passed my PMP on Dec 28, First Try...So Happy

I am so happy that I passed my PMP exam today.
English is not my first language, If I can pass anyone else can too

I read Rita's book twice. It was very helpful and form my perspective about project management and processes.
Then next thing really was helpful, I had a project in mind, which it might sound funny but it is my dream project
Opening a Yoga studio
with keeping in mind my dream project, I went through the whole processes, imagining initiating, identifying stakeholder, gathering requirements then planning and...for 3 times
and in every step and process I asked myself, well what I need, what I am looking for what is my output...and during this process I discovered about the relationship of all the processes and knowledge areas!
This really helped me to understand the ITTO by heart and not memorized it.

I practiced with simulator, but in mock exams I was done in 3 hours and usually my problems were not readying the questions well and rushing to selecting the answer and just generally tired of the long exam

In PMP exam, I used up the whole 4 hours and just had 5 minutes to review, which was extremely stressful. I took about 5 minutes break to just go to the washroom and drink some water.
I worked on staying relax during the exam and reading the question over and over again.
I found exam was difficult, but not unreasonable difficult. I just found it was challenging my attention. some cases all the 4 choices were so close and it was misleading.
In simulator exams my results were between 71% to 79%. I know when I was more focused, I got better score.
And Today:
Initiation and Monitoring and control: Proficient
Rest of process groups: Moderately Proficient

One more thing: In my exam the didn't let me to use my pencil and paper during the 15 minutes review before the exam. I was going to just write down some formula for EV. When I asked why, the told me PMI rules have changed
Good luck in your exam and stay calm

Dear Nasiiiiim,

Congratulations on passing your PMP exam! Thank you for sharing your experience and, especially, a creative way of applying your own dream project to your preparations. Sounds like having some fun while studying.

As for the brain dump that the testing center did not allow you to do: unfortunately yes, the rules have been changed just recently. You can use your papers and pencil only after the timer started. I know it's frustrating, but those are the new rules that the prospective PMP aspirant will have to abide from now on.

Now it's time for you to celebrate your success and enjoy your new PMP certification!

Nasiiiiim,
Congratulations on your PMP success.

Cheers.