How Much Should You Really Study For The Pmp?

Studying for the PMP exam can seem like a daunting task; given the numerous courses and so-called boot camps offered for this purpose, one might assume that a rigorous schedule of studying day and night might be required in order to have any hope of passing the exam. So what is the truth of the matter?


Most experts estimate the time required to study for the exam to be between 40 and 60 hours. Of course, this can vary quite a bit depending on each individual test-taker, and what kind of test-taker you are is something that only you can answer. But ask yourself - how have you done on standardized tests in the past? Do you suffer from testing anxiety, i.e. will you require a good number of practice tests to help you overcome this? Are you familiar at all with the material? How well do you absorb and retain new material, i.e. will constant repetition be required? Do you study best over a short time frame or a longer one?


Once you've gauged reasonable answers to these questions, you can set up a study schedule that makes sense for your individual style of learning. Regardless of your experience level and comfort with these types of exams, you should make sure you set up a schedule that you will stick to, as the PMP exam has specific questions that require diligent study; hence, last minute cramming efforts will probably result in a wasted test fee!


As part of your study schedule, you should make sure to factor in both study time as well as time to take practice tests. You also need to make sure you understand the scoring of the exam, as this will help you strategize in such a way as to help you pass the exam by getting the necessary points.


From a psychological standpoint, don't shy away from the areas of the test that seem daunting to you, like the math-related questions. These have a trick to them, and once you master the general methodologies, this will go a long way towards establishing a high comfort level with the math questions. It's all a matter of understand the necessary approach to solving the PMP math problems - and them it's a matter of practice.


Also, make sure that in your study efforts you make use of whatever study aids available, such as study guides, index cards, audio tapes, and so on. These can help you reinforce what you've already learned, while also enabling you to study during free times, when you have a few minutes here or there.


Essentially, the exam is a matter of memorizing, practicing, and repeating that process until you're comfortable enough with the exam. Practicing via the practice tests - and then reviewing the areas that stumped you or that you had difficulty with - is key. Once you've mastered those exams, the next key thing is to relax as you take the test, and realize that you've done all the hard work needed to pass. PMCAMPUS offers a variety of resources for Project Managers studying for the PMP. Take a look at our 35 Hour PMP Exam Prep Course and see how PMCAMPUS takes a new approach to helping you successfully pass the PMP.


How many hours a week do you study for the PMP? Come tell us on our new PMP Exam Prep Network on LinkedIn