Pmp Exam Prep- The Balancing Act

The PMP is a serious exam, which requires serious preparation. Many getting ready to take the PMP are at a new level in their careers. Aside from the 10 to 20 hours a week of studying for the PMP, project managers in training are also juggling a full time job, their families, friends and other life obligations.

How to juggle it all and pass the PMP exam you ask? Well, were experts at helping project managers successfully prepare for and pass the PMP and we have some great ideas that can help you pass the PMP, keep your job, and not drive your family or yourself crazy in the process.

Set a Schedule and Stick To It!

At the beginning of your prep for the PMP, or even at any time during your studies, setting a schedule and sticking to it can offer you relief from your stress. Scheduling is an integrative part of project management, so theres no better time to start implementing a schedule than right now! At the beginning of each week, map out the day, time and place youll be studying that week and then follow through.

Watch What You EAT!

Seriously! What you eat can affect your stress levels, your concentration, and your motivation. Brain boosting diets can seriously impact your brains ability to retain knowledge, manage stress, and boost moods. Foods like soybeans (edamame), nuts, strawberries, broccoli, and fish rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, can improve memory and recall, boost problem-solving skills, and improve your brains overall learning ability. And yes- chocolate is on the list too- especially dark chocolate, which has been touted for improving the blood supply to the brain and in turn improving cognitive skills.

Study Groups

A great way many professionals prepare for the PMP is to form a study group. A group of 2-4 people (not more than 4!) is a great way to boost your learning potential. Find a group of people preparing to take the PMP and try to meet (virtually or in person) to go over a structured set of material. Each week, choose a section from the PMBOK and make it one persons responsibility to develop a plan of study for that week. This gives each person a chance to look differently at the material, gain a better understanding of it, and helps the rest of the group get a new perspective as well.

A note of caution- when preparing for the PMP, it can be overwhelming and many professionals will back out. Get a firm commitment on the amount of time and effort each individual can offer for the study group and encourage each other to keep up the pace. PMCAMPUS also offers some great PMP exam prep bundles for groups at discounted prices which can aid the study process and improve your group collaboration.

Find the right PMP Prep Course

One of the most difficult decisions PMITs make is choosing the right exam prep course that will compliment their learning style. There are literally hundreds of options to pick from when it comes to choosing your PMP Exam Prep course. Finding the one that best fits your schedule and your learning style is often a task in its own. PMCAMPUS offers many PMP exam prep courses and bundles, with a top of the line customer service team to walk you through choosing the one thats right for you.

Depending on your learning style, you may or may not be able to use some of these suggestions. Many people tailor these methods to meet their own study and prep needs. If youre looking for more suggestions, take a look at the PMCAMPUS PMP forum and meet other professionals preparing for the PMP.



Do you have some good ideas for helping to successfully prepare for the PMP? Wed love to hear them! Leave a comment!