Succeeding the PMP Exam: A Week-by-Week Study Plan

The Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is considered the gold standard in the industry. It validates your skills in leading projects and teams using best practices. However, the PMP exam is known for it's difficulty, with intensive study required to pass.

Based on my experience obtaining PMP certification, I wanted to share a proven week-by-week study plan. Follow this structure to absorb key concepts, retain knowledge, and confidently pass the PMP exam:

Week 1: Learn PMP Basics

• Read PMBOK Guide sections on exam structure, domains, questions styles
• Take a mock PMP test to determine knowledge gaps
• Research & select PMP exam simulator for practice questions

Week 2: Master PMP Processes

• Use PMBOK Guide to thoroughly understand 5 process groups across domains
• Create process flow charts for Initiating, Planning, Executing, Monitoring & Controlling, and Closing
• Draw process interactions and inputs/outputs for each

Week 3: Answer Sample Questions

• Work through 200-300 sample PMP questions from exam simulator
• Carefully review explanations, even for correct answers
• Understand why responses are right or wrong

Week 4: Take Practice Exams

• Complete 2 full-length, 200 question practice PMP tests
• Carefully analyze gaps in knowledge highlighted by wrong answers
• Review weak areas and create flashcards if needed

Week 5:Test All Knowledge Areas

• Take practice PMP tests focused on each domain - Scope, Schedule, Cost, Quality, Resource, Communication, Risk, Procurement and Stakeholder
• Identify lingering weak domains for focused review

Week 6: Final Exam Simulations

• Take 2-3 more full-length, timed practice exams of 200 questions
• Ensure scores are 80% or above in all Knowledge Areas and overall
• Address remaining knowledge gaps through review

Week 7: Scheduling and Taking the Exam

• Schedule PMP exam date giving 1 week buffer
• Review flashcards daily and skim PMBOK Guide
• Stay confident before exam! You've put in the work.

The key to PMP success is allowing enough time to methodically learn processes, test knowledge, and address gaps through practice questions and exams. This 7-week roadmap structures preparation in an actionable way.

I welcome any feedback or personal experiences using this approach when studying for the PMP certification. Please share suggestions in the comments on what worked or any tips for improvement! By learning together, we can boost our project management skills and advance our careers.