u/PDUnow

After spending a lot of time reading about candidates experiences/watching people pass and fail & study the exam, I think I’d approach Day 1 much differently if I did it over again.

Here’s what I’d do (so if you’re on day 1, hopefully this can help):

1. Stop trying to memorize PMBOK.
   The PMP exam is not a memorization exam. It’s a decision-making exam.

2 Get the 35 contact hours done first.
Don’t try to master everything during the course. Focus on building a foundation.

3 Start practice questions much earlier.
Even if you’re getting most of them wrong, they teach you how PMI thinks.

4. Review every incorrect answer.
   The real learning happens after the question- not during it.

5. Don’t chase resources.
   I’ve seen people use 10+ books, YouTube channels, and courses. I’d rather know one or two resources really well than constantly jump to something new.

If you’re already PMP certified, what would you add to this list?

If you’re currently studying, what advice do you wish someone had given you on Day 1?

The biggest mistake I see with PMP prep is treating it like a memorization exam.

It’s not.

PMP questions are designed so that 2 answers often feel “pretty good.” The real skill is learning PMI decision-making.

When I teach students, I have them ask:
Is this proactive or reactive?
Does this involve collaboration before escalation?
Are we solving root cause or symptoms?

That framework alone eliminates a surprising number of wrong answers.

What part of PMP prep has been hardest for you so far?
Is it:
• understanding the mindset
• scoring well on practice exams
• or just finding time to study?