Becoming a Project Management Professional (PMP) was a significant milestone in my career. The journey to obtaining the PMP certification was both challenging and rewarding, and I would like to share my experience with aspiring project managers considering this remarkable path. In this blog post, I will walk you through the steps, tips, and resources I used to prepare for and conquer the PMP exam. Let’s dive into my PMP journey!

Meet Me in a Few Words

Hello, my name is Shafayetul Islam Pavel, and I am thrilled to connect with fellow aspiring project managers and creative enthusiasts! As a Visionary UI/UX and Product Designer, Design Operations Manager, and Creator of cssanimation.io and scrollyJS, I am dedicated to pushing the boundaries of design innovation. My passion lies in #uiuxdesign, #productdesign, #webanimation, #careerdevelopment, #leadership and #projectmanagement.

Today, I am excited to take you on a journey through my path to becoming a Project Management Professional (PMP), all while embracing the role of Creative Development Manager at SEBPO. Let’s dive into this transformative experience together!

You can find me on LinkedIn at LinkedIn Profile

Certifications:

• Project Management Professional (PMP®): PMP Certification
• PRINCE2®: PRINCE2 Certification
• Microsoft Certified Professional: MCPS Certification

If you have any queries, I am more than happy to help. Please review the PMP certification FAQ here OR leave your queries in the comment section. I promise to attend to them asap.

PMP Certification Exam Report of Shafayetul Islam Pavel

Let’s dive into this transformative experience together!

What is the PMP Certification?

The PMP (Project Management Professional) certification is a globally recognized and prestigious credential awarded by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is one of the most sought-after certifications for project managers worldwide. PMP certification validates a professional’s expertise in project management and demonstrates their ability to lead and manage projects effectively.

To earn the PMP certification, candidates must meet specific educational and experience requirements and pass a rigorous exam. The exam assesses their knowledge in project management areas such as project initiation, planning, execution, monitoring and controlling, and project closing. It also tests their proficiency in professional and social responsibility.

Holding a PMP certification showcases an individual’s dedication to their profession, knowledge of best practices, and commitment to delivering successful projects. It opens up various career opportunities and enhances the credibility of project managers in the eyes of employers and clients.

PMP Certification Requirements

To earn the PMP (Project Management Professional) certification, candidates must meet certain eligibility requirements set by the Project Management Institute (PMI). These requirements include a combination of education and project management experience. Here are the general PMP certification requirements:

1. Education:
   • A four-year degree (bachelor’s degree) or global equivalent: Candidates must have a four-year degree from an accredited institution.
   OR
   • Secondary degree (high school diploma, associate’s degree, or global equivalent): Candidates must have a secondary degree along with additional project management education. This additional education requirement includes 35 contact hours of formal project management education from a recognized training provider.
2. Project Management Experience:
   • Candidates with a four-year degree must have at least 3 years (36 months) of non-overlapping project management experience, during which at least 4,500 hours were spent leading and directing projects.
   OR
   • Candidates with a secondary degree must have at least 5 years (60 months) of non-overlapping project management experience, during which at least 7,500 hours were spent leading and directing projects.

It’s essential for candidates to carefully review and understand the specific eligibility criteria and application process outlined by PMI before applying for the PMP certification. Meeting these requirements demonstrates a candidate’s dedication to project management and qualifies them to take the PMP examination.

PMP Exam Cost

As of my knowledge cutoff in August 2023, the cost of the PMP (Project Management Professional) exam varies depending on your PMI membership status and location. Here are the approximate costs:

A PMI membership costs $129 per year, with a one-time $10 application fee.

The exam fee is $405 for PMI members and $555 for non-members. Therefore, the exam cost can be slightly cheaper with a membership.

However, the exam cost is not the only expense that you have to consider for getting the PMP certification. You also have to pay for the training courses, study materials, and renewal fees.

The training courses can cost anywhere from $200 to $2500, depending on the format, duration, and provider.

The study materials can cost around $100 to $300, depending on the quality and quantity.

The renewal fee is $60 for PMI members and $150 for non-members every three years.

Therefore, the total cost of PMP certification can vary from $900 to $3000, depending on your choices and preferences. You can reduce the cost by choosing online training courses, using free or low-cost study materials, and becoming a PMI member. However, you should also consider the value and quality of the training and materials you use, as they can affect your exam preparation and success.

Please note that these fees are subject to change, and it is recommended to visit the official Project Management Institute (PMI) website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on exam costs and any discounts or promotions they may offer.

Additionally, keep in mind that the PMP exam fee is just one component of the overall cost of obtaining the PMP certification. There may be additional expenses related to PMP exam preparation.

Benefits of PMP Certification

The PMP certification offers numerous benefits to professionals seeking to advance their careers in project management. Here are some of the key advantages:

1. Credibility and Recognition: The PMP certification is globally recognized and respected, showcasing your expertise and commitment to best practices in project management.
2. Career Advancement: PMP certification can open doors to higher-level positions, increased responsibilities, and better job opportunities.
3. Higher Earning Potential: PMP-certified professionals often earn higher salaries compared to their non-certified counterparts.
4. Expanded Network: Joining a vast community of PMP-certified professionals allows you to connect with like-minded individuals, share knowledge, and access valuable resources.
5. Enhanced Project Management Skills: Preparing for the PMP exam equips you with comprehensive project management knowledge, tools, and techniques to excel in your role.
6. Improved Project Success Rate: Applying PMP principles in your projects enhances efficiency, reduces risks, and increases the likelihood of project success.
7. Global Job Mobility: The PMP certification is recognized worldwide, allowing you to pursue international career opportunities.
8. Organizational Recognition: Employers value PMP-certified professionals for their ability to drive projects effectively, leading to increased confidence from employers and clients.
9. Professional Growth: Continuing education and earning PMP PDUs (Professional Development Units) help you stay up-to-date with industry trends and demonstrate your commitment to ongoing learning.
10. Competitive Edge: PMP certification sets you apart from other project managers, making you a preferred candidate for project management roles.

Overall, the PMP certification is a powerful asset that empowers professionals with the skills, recognition, and opportunities to thrive in the competitive landscape of project management. #PMP #ProjectManagement #CareerAdvancement #ProfessionalDevelopment #CertificationBenefits

How to get your PMP Certification

To obtain your PMP (Project Management Professional) certification, follow these steps:

1. Confirm you’re Eligible: Ensure you meet the eligibility requirements set by the Project Management Institute (PMI). Typically, you need either a four-year degree (bachelor’s or equivalent) with 36 months of project management experience and 35 hours of project management education, or a secondary diploma (high school or equivalent) with 60 months of project management experience and 35 hours of project management education.
2. PMI Membership (Optional): Consider becoming a PMI member as it offers benefits like discounted exam fees, access to resources, and networking opportunities.
3. PMP Exam Preparation: Familiarize yourself with the PMP Exam Content Outline and review the PMBOK® Guide (Project Management Body of Knowledge). Enroll in a PMP exam preparation course or use study materials from reputable providers to prepare thoroughly.
4. Practice Exams: Take practice exams to assess your readiness and identify areas where you may need more study.
5. Exam Application: Submit your PMP exam application online through the PMI website. The application includes details about your education, experience, and contact information.
6. Application Review and Payment: PMI will review your application, and upon approval, you will receive instructions for payment of the exam fee.
7. Schedule the Exam: Once you have paid the exam fee, schedule your PMP exam at a Prometric testing center near you or opt for online proctored testing.
8. Exam Day: Arrive at the testing center on the scheduled date with appropriate identification. The PMP exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions to be completed within four hours.
9. Receive the Results: After completing the exam, you will receive a preliminary score report on the screen. Official results will be available within a few days through your PMI account.
10. Maintain Certification: To maintain your PMP certification, earn 60 Professional Development Units (PDUs) every three years through continuing education, professional activities, and volunteering in the project management field.

Remember, the process may change, so always check the official PMI website for the most up-to-date information and guidelines. Good luck with your PMP journey!

What’s on the PMP Exam?

The PMP (Project Management Professional) exam is designed to assess your knowledge and understanding of project management principles, processes, and best practices. The exam content is based on the PMP Exam Content Outline provided by the Project Management Institute (PMI). As of my last knowledge update in August 2023, the PMP exam consists of the following domains and their respective percentage of questions:

1. People (42%): This domain focuses on the skills and activities required to lead and manage project teams effectively. It includes topics such as team building, conflict resolution, communication, and stakeholder management.
2. Process (50%): The process domain covers the project management processes and activities, including project planning, execution, monitoring, and control. It includes areas like scope management, time management, cost management, quality management, risk management, procurement management, and more.
3. Business Environment (8%): This domain examines the broader organizational and external factors that influence project management decisions, such as legal and regulatory requirements, cultural and social factors, and market conditions.

The PMP exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions, with 25 of them considered pre-test questions that do not affect your final score. You will have 4 hours to complete the exam. The passing score and specific question distribution within each domain may vary based on PMI’s periodic updates to the PMP Exam Content Outline.

As the PMP exam content may evolve, I recommend checking the official PMI website or contacting PMI directly for the most current and accurate information about the PMP exam.

What are Some Tips for Passing the Exam?

Passing the PMP (Project Management Professional) exam requires thorough preparation and a focused approach. Here are some tips to help you succeed:

1. Understand the Exam Format: Familiarize yourself with the exam format, question types, and time constraints. Practice with sample questions to get a sense of the level of difficulty and the wording of questions.
2. Create a Study Plan: Develop a structured study plan that covers all the domains and knowledge areas outlined in the PMP Exam Content Outline. Allocate sufficient time for each topic and set realistic milestones.
3. Use Official Study Materials: Utilize official PMP study materials provided by the Project Management Institute (PMI). The PMBOK Guide (Project Management Body of Knowledge) is a primary reference and is essential for your preparation.
4. Know the PMBOK Guide: The PMBOK Guide is the main reference for the PMP exam. It covers the project management processes, knowledge areas, and best practices. You should read and understand the PMBOK Guide thoroughly and review it frequently before the exam
5. Join a PMP Exam Prep Course: Consider enrolling in a PMP exam preparation course or workshop. Such courses provide in-depth coverage of exam topics and offer valuable insights from experienced instructors.
6. Practice with Mock Exams: Take multiple mock exams to assess your readiness and identify areas that need improvement. Mock exams simulate the actual test environment and help build your confidence.
7. Learn PMP Terminology: Familiarize yourself with PMP-specific terminology and definitions. Understand how terms are used in various project scenarios.
8. Apply PMBOK Concepts: Relate PMBOK concepts to real-life project situations you’ve encountered in your professional experience. This will help you understand the practical application of project management principles.
9. Manage Time Effectively: During the exam, manage your time wisely. If you encounter challenging questions, mark them for review and move on. Answer the easier questions first to ensure you address all questions within the allotted time.
10. Stay Calm and Confident: On the day of the exam, stay relaxed and focused. Trust your preparation and problem-solving abilities. Avoid last-minute cramming, as it may increase stress.
11. Write practice tests: Practice tests are simulations of the real exam. They help you familiarize yourself with the exam format, difficulty, and time pressure. You should write at least two or three full-length practice tests.
12. Read Questions Carefully: Pay close attention to the wording of each question. Analyze what the question is asking for and select the most appropriate answer.

Remember that passing the PMP exam requires dedicated effort and commitment. Give yourself enough time to study and practice, and don’t hesitate to seek support from fellow professionals or PMP study groups. Good luck on your PMP journey!

Top-Rated Online Courses for Success

There are several reputable online courses designed to help you prepare for the PMP exam. Here are some popular ones:

• Project Management Institute (PMI) Official PMP Exam Prep Course: PMI offers its own official PMP Exam Prep Course, which covers all the domains and knowledge areas outlined in the PMP Exam Content Outline. It is designed to align with the PMBOK Guide and provides comprehensive exam preparation.
• Professional Certificate – Google Project Management: Gain an immersive understanding of the practices and skills needed to succeed in an entry-level project management role
• Udemy Course – PMP Exam Prep Seminar – Complete Exam Coverage with 35 PDUs” by Joseph Phillips: This highly-rated course on Udemy provides in-depth coverage of PMP concepts, practice exams, and tips for passing the exam. Joseph Phillips, a PMP-certified instructor, leads the course.
• LinkedIn Learning – Project Management Simplified by Chris Croft: This course on LinkedIn Learning offers a structured approach to PMP exam preparation, with practical examples and practice quizzes.
• Simplilearn – PMP+ bundle: will take care of that by providing you with the option of taking your pick from 6 courses which are Project Management, Agile Scrum Master, Implementing a PMO, Microsoft® Project 2019, Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, PMI-RMP, and PMI-PgMP®.
• Master of Project Academy – PMP® Certification Training – 35 Contact Hours Online PMP Training: This online course provides 35 hours of project management education, practice questions, and PMP exam simulation to help you pass the exam with confidence.
• PM PrepCast – Prepare to Pass Your PMP: PM PrepCast offers an exam prep course hosted by Cornelius Fichtner, a renowned PMP trainer. The course includes video lessons, quizzes, and sample exams.

Before enrolling in any course, make sure to read reviews and check if the course aligns with your learning style and schedule. Additionally, consider the course’s duration, the expertise of the instructors, and the availability of practice exams and resources.

Choose the one that best suits your needs and learning preferences. Good luck with your PMP exam preparation!

Top PMP Exam Preparation YouTube Channels

We have compiled a list of YouTube channels that offer helpful resources and content to aid in your preparation for the PMP exam.

• PM PrepCast: This channel offers various PMP exam prep videos, study tips, and strategies presented by Cornelius Fichtner, a renowned PMP trainer.
• Ricardo Vargas: Ricardo Vargas is a well-known project management expert. His channel features PMP exam tips, explanations of project management concepts, and other related content.
• Aileen Ellis: Aileen is a PMP exam prep expert and trainer. Her YouTube channel covers PMP exam tips, mock questions, and study techniques.
• Praizion: This channel provides PMP exam tutorials, study guides, and helpful tips to boost your exam preparation.
• Ricardo Vargas: Ricardo offers PMP exam tips, formulas, and explanations of critical project management concepts.
• PMPwithRay: Ray provides PMP exam-related videos, including sample questions and discussions of PMP exam topics.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, achieving the prestigious PMP certification is an incredible accomplishment for any aspiring project manager. This certification not only enhances your credibility and professional standing but also equips you with invaluable skills and knowledge to excel in the dynamic field of project management.

Throughout this blog post, we have delved into the comprehensive process of obtaining the PMP certification, starting from understanding the certification requirements to preparing for and acing the PMP exam.

By meeting the PMP certification requirements, which include a combination of education, project management experience, and formal training, you set the foundation for your journey. The recommended online courses, such as the “PMP Exam Prep Seminar” on Udemy, play a crucial role in helping you master the key concepts, tools, and techniques required to pass the exam successfully.

As you embark on your exam preparation, remember to follow some essential tips, including creating a study plan, dedicating consistent study time, taking practice exams, and seeking guidance from experienced PMP professionals. Embrace the mock tests, as they provide valuable insights into your progress and areas that may require further focus.

Throughout your preparation, consider engaging with reputable YouTube channels, such as “PM Exam Coach,” to access additional resources, tips, and insights from seasoned professionals who have successfully navigated the PMP exam.

With determination, discipline, and continuous learning, you can confidently approach the PMP exam, knowing that you have equipped yourself with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel. The PMP certification opens doors to a wide array of career opportunities, from higher-level project management roles to enhanced earning potential.

In conclusion, taking the step towards obtaining your PMP certification is a wise investment in your professional growth and success. Let your dedication and passion for project management drive you towards this prestigious accomplishment, and embrace the new opportunities and challenges that await you as a certified project management professional. The PMP journey may be challenging, but the rewards are well worth the effort. So, go ahead, seize the opportunity, and embark on your journey towards becoming a certified PMP!

Wish you certification success! 🎓🚀 #PMP #ProjectManagement #CertificationJourney #CareerGrowth #ProfessionalDevelopment

#PMPCertification #ProjectManagement #CareerGrowth #ProfessionalExcellence #ProjectManager #PMPExamPrep #CareerAdvancement #PMPJourney #PMPStudy #ProjectManagementCertification #SuccessInProjects #PMPExamTips #PMPExamPreparation #PMPTraining #ProjectLeadership #PMPExamGuide #CertificationGoals #ProjectSuccess #PMPRoadmap #PMPStudyTips #CareerDevelopment