How to Create a PMP Study Schedule That Works for Busy Professionals?

Rajiv, a full-time IT manager and father of two, chose to pursue the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification. However, he had a hard time finding time to study because his schedule was so full.

He was determined, so he studied for the exam as if it were a project, with due dates, goals, and risk assessments. Rajiv passed the PMI PMP certification exam on the first try by putting in just 1.5 hours a day during the week and a few hours on the weekends.

What's his secret? A well-organized study schedule that fits his busy schedule.

Professionals like Rajiv need to plan ahead in order to balance work, family, and school. Here's how to make a PMP training and certification exam study plan that works with a busy schedule.

Learn About the Commitment

The PMP training and certification exam is hard; between 61% and 70% of people who take it pass. Candidates usually spend 150 to 200 hours preparing over the course of 2 to 5 months. This means that busy workers need to dedicate approximately 10–15 hours a week to studying.

• Think of studying as a task: Prepare for the PMP exam with the same discipline you would use to run a project.
• Explain the scope: Find the areas of information and steps that are described in the PMBOK® Guide.
• Mark your progress: Focus on one area of knowledge at a time as you break up the course outline into weekly goals.
• Divide up the resources: Figure out how much time you have each day to study, taking into account work and personal obligations.
• Check on Progress: Use quizzes to check your knowledge on a regular basis, and if you need to, change your plan.

Make the Most of Your Study Time.

• Use short intervals to get the most out of your work: You can be busy for as little as 30 minutes during your lunch break or on your way to work.
• Using technology to help: You can learn on the go with mobile apps and online tools.
• Active learning should be used: Use flashcards, practice questions, and discussion boards to help you remember what you've learned.

Pick Out Good Study Materials

Pick out tools that work with the way you learn:

• Full-length guides: In-depth answers can be found in books like Rita Mulcahy's PMP Exam Prep.
• Take Online Courses: Structured programs, such as Project Management Professional courses, provide options and cover all areas of the test.
• Tests of Practice: Coursera PMP Simulators help you get used to the style and time limits of the real test.

Prioritize Well-being

Keeping your balance is very important:

• Schedule breaks: Regular breaks keep you from getting burned out and help you remember things.
• Stay Active: Doing physical activities can give you more energy and help you concentrate.
• Get help: Join study groups or talk to a coach to get motivated and get advice.

Example Study Plan for 8 Weeks

• Weeks 1 and 2: Starting processes and making plans
• Weeks 3 and 4: Putting processes into action and keeping an eye on them
• Week 5: Ending Procedures and Duty as a Professional
• Week 6: Go over textbooks and practice tests
• Week 7: Figure out what's weak and fix it.
• Week 8: Final Review and Test of Exam Readiness

In conclusion

Preparing for the PMI PMP certification exam while also working full-time is hard, but it is possible. You can make it through this journey smoothly if you treat your study plan like a project, make the most of the time you have, and take care of your health.

Are you ready to start this journey and move up in your project management career?