What You Need to Know About PMP Exam Changes and PMBOK 7

Across different industry verticals, the requirement for project management professionals (PMP) is rising, and it hasn't changed for a long time. However, technology is evolving the role of a project manager.

To become a PMP professional and join the ranks of the expanding call for premium talent, you must first pass the stringent test to get accredited. The latest edition of PMBOK Guide was released in August, and iCert Global is aligned as an ATP for this.

Those interested in knowing the contents and how different the Guide is from Edition 6 can buy the same from the official page of PMI.

The latest PMP exam changes were initially set to roll out in 2020 July; however, due to the uncertainty of the pandemic, the date was pushed to 2nd January 2021.

The PMI conducts rigorous research every three to five years to better understand how the profession evolves. Then, through comprehensive analysis, the PMI identifies what knowledge should be tested that best reflects PMP-certified managers' changing roles and responsibilities.

PMP Old Vs. PMP New: Significant Changes in PMP Exam

1. PMP Exam Format

Changes to the exam format might appear trivial, but understanding how the candidate's knowledge and experience will be evaluated is significant to the PMP exam prep.

The 2015 version of the PMP exam consisted of 200 MCQ-type questions that included five project management domains, and the duration was 4 hours. The questions were based on situational, knowledge, and formula. 

The 2021 PMP exam format contains 180 questions that include three domains of project management, and the duration is 230 minutes (approx 4 hours). The questions combine MCQ, matching, multiple responses, fill-in-the-blanks, and hotspot.

To test the agility of individuals precisely, the current PMP exam has more situational-based questions that consist of animations to best evaluate the soft skills and flexibility of participants.

While preparing for the PMP credential test, ensure that you read the Agile Practice Guide at least once to study for questions about hybrid and Agile methods.

2. PMP Exam Content Outline (ECO)

One of the most significant shifts a candidate can expect while preparing for the PMP credential exam is the Exam Content Outline (ECO).

Though both newer and older versions of the PMP test break the content down into different domains, the quantity and subject of these domains have significantly shifted over the past few years. 

While the 2015 exam's content focused on the particular phases of project management:

• Initiating (13%)
• Planning (24%)
• Executing (31%)
• Monitoring and controlling (25%)
• Closing (7%)

The 2021 PMP exam focuses on wider topics:

• People (42%)
• Process (50%)
• Business Environment (8%)

With so much new content on novel topics and approaches coming out with PMBOK Ed 7, it stands to reason that the current exam will need a broader in-depth study to cover everything.

There is a lot more to understand and excel; hence the exam will be more strenuous and challenging.

About 50% of the current PMP exam questions are based on Agile and hybrid approaches. This differs slightly from the previous examination mode, where the percentage of such questions is less than it used to be.

Study Tips for PMP Exam 2022

1. Read the PMBOK Guide

According to PMI, the PMBOK Guide is reference material to understand concepts and methodologies of project management; hence you will have to read the book at least once. However, reading the PMBOK Guide alone isn't sufficient for you to pass the test, as most of the questions aren't based on the Guide.

Therefore, once you have gone through the Guide, use other study resources to strengthen your acquired knowledge and build on that foundation.

2. Utilize Good Preparation Books

A PMP prep book is necessary when you take the PMP credential test. Some top-notch authors to look for are Andy Crow and Rita Mulcahy. With a prep material, you will get a few sample questions and solutions to assist you in studying, testing your potential to apply what you have learned to real-life situations, and marking yourself on the performance.

3. Participate in PMP Exam Preparation Workshops

When attending PMP exam preparation workshops, you usually got two options - classroom or online. However, seems like the pandemic is never-ending, and the currently available choice is online workshops.

Online options are affordable and allow you to decide the best-suited approach for your learning style.

4. Leverage Flashcards

Whether you choose electronic flashcards or personalized versions of the study aids, these are the best way to prepare for the PMP exam. Downloadable flashcards are available and can be printed or stored on your device. Test yourself on situations, vocab words, experiences, and what you require with this proven approach.

5. Connect with Discussion Forums and Study Groups

Try engaging in online study groups to offer answers, ask questions, and meet other professionals preparing for the PMP certification exam. Online discussion forums are also a suitable method of engaging with others, accessing relevant materials, and learning from others' experiences.

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If you're looking for PMP certification training, explore iCert Global's training courses to aid you prepare for the PMP credential test. Our courses are conducted by certified lecturers and they are designed to help you pass the exam on the first attempt.

Gain an in-depth understanding of project management and learn how to manage challenging ones with our Project Management Training course now.