Common questions that PMP(r), aspirants have is how to choose the correct answer on the PMP(r). We will be discussing the different types of PMP (r) questions and answers you will encounter on your exam, as well as 6 strategies that you can use to find the right answer.
There are 4 types of PMP(r), Questions and Answers you’ll see
Formula
Your PMP(r), exam will include math questions. This shouldn’t be a problem. The PMP(r), which includes questions and answers, is not difficult. A Windows-based calculator will also be provided. Unfortunately, you can’t bring or use your calculator. The good news is that formula questions don’t require any skills beyond addition, subtract, multiplication, or division. You should be able to prepare for this section with some practice.
Get the formula guide here.
Situational
PMI doesn’t want the PMP(r), exam to be a simple recollection or definition of facts and concepts. They included many situational questions in the PMP(r).
PMI’s goal for the PMP(r), exam is to make it as realistic as possible. They want to test PMP(r), aspirants who can put the theory in the PMBOK (r) into practice.
These situational questions can be very long and contain both relevant and irrelevant information. It is your task to sort through the information and identify the useful and non-useful information in order to arrive at the right answer.
Do as many practice exams before the actual exam as you can to ensure that you are prepared for these situationsal questions. PMI has a unique way of writing multiple-choice questions. Practice is the best preparation.
Knowledge
This section is the easiest. PMI wants you to test your knowledge of the PMBOK(r), and project management principles.
Knowledge questions are designed to test your understanding of terminology and definitions in project management. PMI wants you to be able to analyze facts and identify exceptions and use the tools and techniques in the right situations.
It is a good idea to review the inputs, tools, techniques, and outputs (ITTOs), of all 47 processes. Make sure you understand their meanings.
Not necessary to memorize all 47 ITTOs, but you will need to know their definitions.
Interpretation
Interpretational questions are the last type of question you will see on your PMP(r). PMI wants you to be able to correctly interpret data and not just know the definitions.
What does it mean if they tell me that the earned value (EV), is higher than 0, for example? Is that good?
6 Strategies to Choose the Right Answer
Answer First
PMI tends give you a lengthy paragraph with both relevant and irrelevant information when answering situational PMP(r). questions. This is because you will need to distinguish between useful and ineffective information when managing projects in real life.
If you are asked a lengthy, complex situational question, it is important to read the entire answer before you respond. Next, read the last sentence. You will often know the correct answer by simply reading the last sentence. If you are still unsure, read the entire question again.
Absolutes
Absolutes like “all”, “everything”, “everytime,” “always,” and “never,” are dangerous for project managers. Projects are dynamic and fluid. There’s always an exception to the general rule.
It is very likely that you are not correct if you see absolutes on your PMP(r).
Unfamiliar
If you don’t recognize the answer to a question in the PMBOK(r), it is likely that it is not the right one.
PMI may throw in jargons to confuse you during the PMP(r).
Calculate First
If you see a math question on an exam, but don’t look at the answers, calculate the answer first.