APM PMQ Study Guide

The APM PMQ exam is a challenging exam that deeply tests an aspirant's knowledge of Project Management. It is rigorous, but you can pass the exam with proper preparation. Using an APM PMQ Study Guide can help you better prepare for it.

According to a APM Qualifications Feedback Survey conducted by Parallel Project Training, 95 per cent of people believe that an APM qualification will add more value to their career. In this blog, you will learn the APM PMQ exam structure, how to create a study plan and how to prepare for the exam. Overall, this blog is the ultimate Study Guide to Passing the APM PMQ exam.   

Table of Contents  

1) Understanding the exam structure 

2) How to create a Study plan?  

3) Study materials for preparation  

4) How to prepare for the exam?  

5) Conclusion  

Understanding the exam structure 

The APM PMQ Exam is a three-hour closed-book exam. It was formerly known as the APMP exam. The exam is built around a scenario given to the applicants before it begins. Candidates are asked to use their knowledge and experience to respond to questions based on the scenario, which details a project.   

APM PMQ exam question types

There are ten essay questions in the APM PMQ exam, each worth 50 points. The objectives of the questions are to gauge the candidate's knowledge and comprehension of project management concepts, procedures, and methods. How the questions are formulated forces candidates to use their expertise in the given circumstances.   

Pass Criteria  

The APM PMQ exam requires a score of 275 out of 500 (55%). The final grade is the average of the two scores obtained by the exam's two independent scorers. Candidates receive a distinction if they score 400 or higher (80%). Candidates who receive a score of 275 to 399 (55%–79%) are considered to have passed. Candidates receive a failing grade if their score is lower than 275 (less than 55%).



 

How to create a Study plan?  

APM PMQ is one of the most valued Project Management qualifications. An Effective Study plan smoothens your exam preparation in an efficient and organised way. Moreover, it helps you stay focused and save a lot of time. Listed below are the steps to create an effective Study plan:  

Step 1: Create goals and targets  

Establish clear goals on how you are planning to approach the exam and plan out your time accordingly.   

Step 2: Find out your areas of improvement  

Discover your potential strengths, figure out your weaknesses early on, and try to improve on them. 

Step 3: Study schedule  

Plan and create a study schedule that allocates dedicated time for Studying all the important topics.  

Step 4: Study materials  

Find study materials online and offline and take advantage of all the free resources available. These resources could be anything from study materials, guides, mock exams, etc. 

Step 5: Track your progress  

Check your progress regularly, make changes to your plan if necessary, and ensure you stay on course to meet your goals. 

Study materials for preparation

With the power of the internet, you can access various resources effortlessly. However, not all of them can guide you properly. You need to find high-quality study materials that are revered by experts. Some of the study materials that you can use to prepare for the exam are listed below:   

a) APM Body of Knowledge 7th edition: This APM PMQ Study Guide is highly regarded and is considered an essential resource for Project Management. Mastering the key concepts and methodologies listed in this book will help your chances of passing the exam.   

b) PMBOK Guide: The PMI’s Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK) is another excellent resource that improves foundational knowledge. PMBOK is often considered the bible for Project Management, and the seventh edition is the latest, released in August 2021. It stresses the importance of using new tools and techniques. 

c) Mock exams: Mock exams are beneficial for exam preparation as they can not only help you find areas for improvement but also helps overcome exam-related stress. Moreover, mock exams help you overcome exam-related anxiety as it simulates that environment, preparing you both technically and mentally. 

d) Online Forums and Study Groups: Online forums and discussion groups can help you find like-minded individuals who are also preparing for the APM PMQ exam. Some people may find studying in groups helpful, so these forums are beneficial for them. Apart from this, it allows you to connect with experts from the industry.   

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How to prepare for the exam?  

Preparation is the key to success, which is also true regarding exams. You can pass the exam and dominate the score sheet if you are well prepared.   

a) Begin early: Start early and spend a lot of time preparing for the test. It is advised that you start studying at least three to six months before the exam.   

b) Understand the format: Learn about the exam's structure, the kinds of questions that will be asked, and the time limit. When you thoroughly understand the exam format, you can focus on how much time you want to spend on each question.   

c) Try out active learning: For some people, memorising and retaining information by reading may not work. They can try active learning methods like practising with flashcards, taking notes and creating short summaries. You can also practice on previous exam questions to understand the exam's structure.   

d) Focus on key concepts: Concentrate on learning and understanding the fundamentals of project management. That includes scheduling and planning projects, managing risks, maintaining high-quality standards, setting and sticking to budgets, and developing effective leadership and communication techniques.   

e) Practise regularly: Test your knowledge of the content by practising answering essay questions to become accustomed to the exam's structure.   

f) Stay positive: Exam preparation can be stressful as it is a mentally demanding process. So, try to stay positive and improve your confidence by setting realistic and easy-to-achieve goals.  

Signup for the APM PMQ course and transform yourself into a skilled and certified project management professional! 

Conclusion      

The APM PMQ is a challenging exam, but passing it is relatively easy with the right preparation. Using this APM PMQ Study Guide, you can pass the exam with flying colours. Wishing you good luck on your APM PMQ exam!  

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