PMI · Study guide
PMP & CAPM Study Guide
A unified prep path through PMI's framework.
Certified Associate in Project Management
The credential that gets your foot in the door without years of project experience. Proves you know the fundamentals.
✨ No experience required
Unlike the PMP, you don't need months of leading projects. A high school diploma plus 23 contact hours of PM education (the prep course satisfies it) and you're eligible.
Eligibility
High school diploma (or equivalent) + 23 contact hours of project management education.
The exam
- • 150 multiple-choice questions
- • 3 hours
- • Online-proctored or test center
- • Covers PM fundamentals, predictive, agile, and business analysis
Prep tip
Focus on terminology and process groups. Most CAPM questions are definition-heavy — flashcards earn their keep here.
Project Management Professional
The credential that actually moves the needle on salary and title. The one recruiters filter for.
Eligibility
- • 4-year degree + 36 months leading projects + 35 contact hours, or
- • High school diploma + 60 months leading projects + 35 contact hours
The exam
- • 180 questions
- • 230 minutes
- • Blended predictive, agile, and hybrid content
- • Domains: People 42%, Process 50%, Business Environment 8%
Prep tip
Document your projects clearly before applying: role, dates, deliverables, hours leading. PMI audits and a tight application saves weeks.
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