TOPIC: Failed PMP Second Time

My biggest challenge is being able to stay focused. It sounds a bit immature but after about 10-15 questions I simply can't stay focused. I will read and re-read the same question over and over again and literally have a hard time keeping the focus to answer the question. This was true during the test simulations and even more challenging during the exam. The first one that I failed I got through all 200 questions in less than an hour simply because I had to leave the testing center I couldn't stay put this was over a year ago.

Since then I re-registered for the exam and tried to study and build up to taking practice test slowly over time to see if I can slowly add more and more test questions and increase my concentration time but I was never able to get through all 200 practice questions. I did go and take the exam again since my 1 year was coming up and I thought that at the very least I can try to get through the test. Once again I failed due to a similar issue of not being able to focus on the questions and this intense need to get out of the testing center asap. I have made an appointment to see a specialist since I do wonder if I have a learning disability and may need some medication to focus or some alternative treatment (kind of embarrassing to admit to but there are other signs like dyslexia etc...). I'm also looking at investing in a PMP boot camp although not sure if that will help me if I can't sit through the exam.

I am sharing this since not being able to pass the PMP has started impacting my personal and professional life since I'm not use to failing especially when the issue has to do with literally not being able to concentrate on the questions. Also, I'm curious if anyone else has experienced anything similar and has any guidance or suggestions.

Thank you

Hello Nune,

Sorry to hear that you have such a big obstacle in between you and your goal. I totally understand the feeling that we often have to put in extra work to achieve the same result as others.

Like I said to the other students before, getting your mental condition up is half of the exam prep. While I cannot offer any medical advice to you. I can help you with some study tips:

-Try to finish the entire 200-question exam. No matter how long it takes, 4, 5, 8 hours. Once you have completed a full exam you will give a message to your brain that this is achievable.
-If possible, find someone to sit with you while you are doing your exam. Just like finding a spotter in the gym, the person will keep you in check and motivates you to finish the entire exam.
-When you find yourself losing focus, take a break. Even a 10-sec eye break will help.

Remember, small steps lead to big goals

Hello Joe,
Thank you for the support and encouraging words. I think that having someone with me during a practice exam for support may be a good way to stay encouraged - this is one option I had not thought about. I'm going to give that a try.

Once again, thank you for taking the time to write,
Nube