TOPIC: Passed PMP on first try on April 13th, 2009

The key to passing the exam is to focus on the following:

- the process groups
- the knowledge areas
- which processes belong to which process groups and knowledge areas (matrix form is best way to memorize)
- the inputs, outputs and tools and techniques for each process (is a lot to memorize but is key to passing with flying colors)
- notes in the PMBOK related to each input, output, tool and technique for each process (some exam questions will query you about a single input, output, tool or technique for a given process)
- make up your own acronyms, phrases, songs, etc. to help you memorize long lists of things, e.g. list of knowledge areas

The key to passing the exam is memorization. Like the PM PrepCast points out, the exam is a knowledge exam so everything depends on how much you "remember". The best way for me to memorize was to read several sources several times and to listen to the PM PrepCast several times during my commute and exercise.