PMBOK is the most well-known book for PMP aspirants. Rita’s PMP book is a popular choice amongst test-takers, too. Then which one should you go for? Well, let’s find out in this blog! Here, we highlight the strengths of both the project management books, where they lack, and how you can clear PMP with both in ammunition!
What Is PMBOK?
PMI’s Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK) requires no introduction to project professionals. It compiles fundamental project management concepts, covering various developmental approaches. The latest edition introduces 12 principles of project management and 8 performance domains for effective value delivery.
PMBOK includes the Standard of Project Management, which is accepted worldwide. It lists procedures, best practices, terminologies, and recommendations for effective project management. The book helps standardize procedures, adapt to specific needs, and prevent project failures. This makes PMBOK highly valued among all leading company PMOs.
About Rita’s PMP Exam Prep Book
Rita Mulcahy’s PMP book incorporates ideas from Process Groups: A Practice Guide, Examination Content Outline (ECO), and PMBOK Guide 7, in contrast to other manuals. It includes case studies, exercises, problem questions, thorough answers, mock tests, and even interactive games in addition to literature. RMCLS published the 11th Edition of Rita Mulcahy’s PMP Book in January 2023.
One standout feature is Rita Mulcahy’s Process Chart Game, which simplifies the complex 49 PMP process matrix using a gamified approach. In the latest 11th Edition, Rita’s Guide introduces Rita’s New Agile Process Chart Game. This game helps aspirants understand and apply agile project management within the PMP framework. By playing, you’ll grasp agile-based concepts effectively and be well-prepared for exam questions related to agile methodologies.
PMBOK vs Rita Mulcahy: Comparison
- Latest Editions of the Books:
PMI released the 7th Edition of the Project Management Body of Knowledge, PMBOK Guide, in August 2021, while Rita Mulcahy’s PMP Exam Prep 11th Edition debuted in January 2023. The newest PMBOK Guide introduced a fresh approach to PMP, while Rita Mulcahy’s previous 10th Edition directed readers to chapters in another guide called Agile Fundamentals. However, the current 11th Edition of Rita Mulcahy PMP book incorporates the new Agile concepts within the same book.
- Content Types: While PMBOK primarily offers theoretical content without practical exercises, Rita Mulcahy’s PMP Exam Prep provides exercises for applying concepts. Rita’s approach, drawn from PMBOK itself, simplifies complex concepts. Rita was a seasoned project management professional. She has imparted her thorough understanding of the subject, simplifying every PMP domain and standard in this book. Her book bridges gaps in PMBOK understanding and aligns with the current PMP Examination Content Outline (ECO). Furthermore, Rita Mulcahy’s PMP book includes numerous exercises for practice, offering insight into PMI’s project management approach through scenario-based and calculation-based questions. It also mirrors the wording style of the PMP exam, aiding in exam familiarity.
- Ease of Reading: While the PMBOK serves as the go-to resource for PMP exam readiness due to its reliability, many candidates struggle with its dry and monotonous presentation. In contrast, Rita’s PMP Book offers a more accessible approach, making complex concepts easier to comprehend. Rita’s book is structured to elucidate ideas in a conversational tone, akin to discussing with a peer rather than receiving information from an authority figure. This user-friendly layout enhances understanding, ensuring that anyone who utilizes her materials gains a clearer grasp of project management principles.
Rita Mulcahy PMP Book & PMBOK: Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is PMBOK 7 enough to pass PMP?
PMBOK 7 covers all your definitions, concepts, and “know-how”. However, only studying from the PMBOK 7 is not enough to pass the PMP exam. We recommend reading the entire PMBOK guide twice before taking the test while also referring to a good PMP exam prep book – such as Rita’s PMP book. This prepares you for calculation questions, such as those based on Earned Value and Critical Path (which PMI loves to add).
2. Is Rita Mulcahy enough for PMP?
Rita Mulcahy covers the entire PMP syllabus. It aligns with the current Examination Content Outline (ECO). It takes concepts from the PMBOK guide and the Process Groups: A Practice Guide, and simplifies them. Thus, it fills in any knowledge gaps. The ideal way to approach PMP is to read PMBOK for conceptual stronghold and Rita Mulcahy for problem-solving.
3. Can I pass PMP without reading PMBOK?
This is highly subjective to the aspirant. Some people do not refer to the PMBOK but rely on good-quality reference books and trainers. It’s really dependent on your level of studying and dedication. If you undergo incisive 4-day PMP Training, thoroughly refer to your guides, and attempt practice tests, you can pass PMP without reading the PMBOK.
Do You Need Both Books?
The short answer – YES.
Rita’s materials are known to be the top-of-the-line resources for PMP exam preparation in the world. This is due to their straightforward explanations, plenty of activities, and comprehensive solutions. On the contrary, the PMBOK guide is the established manual for the PMP certification prescribed by PMI itself. PMI has put all its great minds at work to craft the PMBOK guide. It gives you expert knowledge of project management practices (even if you’re already well-versed in it). Some people do pass the exam without skimming the textbook. However, it is still a vital resource for PMP exam preparation. We suggest reading it at least twice before taking the PMP test.
How to Ace Your PMP Exam With PMTI(Opens in a new browser tab)
Conclusion
In conclusion, aspiring Project Management Professionals should refer to the Rita Mulcahy PMP book as well as the PMBOK guide for their PMP exam prep. PMBOK helps you get your theory right, and the Rita Mulcahy PMP book prepares you for the oncoming exam questions.
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