Ultimate PMI-PBA Study Plan 2023
PMI-PBA Journey
Step 1: Enroll in PMI-PBA Exam with PMI Authorized Training Partner:
Embarking on the PMI-PBA journey is an exciting endeavor for business analysts seeking professional growth. Start your journey by enrolling in the PMI-PBA exam with a trusted PMI authorized training partner.
PM Training School is a PMI certified provider and has expert instructors and offers flexible course schedules to accommodate the busy lives of working professional.
Step 2: Submit PBA Exam Eligibility Application
Allocate 2-4 days to carefully complete and submit your PBA Exam Eligibility Application. This step is crucial for confirming your eligibility to sit for the exam.
Criterion 1:
- A secondary degree (high school diploma, associate’s degree or global equivalent)
- 7,500 hours (5 years) working as a practitioner of business analysis. This experience must have been earned in the last 8 years.
- 35 contact hours. Hours must have been earned in business analysis practices.
Criterion 2:
- Bachelor degree or higher degree (or global equivalent).
- 4,500 hours (3 years) working as a practitioner of business analysis. This experience must have been earned in the last 8 years.
- 35 contact hours. Hours must have been earned in business analysis practices
Use Learning Resource (R2) to take a lot of notes and ask instructor to clarify concepts.
Step 3: Get annual PMI Membership (139 USD)
Join PMI as an annual member to unlock exclusive benefits. With a membership fee of $139 USD, you can access Resource R3 and R4, providing valuable study materials and reference guides to enhance your exam preparation.
PMI membership offers numerous benefits for individuals who are pursuing a career in project management.
How to become PMI Member?
To become a PMI member, follow these steps:
(1). Go to the PMI website: Visit the PMI website at www.pmi.org and click on the “Join” button.
(2). Select membership type: Select the membership type that best fits your needs. PMI offers different membership options, including individual, student, and retiree memberships.
(3). Create a PMI account: If you do not already have a PMI account, you will need to create one. This will allow you to access member-only resources and tools.
(4). Complete the application: Fill out the membership application, providing your personal and professional information. You will also need to pay the membership fee.
(5). Receive confirmation: Once your application is approved, you will receive a confirmation email with instructions on how to access your member benefits.
Step 4: Self-study (study groups/coaching):
Self-study is an important aspect of the PMI – PBA journey, as it allows individuals to gain a deeper understanding of project management concepts and prepare for the PBA exam at their own pace.
Here are some reasons why self-study is important:
(1). Flexibility: Self-study allows individuals to study at their own pace and on their own schedule. This is particularly beneficial for those who have busy work schedules or other commitments.
(2). Mastery of concepts: Self-study allows individuals to focus on specific areas where they may need additional support or understanding. By studying on their own, individuals can take the time to fully grasp complex concepts.
(3). Reinforcement of learning: Self-study allows individuals to reinforce their learning by reviewing concepts. This can help individuals retain information and improve their understanding of project management concepts.
PM Training School’s learning portal for PBA practice exams can offer several benefits to PBA aspirants, including:
Step 5: Pay and schedule for PBA exam:
The PMI PBA exam fee structure varies depending on whether you are a PMI member or non-member. Here are the current exam fees
Exam Fee:
– PMI Member: $284 USD
– Non-Member: $555 USD
To schedule the exam, follow these steps:
(1). Create an account on the PMI website: If you don’t already have an account on the PMI website, you will need to create one.
(2). Submit your application: Once you have completed your 35 hours of project management education and meet the eligibility requirements, you can submit your PBA application for review.
(3). Wait for approval: PMI will review your application and confirm your eligibility to take the exam. This process can take up to 5 business days.
(4). Pay for the exam: Once your application has been approved, you will receive an email with instructions on how to pay for the exam.
(5). Schedule the exam: After you have paid for the exam, you can schedule your exam appointment through the Prometric website. You will need to choose a testing center and a date and time that works for you.
Realistic Exam Experience
The learning portal provides practice exams that are designed to simulate the actual certification exam.
Flexibility
The learning portal allows learners to access practice exams at their own convenience. Learners can choose the time and place.
Practice and Feedback
The learning portal allows learners to take multiple practice exams and receive instant feedback on their performance.
Step 6: Continue self-study:
Here are some recommended study resources for the PMI PBA exam:
PM Training School: PM Training School offers a comprehensive PMI PBA exam preparation course that includes study materials, practice exams, and live online classes with certified instructors.
Step 7: Sit for exam and pass PBA exam:
When it comes to answering exam questions, here are some tips:
(1). Read the question carefully: Make sure you understand what the question is asking before answering it.
(2). Eliminate wrong answers: If you’re unsure of the answer, eliminate any obviously wrong answers first. This will increase your chances of guessing correctly.
(3). Use the process of elimination: If you’re unsure of the answer, use the process of elimination to narrow down the choices.
(4). Manage your time: The PBA exam is timed, so it’s important to manage your time wisely. Don’t spend too much time on one question.
Step 8: Continue professional development:
(Managing your PDUs: 60 PDUs over 3 years)
(1). Plan ahead:
Plan your professional development activities well in advance, so you have enough time to earn the required PDUs.
(2). Keep track of your PDUs:
Use a PDU tracking tool to keep track of your earned PDUs, and ensure that you submit your PDU claims on time.
(3). Prioritize your development:
Prioritize your professional development opportunities based on your career goals and areas of improvement.
(4). Utilize online resources:
Take advantage of online resources, such as PMI’s Resource Center, to find professional development opportunities that align with your career goals.
Step 9: Renew your PMI PBA every 3 years
The PMI PBA renewal process involves earning and reporting 60 Professional Development Units (PDUs) every three years. Once you have earned the required PDUs, you can submit your PDU claims to PMI, which will then review and approve them.
Stay up-to-date
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Comprehensive Study Material:
The study plan include comprehensive study material covering all the knowledge areas and process groups of the PBA exam including textbooks, online courses, and other resources to provide a well-rounded understanding of the exam.
Structured Learning Modules:
The study plan is broken down into structured learning modules that cover different topics and concepts. This can help learners to stay organized and on track with their studies.
Practice Exams:
The study plan provides access to a series of practice exams that simulate the actual exam format, time constraints, and difficulty level. These practice exams help learners to gauge their exam readiness and identify areas where they need to improve.
Identify your career goals:
What skills do you need to develop, do you need to develop and where do you want to be in the future?
Look for relevant opportunities:
This could be attending training programs, volunteering for a relevant project, or attending seminars.
Choose reputable providers:
Look for PMI-approved training providers or providers with a good reputation in the industry.
PMI – PBA Learning Resources
(R1): PMI - PBA Exam Resource Book
(R2): Class handouts
(R3): Business analysis for Practitioners (Reference only)
(R4): The PMI Guide to
Business Analysis(Reference only)
(R6): PMTS Exam Simulator
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PMI – PBA EXAM PREP TRAINING – DELIVERY PLAN
Resource (R2): Course Handouts
Step 1:
Enroll in PMI -PBA Exam Prep Training course with a PMI Authorized Training Partner (PMI ATP).
Step 2:
Create a free PMI account at www.pmi.org.
Step 3:
Spend 35 hours to complete PMI- Certified Instructor Led Virtual or In Class course.
Participate in class discussion, breakouts groups and activities.
Use Learning Resource (R2) to take a lot of notes and ask instructor to clarify concepts.
Step 4:
Submit your PBA Exam eligibility application here. It will take 2-4 days by PMI to confirm your eligibility
Next Steps:
Get an updated Practice Exams Simulator (R5) and start practicing some exam questions. Keep reading to learn more about it
PMI – PBA PRACTICE EXAMS
Resource (R5): Any Updates Exam Simulator OR Learning portal
Right after completing the course, Give it a go to some PBA Exam Prep Questions (Some
quizzes and one practice exams)
You should attempt at least 150-200 questions before moving forward
Step 1: Mastery Builds
Attempt all the questions as given in Mastery Build, provided by PMI (Ask your trainer about Master Build) OR Reach to us through support detail as given below.
Step 2: Quizzes (150-200 Questions)
Attempt at least 150- 200 Question as available on your purchased exam simulator/ learning portal or free on Internet. These question can be in the form of one full exam or in
the forms of quizzes (e.g. Quiz 1- 7 at PM Training School Learning Portal)
Post Study Support and Coaching:
Consider joining a study group OR ask your trainer for post training coaching sessions.
Reach to us for options:
support@pmtrainingschool.com
+64211036356 (WhatsApp)
PMI – PBA PRACTICE EXAMS
Resource (R5): Any Updates Exam Simulator OR Learning portal
Right after completing the course, Give it a go to some PBA Exam Prep Questions (Some
quizzes and one practice exams)
You should attempt at least 150-200 questions before moving forward
TOPIC 1: PMI-PBA FUNDAMENTALS
Resource (R1): PBA Exam Prep Resource Book (First 4 Chapters )
Step 1:
Spend 12 hours to complete reading of Chapter 1 to 4
Step 2:
Take notes of key concepts.
TOPIC 2: NEED ASSESSMENT
Resource (R1): PBA Exam Prep Resource Book ( Chapter 5 )
Step 1:
Spend two days to complete reading of Chapter 5
Step 2:
Take notes of key concepts.
Step 3:
Take quiz # 1 to assess your knowledge of Chapter 5
TOPIC 3: STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT & BA PLANNING
Resource (R1): PBA Exam Prep Resource Book (Chapter 6)
Step 1:
Spend 2 days to complete reading of Chapter 6
Step 2:
Take notes of key concepts.
Step 3:
Take quiz # 2 based on Chapter 6
TOPIC 4: REQUIREMENTS ELICITATION
Resource (R1): PBA Exam Prep Resource Book ( Chapter 7 )
Step 1:
Spend one day to complete reading of Chapter 7
Step 2:
Take notes of key concepts.
Step 3:
Take quiz # 3 to assess your knowledge of Chapter 7
TOPIC 5: BUSINESS ANALYSIS
Resource (R1): PBA Exam Prep Resource Book ( Chapter 8 )
Step 1:
Spend Four days to complete reading of Chapter 8
Step 2:
Take notes of key concepts.
TOPIC 6: REQUIREMENTS TRACEABILITY & MONITORING
Resource (R1): PBA Exam Prep Resource Book ( Chapter 9)
Step 1:
Spend One day to complete reading of Chapter 9
Step 2:
Take notes of key concepts.
Step 3:
Take quiz # 4 to assess your knowledge of Chapter 9
TOPIC 7 : SOLUTION EVALUATION
Resource (R1): PBA Exam Prep Resource Book ( Chapter 9)
Step 1:
Spend 3 hours to complete reading of Chapter 10
Step 2:
Take notes of key concepts.
Step 3:
Take quiz # 5 based on Chapter 10
Brain Busters: Put Your Knowledge to the Test with Our Challenging Certification Practice Exams !
PBA PRACTICE EXAMS
Resource (R5): Any Updates Exam Simulator OR Learning portal
After Completing the full reading of the Learning resourse (R2) , Start practicing Mock
Exam/ practice questions:
Step 1: Practice Exam 1
Complete a full practice exam (200 Qs) in 4 hours. You should be getting at least 60% Marks.
Identify the Gaps and consult with suggested learning resources (R2, R3,R4)
Step 2: Practice Exam N
Practice as many exams as possible (Minimum 600 Questions)
Identify the Gaps and consult with suggested learning resources (R2, R3, R4)
Next Steps:
Keep reading for next steps.
Post Study Support and Coaching
Consider joining a study group OR ask your trainer for post training coaching sessions.
Reach to us for options:
- support@pmtrainingschool.com
- +64211036356 (WhatsApp)
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
ALLOCATION OF QUESTIONS
TIMELINE OF PMI – PBA CERTIFICATION PROCESS
PMI – PBA ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENT
PMI – PBA EXAM INFORMATION
Pro Tips To Prepare for PBA Exam
Familiarize yourself with the PBA Exam Format and Content,
which includes 200 questions to be completed within a 4-
hour time frame.
Gain a thorough understanding of the resources R3 and R4,
and utilize them as valuable references.
Utilize the updated Study Materials provided by Premier
ATP to ensure you have the most current and relevant
information.
Enhance your preparation by joining a Study Group, such as
the WhatsApp-based PMTS Study Group, to engage with
fellow exam takers and benefit from shared insights.
Strengthen your knowledge and test-taking skills by taking
multiple Practice Exams
Identify and address your weaknesses by seeking guidance
from your instructor, coach, or consulting resources such as
R1-R5.
Effectively manage your study time by allocating breaks
and utilizing them wisely
Stay motivated throughout your PMI-PBA preparation,
recognizing that it is a marathon rather than a sprint, and
maintaining a positive mindset to sustain your progress.
Pro Tips To Prepare for PBA Exam
Dedicate a consistent daily study time of 2-3 hours for PMI-PBA
Exam preparation.
Plan ahead by scheduling the exam at least 2-4 weeks in
advance
Aim to take the PMI-PBA Exam within 1-3 months after completing the workshop.
Engage in frequent practice exams, utilizing both free and paid
options, ensuring they are up-to-date.
Maintain a positive mindset and do not let mock exam results
demotivate you
Allocate time to review and revise mock exams at least one week prior to the exam, focusing on familiarizing yourself with the content rather than attempting new exams.
Opt for a Pearson Vue test center instead of scheduling a proctored exam
Actively participate in Study Group discussions and contribute by answering questions, fostering an interactive learning
environment.
Pro Tips for to prepare for PBA EXAM
Familiarize yourself with the different question types in the PBA Exam, including multiple-choice questions (MCQs), questions with multiple answers, hotspot questions, true/false questions, and drag-and-drop questions
When reading a question for the first time, take your time to read it slowly and attentively.
If a question is lengthy, start by reading the last line first to gain a better understanding of the context
Determine the context of the question or the process group it relates to, in order to provide a more accurate response.
Put yourself in the mindset of a Business Analyst while preparing for the exam, considering their role and responsibilities in the given scenarios.
Understand the role mentioned in the question’s context, whether it pertains to a Project Manager, Sponsor, Business Analyst, or others, to provide the most appropriate answer.
Utilize the elimination technique when solving PBA questions, systematically eliminating incorrect answer options to increase your chances of select in the correct one.
Pro Tip: After solving mock questions, reflect on the root causes of any mistakes made and learn from them, incorporating those lessons into your preparation.
Familiarize yourself with the format and content of the PBA Exam, as it can provide valuable insights and help you prepare more effectively
When reviewing answer options, start by reading the last option first (Option D) and then move upwards to Option C, B, and finally Option A
TIP # 01: UNDERSTAND PMI-ISM
The following tips emphasize understanding the “PMI way of doing things” and utilizing this knowledge to identify the correct answers in PBA exam
questions.
- Imagine yourself as a Business Analyst operating in an ideal world
where everything functions seamlessly. The needs are assessed, and a business case is developed prior to creating a charter. External and internal stakeholders, including project managers and teams, are engaged early on, before formulating a PBA plan.
Various tools and techniques are employed to elicit requirements,
and business analysis models are utilized to record, verify, validate,
and prioritize these requirements.
Traceability matrices or other tools are used to monitor and track
requirements.
The solution is evaluated to assess its effectiveness and value for
the organization and stakeholders. - During the PBA exam, envision a large organization that adheres to
proper Business Analysis practices. This organization serves as a
model, with established processes, experienced staff, and a healthy
work culture. The correct answers will generally reflect the actions of a
knowledgeable Business Analyst operating within such an
organization. - Furthermore, this proficient BA recognizes the importance of following proper BA practices, established processes, and defined procedures, which contribute to project and product success.
While it is acceptable and even encouraged to tailor these processes
for specific projects and make adjustments when necessary, it is
essential not to disregard or disregard them completely.
PBA EXAM TIP#02 EFFECTIVE TIME
MANAGEMENT DURING EXAM
This is a crucial step that should be prioritized at the top of my list. Often, we tend to rush through reading questions, resulting in the need to reread them multiple times. It’s important to note that you have 240 minutes for the PBA exam, making effective time management essential. I recommend allocating 80 minutes for the initial 60 questions, followed by a 10-minute break. Then, dedicate another 80 minutes for the subsequent 70 questions, with another 10- minute break. Finally, assign the remaining 80 minutes for the final 70 questions. Maintaining time management requires consciously slowing down your thought process to identify and comprehend the question’s context. By adopting a slower pace, your mind will naturally search for the necessary information, allowing you to focus more effectively
Start practicing this technique today to enhance your exam preparation.
PBA EXAM TIP # 03: READ THE LAST LINE OF QUESTION FIRST
This technique is particularly effective for questions that span more than three lines, as the crucial information is often found in the last line. Utilizing this approach can help you save valuable time, especially when you’re running low on time during the exam. It’s worth noting that the last line of such questions typically contains prompts like
- “What would the Business Analyst do next?”
- “What should have been done?”
- “How can this be avoided?”
- “An issue has occurred.”
- “What is the best approach?”
- “Which plan needs updating?”
- “Which document needs updating?”
By being aware of this pattern, you can better grasp the essence of the question, allowing you to answer it more effectively. However, it’s essential to practice this technique regularly in order to internalize it and make it a habitual part of your exam strategy
PBA EXAM TIP # 04: IDENTIFY THE KEYWORDS
If you can identify the keywords correctly. The question is yours. Some keywords are like
- Risk has occurred related to Product/Solution
- A stakeholder is added, or A new stakeholder is identified
- You want to communicate
- The project is closed/ canceled
- Deliverable is rejected
- You are reviewing the product requirments
- Change in requirements or scope has been raised/ Approved
PBA EXAM TIP # 05 USE ELIMINATION TECHNQUIE TO SOLVE PBA
QUESTION
Follow this step religiously to get 80% of questions correct
What is the elimination technique? You must justify each step of the question.
Let’s say you are on option A, and you believe it is the correct answer. You must justify to yourself why you think it’s the right answer, but do not select it yet. Mark it and move on to the next option.
If option B seems incorrect, justify why you think it’s the wrong option. If option C seems correct, justify why and mark it. If option D seems incorrect, justify why it’s wrong.
This is a common scenario in the PBA exam where you are left with two options.
Please note that it’s possible you may have already selected option A and moved on, but this goes against the principles of the elimination technique. You must go through each option and never rush.
Now that you’re left with two options, use the same technique to
justify which option makes more sense, and choose that option.
PBA EXAM TIP # 06 IDENTIFY ROOT CAUSE – LESSON LEARNED AFTER
SOLVING QUESTION
Now that you have solved the question, should you move on to the next mock exam? No! Otherwise, you will make the same mistakes repeatedly. Please stop here and identify what you did wrong and why you made the mistake. What did you learn from this particular question?
Use an Excel file as a lesson learned template to review your mistakes and determine which topics you are struggling with the most. Then, work to improve your understanding of those topics. By consistently following this process, you will become a PBA.
Please note that this is considered the most important step by a certified PBA
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