Tips to Pass the APM Project Professional Qualification (PPQ)

Introduction

If you’re preparing for the APM Project Professional Qualification (PPQ) 2nd edition assessment, this blog post aims to offer a streamlined guide that includes essential tips, insights, and a simplified process for analysing the case studies. This guide should be read alongside the Professional Qualification 2nd edition Candidate notes available from the APM.

Important Note: Closed-Book Assessment

The APM PPQ assessment is a closed-book exam. While you may bring lightly annotated copies of the case studies, you won’t have access to external materials. Therefore, your in-depth understanding of the case studies is crucial for success.

Understand the Case Studies

Company and Project Case Studies

• Company Case Study: Available on the APM website, offering an overview of a fictional company and its associated programme.
• Project Case Study: Provided four weeks before your assessment, detailing a specific project within the programme.

Your Role and Preparation

You will assume the role of Project Manager for the specific project in the case study. Given the closed-book nature of the exam, a rigorous analysis of the case studies is essential.

A Simplified Guide to Analysing the Case Study

Step 1: Initial Reading and Identification of Key Elements

• Objective: Familiarise yourself with the overall context and identify essential components like risks, issues, and problems.
• Action: Read through the case study once, highlighting or underlining key elements for future reference.

Step 2: Apply the STAR Method

• Objective: Assess key elements against each assessment criterion using the STAR method.
• Action: For each key element:
• Situation: What is the context or problem?
• Task/Theory: What relevant task or theory is applicable?
• Action: What actions could be taken?
• Recommendation: Which action would you recommend and why?

Step 3: Ensure Realism and Relevance

• Objective: Make sure your analysis and proposed actions are realistic and relevant to the case study.
• Action: Cross-reference your proposed actions with the case study to ensure they are both practical and pertinent.

Example Learning Outcome

Consider the learning outcome: “Critically evaluate ways to capture, record, and review proposed options for change to determine the impact on a project’s scope and objectives.”

Answer questions like:

• How are options for change currently captured?
• What process could be implemented for capturing and recording these options?
• Who should be involved in the review process?
• How can governance processes be adhered to?

These questions align with the APM competence framework and help you tailor your response effectively.

Command Verbs

• Critically Evaluate: Provide a well-backed judgement and offer a contextual recommendation.
• Critically Analyse: Dissect the details, highlighting pros and cons within the case study context.
• Demonstrate: Showcase your practical skills and knowledge.

Exam Techniques

Before the Exam

• Practice with sample papers available on the APM website.
• Ensure you’re comfortable with the operational and technical aspects of the exam.

Tip: Save system emails with assessment links and login details for easy access on the exam day.

During the Exam

• Listen carefully to fully understand each question.
• Align your answers with the case study and established project management theories.
• Use your prior experience but keep the focus on the case study and appropriate terminology.

Tip: Utilise the 15-minute reading time at the start of the written assignment to fully comprehend the question and formulate your approach.

By adhering to this streamlined guide, you’ll be well-prepared to succeed in the APM Project Professional Qualification assessment. Good luck!