Can you use calculator for PMP exam?

Can you use calculator for PMP exam?

Learning Mudra, Category - PMP

Why to use calculator ?

Starting the discussion on Can you use calculator for PMP exam? When it comes to project management certification such as Project management professionals need to go an extra mile to clear the PMP exam. Aspirants not only go through a rigorous coursework, but they also have to clear the online PMP exam in order to get their certification from the Project Management Institute (PMI). Therefore it is very crucial to understand, especially for the first time candidates, that the PMP exam comes with its own level of difficulty and complexity . There are total 180 questions with above average difficulty level which are supposed to be completed in 4 hours.

Out of these 180 questions, 30-40 questions generally involve mathematical equations, numerical and formulas. The PMBOK guide also consists of numerous formulas on Critical Path Methodology, Cost Estimation, and Monetary Value etc., which should all be memorized by the aspirants. The inclusion of such complex mathematical subjects makes the exam a little difficult for the candidates , especially for individuals who don’t have much prior mathematical experience or knowledge. Hence, using a calculator may not open the overall mathematical Pandora box for individuals, but it may surely provide some ease for the candidates in solving the complex questions. Click here to read "How to get 4500 hours of PMP?"

Can you use the calculator?

As a lot of examinees are worried about the questions based in mathematics which constitutes a substantial part of the PMP exam, they ponder over the fact that whether calculators are allowed to use during the exam or not. To put it straight forward, ‘Yes' you can use the calculator in the PMP exam. As a matter of fact, you have dual option for using a calculator while undertaking the PMP exam. Either you can get the calculations done for you with the help of the calculator application built in the computer or you can ask for a calculator from the PMP exam centre through which you are taking the exam. Although it’s always a wiser option to get the clarity beforehand regarding the availability of the calculator from the institution.

What kind of calculator you can use?

Mostly, the calculations involved in the PMP exam are not too complex and in a lot of casescan be solved without even using a calculator. However, in case candidates feel the need of a calculator, they can use ‘non-programmed calculator with basic functions. So, either a built-in calculator or a physical one, the basic calculator will get the job done for you easily. However, one thing which should be kept in mind that bringing your personal calculator is not allowed in the exam room, even if it is the basic one. So, it’s better to rely on the on-system calculator or the one provided by the exam centre.

For more information on use of calculator for PMP exam; get in touch with us at +91-987-123-7360 or email us at info@learningmudra.com

While preparing for the PMP exam,candidates may realize that in order to clear the exams they have to memorize a lot of formulas and equations to solve the maths questions.This may sound like a daunting task but when you are in the middle of your preparations, you somehow manage to gulp them all down. As you are supposed to learn these mathematical tools by yourself,therefore, getting personal calculators are not allowed, which may have pre-stored formulas by the candidates. Even the calculators provided by the centres are basic calculators, similar to ones stored on computers.

Mostly it has been advised to use the computer or windows-based calculators. As they are mostly available on all the computer systems and are quite easy to operate. Consequently, they are the mostly the first choice of the candidates. Alongside, sometimes the exam centres don’tprovide with the facility of calculators during the exam. Therefore, using the windows-based calculators also provide you with an extra safety net, at least in getting your calculations done.

Practice using the calculator before exam

As a candidate, prepare all the elements before going to sit in the PMP exams, it is also a wiser option to get yourself acquainted with the use of windows-based calculators so that in exam you save some precious time. Also, as most people are used to use the physical calculators, getting into the habit of using the on-system calculator need a little effort and practice. Therefore, it is recommended to switch to the window-based calculator as soon as you start your preparations for PMP exam. Additionally, there is a small trick to enhance your familiarity with the window-based calculator. While preparing for online PMP exam try to use the windows-based calculators even for smallest of the small of the calculations.

This will increase you speed and accuracy of calculation while using it during the exam, which not only save the time but also help you to avoid mistakes. The last thing you want to do is to make a silly mistake after preparing so hard for the exam. It is understandable that clearing the PMP exam may become challenging and often stressful. Therefore, using all the tools at your disposal is a smart option to ease your way into the exam. So, if the use of calculator is allowed officially during the PMP exam, then why not to use that option in its full capacity. Click here to read "How are PMP hours calculated ?"