PMP Exam Content Outline

The PMP Exam Content Outline (ECO) defines the content covered in the PMP examination. The 2021 ECO represents a major shift from previous versions, with approximately 50% of questions now covering agile/hybrid approaches. The ECO is organised into three domains: People, Process, and Business Environment.

The PMP exam features 180 questions in 230 minutes, including multiple question formats: multiple choice, multiple responses, matching, hotspot, and drag-and-drop. This variety of question formats tests application of knowledge, not just recall.

Key Points

• 50% predictive, 50% agile/hybrid split in PMP exam (since 2021)
• Three domains: People (42%), Process (50%), Business Environment (8%)
• PMP requires 3 years PM experience (degree) OR 5 years (high school diploma)
• 35 hours of PM education required
• 180 questions in 230 minutes
• Multiple question formats: MCQ, multiple response, matching, hotspot
• No single correct answer for many scenario questions — choose 'most likely' or 'best'
• PDUs (Professional Development Units) required for renewal: 60 every 3 years

Key Terms & Definitions

PDU

Professional Development Unit — one hour of approved learning activity, required to maintain PMP certification.

CCR Program

Continuing Certification Requirements — the PMI programme requiring 60 PDUs every 3-year cycle to maintain certification.

Exam Content Outline (ECO)

The definitive guide to PMP examination content, defining domains, tasks, and knowledge areas tested.

People Domain

PMP exam domain covering leadership, team management, and stakeholder engagement (42% of exam).

Process Domain

PMP exam domain covering project delivery processes, risk, quality, and planning (50% of exam).

Business Environment Domain

PMP exam domain covering organisational strategy, benefits, compliance, and change (8% of exam).