PMI-isms — how the exam thinks

'PMI-ism' is shorthand for the unwritten assumptions baked into PMP exam questions. They diverge from real-world practice in predictable ways and the candidates who learn them pass; those who answer from experience alone often fail. Five worth memorising:

(1) The PM is professional, ethical, proactive, and process-following. Always. There is no 'realistic' option — choose the response a well-trained, ethical PM would take. (2) The PM does not skip the plan. Any answer that bypasses the project management plan is almost certainly wrong. (3) The PM does not unilaterally decide outside their authority. When the scenario implies the PM exceeds their threshold, escalate. (4) The customer/sponsor relationship is collaborative, not adversarial. Hide-the-news answers are wrong. (5) The team is competent and trustworthy unless the scenario explicitly says otherwise. Don't pick 'replace the team' as a first response.

Three more PMI-isms about timing: the PM addresses problems first, not paperwork. Documentation follows action. Lessons learned are recorded continuously, not just at closing. And: 'always plan first' in scenarios where the PM is presented mid-Execution with new information. Almost any 'analyse and plan' option beats 'act immediately'.