Important PMP Terms

 

1. Introduction to PMP Exam Key Terms

• These terms often appear as drag-and-drop or multiple-choice questions on the PMP exam.
• Understanding them helps with project planning, execution, and team management.
• Example:
  • If a team procrastinates until the deadline, they are showing Student Syndrome.

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2. Key Terms & Definitions

✅ 1) Student Syndrome (Planned Procrastination)

• Definition: People delay starting a task until the last possible moment, eliminating any buffer time.
• Impact: Increases risk, stress, and errors due to last-minute rush.
• Example:
  • A developer is given five days to complete a module but starts only on the last day, leaving no time for fixes if issues arise.
• Solution: Encourage early starts and incremental progress tracking.

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✅ 2) Parkinson’s Law

• Definition: Work expands to fill the time allocated for its completion.
• Impact: Leads to inefficiency and wasted time.
• Example:
  • A tester is given two weeks to finish testing but stretches the work to fit the full two weeks, even though it could be done in one.
• Solution: Set realistic deadlines and use timeboxing techniques.

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✅ 3) Self-Protection

• Definition: People act in ways that avoid risk or harm to themselves in the present or future.
• Impact: Leads to cautious behavior, delayed decisions, and lack of initiative.
• Example:
  • A team member avoids reporting risks because they fear blame if something goes wrong.
• Solution: Create a safe environment where team members feel comfortable raising concerns.

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✅ 4) Sandbagging (Underpromise & Overdeliver)

• Definition: Deliberately setting low expectations so that results seem better than expected.
• Impact: Creates false expectations and inefficiencies in project planning.
• Example:
  • A development team knows they can complete six features but only commits to four to look good when they deliver six.
• Solution: Encourage accurate estimates rather than manipulating expectations.

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✅ 5) Dropped Baton (Poor Handover Between Teams)

• Definition: When one team completes their task but the next team isn’t ready to take over, causing delays.
• Impact: Wasted time, resource inefficiency, and missed deadlines.
• Example:
  • The development team finishes coding early, but the testing team isn’t ready, delaying the project by a week.
• Solution: Improve handover coordination and ensure teams are ready for transitions.

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3. Why These Terms Matter for PMP Exam & Real Projects

• Helps recognize inefficiencies in project execution.
• Improves time and resource management.
• Enhances teamwork and coordination.
• Prepares you for exam questions related to project behaviors and risks.

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Key Takeaway: Recognizing These Behaviors Leads to Better Project Management

• Avoid procrastination & inefficiencies (Student Syndrome & Parkinson’s Law).
• Encourage transparency & realistic commitments (Self-Protection & Sandbagging).
• Ensure smooth handovers between teams (Dropped Baton).