Study guides
A free guide for every certification level, covering each competency area on the exam with practical examples. Read them online; no account needed.
PTMF study guide
An introduction to leading technical teams, planning work and communicating as a new manager.
PTMP study guide
Team leadership fundamentals, project planning, communication, agile practice, metrics and decision making. Suggested study time: 10–15 hours.
PTMA study guide
Leading multiple teams, resource and budget planning, stakeholder management and performance. Suggested study time: 15–20 hours.
PTME study guide
Organizational transformation, technical architecture, executive communication and multi-year strategy. Suggested study time: 20–30 hours.
PTMS study guide
Deep domain specialization, innovation and R&D leadership, thought leadership and industry standards. Suggested study time: 25–35 hours.
How to use the guides
The exams test whether you can apply ideas to realistic situations, not whether you can recite definitions.
Read systematically
Work through each competency area in order. Take notes on key concepts and examples that resonate with your experience.
Connect to experience
Relate the concepts to real situations you've encountered. Think through how you would apply these principles in your work.
Review multiple times
Don't try to absorb everything in one reading. Review the guide multiple times, focusing on different aspects each time.
Discuss with peers
Study with colleagues preparing for the same certification. Discussing concepts helps reinforce understanding and reveals different perspectives.
Studied enough?
The free PTMF exam is a low-stakes way to test yourself before a paid level.