If you are studying for the PMP, the Exam Content Outline (ECO) is the most useful free resource available. It is published by PMI and shows exactly what will be tested, broken down by topic area. Search “PMP ECO” in Google and it will be the first result. If you are sitting the exam after July 2026, make sure you download the 2026 version.
The exam covers three domains.
People (33%)
This domain covers the human side of project management: developing a shared vision with the team, managing conflict, leading versus managing, engaging and aligning stakeholders, ensuring knowledge transfer and planning communications. Conflict resolution is worth understanding well here, particularly the difference between win-lose, lose-win and win-win (collaborative problem solving) approaches.
Process (41%)
This is the largest domain and covers the mechanics of running a project. Key areas include developing an integrated project management plan, defining and managing scope through a work breakdown structure, planning and managing resources, procurement, finance, quality and schedule. It also covers evaluating project status using earned value concepts and managing project closure, including stakeholder acceptance, knowledge transfer, lessons learned and releasing resources.
Business Environment (26%)
This domain has grown significantly, up from 8% on the previous exam. The content is not entirely new though. Much of what now sits here, including change control, risk management and issue management, was previously covered under process. Key topics include establishing project governance, managing compliance, controlling changes through a change control board, removing impediments, continuous improvement through retrospectives and supporting organizational change so the delivered product actually sticks in the business.
Study these three domains and their topics and you will know exactly what the exam is testing. The ECO is the clearest guide available and it is free.
– David McLachlan
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Navigate to Free Project Management and Leadership Articles through the links on the right (or at the bottom if on Mobile)
Also available are my Project Management Templates – they’re a great way to save 100s of hours when you’re first starting out:
 50+ Project Management Templates in Excel and PowerPoint (Gantt Chart, Risk Matrix and more!) |
 Pre-made Project Management Plan Templates: Save 100 HOURS! |