Syllabus

CAPM Exam Content Areas Explained

By The Exam Atlas Editorial Team · Verified 2026-05-29

CAPM is defined by PMI’s Exam Content Outline across four areas. This is a plain-English summary with approximate weightings; the official ECO is authoritative.

#Content areaApprox. weight
1Project Management Fundamentals and Core Concepts~36%
2Predictive, Plan-Based Methodologies~17%
3Agile Frameworks and Methodologies~20%
4Business Analysis Frameworks~27%

1 — Fundamentals and core concepts

Roles, project lifecycles, key terminology (scope, schedule, cost, quality, risk, stakeholders), and the work breakdown structure.

2 — Predictive, plan-based methodologies

Planning and managing a traditional, plan-up-front project, including baselines and change control.

3 — Agile frameworks and methodologies

Iterative and adaptive delivery, common agile frameworks, roles and events, and when agile is appropriate.

4 — Business analysis frameworks

Requirements elicitation, stakeholder analysis, and evaluating whether a solution meets needs.

FAQ

What does the CAPM exam cover?
Four areas: Project Management Fundamentals and Core Concepts, Predictive Plan-Based Methodologies, Agile Frameworks and Methodologies, and Business Analysis Frameworks.

Sources