Cheat Sheet
PMP Cheat Sheet: Domains, EVM Formulas & Mindset
By The Exam Atlas Editorial Team · Verified 2026-05-29
A final-revision summary for the PMP. Study aid only — no notes are allowed into the proctored exam.
The three domains
People (42%) · Process (50%) · Business Environment (8%). About half the content reflects agile or hybrid delivery.
Earned Value Management (EVM)
| Metric | Formula | Meaning |
|---|
| CV (Cost Variance) | EV − AC | Negative = over budget |
| SV (Schedule Variance) | EV − PV | Negative = behind schedule |
| CPI (Cost Performance Index) | EV / AC | < 1 = over budget |
| SPI (Schedule Performance Index) | EV / PV | < 1 = behind schedule |
| EAC (Estimate at Completion) | BAC / CPI | Forecast total cost |
| VAC (Variance at Completion) | BAC − EAC | Forecast over/under |
Risk responses
| Threats | Opportunities |
|---|
| Avoid, Transfer, Mitigate, Accept, Escalate | Exploit, Share, Enhance, Accept, Escalate |
The PMP mindset (quick prompts)
- Be a servant leader: support and empower the team.
- Address the root cause before escalating.
- Engage stakeholders early and often.
- Prefer collaboration and prevention over control and reaction.
FAQ
- Can I bring a cheat sheet to the PMP exam?
- No. It is proctored. Use this for final revision before exam day only; you may get a brain-dump sheet at the test centre after starting.
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