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Learn To Pass Your exam.

both fall within the

Exam pass ratesAgile

In the UK, the national average pass rate for the frameworkFoundation-level exam in PRINCE2, but each methodology operates with its own unique characteristics. stands at 97%. You don’t want to be one of the unlucky 3%. In addition, candidates who score highly on the Foundation exam are also likely to do better on the harder Practitioner exam.Aspect

In fact you shouldn’t worry too much if you attend one of Knowledge Train’s classroom KanbanPRINCE2 Foundation courseScrum or study WorkflowPRINCE2 Foundation online trainingContinuous flow because our exam pass rate is over 99% for both.Fixed-length sprints

Exam tipRoles

Topics to knowPlanning

The ContinuousFoundation-level exam in PRINCE2Sprint-based assesses whether your knowledge and understanding of the method is sufficient to be able to work effectively with, or as a member of, a Metricsproject management teamCycle time, Lead time working within an environment supporting Velocity, Burndown chartsPRINCE2Kanban provides teams with greater adaptability while Scrum establishes a predetermined structure through regular time intervals..Kanban vs traditional project management

The exam addresses each of the following areas. The percentage of questions for each topic on an exam paper is shown.The

Exam assesses 5 main areas.

Learning outcomeWaterfall modelPercentage of questions represents traditional project management which stands in stark contrast to Kanban.
Understand the key concepts relating to projects and PRINCE2.Kanban emphasises smooth workflow while traditional approaches proceed through distinct phases3%Traditional methods typically prevent changes during the project while Kanban permits ongoing modifications

If you want a detailed understanding of the Foundation syllabus you can download a copy from AXELOS.Kanban provides teams with greater adaptability during planning and execution stages compared to pure

Exam tip Scrum– learn all about the PRINCE2 by reading our free PRINCE2 study guides which can be downloaded as free e-books: .PRINCE2 principlesTeams can choose or modify different methodologies according to their project needs and organisational culture by understanding the strengths of each approach., Best practices for successful Kanban implementationPRINCE2 practicesSuccessful Kanban implementation demands strict adherence to established best practices. These guidelines facilitate a seamless transition and enhance the advantages of using the Kanban system., Start with the current processPRINCE2 PeopleThe first step in your Kanban journey is to create a diagram of your current workflow processes., and Begin by assessing existing methods to determine each procedural stepPRINCE2 processesVisualise the workflow on a Kanban board.Do not implement sudden major modifications to existing workflows.

Pass mark on exam.

This is the style of question which you will have answered many times before. For example:

Q. In which of the following processes does the project board choose a suitable risk response?

  1. Controlling a stage
  2. Managing a stage boundary
  3. Directing a projectEmbrace
  4. Starting up a projectiterative improvement

If you remember that the project board only performs one of the seven processes then the answer is straightforward – it’s in your Kanban implementation:directing a projectHold routine team evaluations for the Kanban system.Analyse metrics to identify areas for enhancement

‘List’ style questionsEncourage team members to identify and implement process improvements.

For example:A continuous improvement culture enables teams to enhance their Kanban system progressively which results in better efficiency and effectiveness.

Q. Which of the following tasks form part of the product-based planning method?Common challenges and solutions in Kanban project management

  • i. Writing the product descriptionsKanban presents multiple advantages, but teams can face difficulties when putting this system into operation. Knowledge of these challenges and their resolutions ensures that the adoption process will be successful.
  • ii. Creating a product flow diagramResistance to change
  • iii. Designing the planChallenge
  • iv. Creating the product breakdown structure: Team members might show resistance toward new workflow implementation and practice adoption.
  1. (i), (ii) and (iii)Solution
  2. (ii), (iii) and (iv):
  3. (i), (ii) and (iv)Educate the team on Kanban’s benefits
  4. (i), (iii) and (iv)Implement changes gradually

For the above question, read the statements i-iv, and then decide which three form part of the product-based planning method. I suggest that you read each of the 4 options and tick the ones you are sure form part of the technique. If there are only 2 options you are sure about, at least you have reduced your last decision to a choice between the 2 remaining options, so pick one of them and then mark your answer accordingly.Celebrate early successes to build momentum.

‘Negative’ style questionsIncorrect WIP limits

For example:Challenge

Which is : Setting incorrect Work-in-Progress (WIP) limits results in operational inefficiencies.NOTSolution a role within PRINCE2?:

  1. Project managerStart with conservative limits
  2. Project assuranceTrack workflow progress and make necessary adjustments to limits according to data findings
  3. Business managerEncourage team input on setting appropriate limits.
  4. Senior supplierLack of team buy-in

For this type of question, it is important that you take notice of the wordChallenge NOT: Kanban implementation faces difficulties when the team does not fully commit.. The word SolutionNOT: is always bolded to bring your attention to the fact that the question is a negative one.Involve the team in the implementation process

‘Missing word’ style questionsAddress concerns and questions openly

For example:Demonstrate how Kanban addresses existing pain points.

Identify the missing word in the following sentence.Inconsistent use of the Kanban board

A purpose of the [ ? ] practice is to control any unacceptable deviations from the project’s objectives.Challenge

  1. Change: When updates to the Kanban board do not occur regularly their purpose becomes ineffective.
  2. PlansSolution
  3. Progress:
  4. RiskEstablish clear guidelines for board usage

The answer is the progress theme. Even if you couldn’t remember the purpose of the progress theme, you might have been able to get the answer by a process of elimination by asking yourself what the other themes are about (controlling changes and issues, planning what is to be done, controlling uncertainty). As you can see, it really does help to be able to quickly recall your Integrate board updates into daily routinesPRINCE2Use automation tools to simplify updates. knowledge quickly.Difficulty in measuring and improving flow

Exam tipChallenge – with limited time and no manual allowed, revision must be top of your exam preparation plan.: Teams experience difficulties when trying to measure and improve their workflow efficiency.

RevisionSolution

Exam practice:

Exam revision is important.

The most common revision method is to practice those exam questions! As the questions are compiled from a limited question bank, the more practice questions you attempt, the more prepared you will be. The Set up crucial metrics including cycle time and throughput to measure Kanban performancePRINCE2 examImplement cumulative flow diagrams as part of your visual analytics tools board provides 2 sample exam papers to PRINCE2 Accredited Training Organisations, so if you have studied using an accredited training course, these should be provided to you.Conduct regular retrospectives to identify improvement areas.

In addition, Teams that anticipate problems and implement precise solutions will navigate their Kanban journey successfully to utilise this Knowledge Trainproject management approach has developed a further ‘s full potential.

, a practice or a process

Paraphrasing helps your exam revision and preparation.

Exam timingKanban

There are three things to keep in mind during the exam – timing, question complexity and making sure to answer every question. and Scrum. Kanban aims to maintain continuous flow and restrict work in progress whereas

Timing is the most important aspect to keep in mind. The exam consists of 60 questions, and there are 60 minutes to answer them. This only allows 1 minute per question. When faced with this small timeframe, it’s best to have a good strategy during the exam which maximizes your chances of scoring highly. The strategy we recommend is the Scrumthree-pass approach runs on fixed sprints with established roles and ceremonies..How do I choose the right WIP limits for my team?

The three-pass approachEstablish your starting point by setting a conservative estimate that matches the capacity of your team. Monitor workflow and adjust limits as needed. Work towards maintaining a WIP threshold that avoids bottlenecks yet keeps team members engaged.

Pass 1Can Kanban be used for non-software development projects?
Go through the entire question paper from start to finish and answer those questions which you feel confident about which only take a few seconds to answer. Mark your answer and leave any questions you are unsure about. Often at the end of this first pass, you might only have spent 15-20 minutes and possibly answered 30-40% of the questions.Absolutely. The principles of Kanban demonstrate broad adaptability across multiple fields such as marketing, healthcare, and manufacturing. The main goal is to customise the system according to your unique workflow requirements.

Pass 2What are the essential metrics to track in a Kanban system?
Go back to the start and read through the unanswered questions, this time spending 10-15 seconds reading each one. If you don’t understand what it is asking you, read it one more time. If you think you know the answer, mark your answer, otherwise skip to the next unanswered question.Key metrics include:

At the end of this pass you will only be left with those questions which take a long time to answer, or you are still not sure about.Cycle Time

Pass 3Lead Time
Go back to the start and re-read the remaining questions which you haven’t yet answered. When answering a question, by a process of elimination, discount those options which you think are definitely wrong. If you do this, you can often eliminate 2 options straightaway which will leave you with 2 options left to choose from. Read the question and the 2 remaining options one more time and if you really cannot decide guess.Throughput

After completing pass 3 you should have answered all questions. Whatever you do, make sure that one option has been selected for all 60 questions in the exam.Work in Progress (WIP)

Three pass approach to sitting your exam.

  • Apply the Cumulative Flow.three-pass approachThe collected data from these metrics offer valuable information regarding operational efficiency and productivity while highlighting potential areas for development. to maximize your chances of passing.How often should we review and adjust our Kanban board?
  • Do Conduct daily stand-ups for quick updates. Schedule weekly evaluation sessions to examine finished tasks and determine next priorities. Monthly retrospectives allow teams to assess system performance and implement necessary changes.NOTIs it necessary to use specialised software for Kanban project management? spend too long on complex questions – skip them and answer them last.Specialised software provides better visualisation and analysis of data but remains an optional tool. Co-located teams can achieve effective project management with physical boards that utilise sticky notes. Remote teams and complex projects increase the usefulness of digital tools.
  • Don’t over-analyze questions.How can I convince my team to adopt Kanban methodology?
  • Think carefully before changing answers. Your initial response is often correct.Show your team how Kanban improves workflow visibility and enhances project flexibility. Initiate Kanban implementation through a limited pilot project to show its positive results. Engage your team throughout the implementation process while addressing concerns directly as they arise.
  • Only select one option for each question and ensure you have filled in your answers correctly.What are the potential drawbacks of using Kanban?

Preparing well, knowing what to expect and thoroughly understanding the Potential challenges include:PRINCE2 methodologyResistance to change, will all greatly improve your chances of success. Also, statistics show that high-scorers in the Foundation exam will have a better chance at getting a high score in Practitioner, which is certainly something to keep in mind.Difficulty in setting appropriate WIP limits

Exam daySome teams experience motivation through the absence of timeboxing constraints

On the day of the exam, you must be prepared by having the following:Work may remain stagnant if there isn’t effective management.

Things you need on exam day.

  • Photo IDCan Kanban be scaled for large projects or organisations? (such as a passport or driving license) otherwise you Portfolio Kanbancannot and the sit the exam.Flight Levels
  • Computer approach enable the scaling of Kanban systems. Multiple teams and organisational levels can use Kanban principles through these methods. with internet access, webcam, audio with micHow does Kanban support continuous improvement in project management?
  • Quiet room Kanban promotes continuous improvement through:with anVisualisation of workflow bottlenecks empty desk Regular review meetings– you cannot have any papers or books on the tableMetrics-driven decision making
  • WaterEncouragement of incremental changes. – ensure you have water to drink during the exam. Studies show that students who drink water during exams, on average score 4.8% higher marks than students who don’t drink water. Ongoing refinement enables teams to maintain steady improvements in their processes and productivity.[1]Subscribe to our exclusive offers and promotions

Exam tip – your brain needs watering so don’t forget to bring water to the exam!Subscribe now

Pre-exam

Just prior to the examination starting, the exam proctor will ask you to show your photo ID, turn your camera 360 degrees to show the room, and will read out the instructions and rules for the exam.

During the exam{"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"ImageObject","contentUrl":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/training-courses/kanban-board-example.webp","description":" A task card displaying Title, Description, Due date, and Assignee, each with corresponding icons.","license":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/license","acquireLicensePage":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/license","creditText":"Knowledge Train","uploadDate":"2024-10-27T09:00:20.000Z","copyrightNotice":"© 2024 Knowledge Train Limited. All rights reserved.","creator":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Knowledge Train","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk"}}

If English is not your first language you will automatically get 25% extra time – 75 minutes instead of 60!

Similarly, you may find completing the exam difficult if you have dyslexia or another medical condition. To get the extra time, you must contact PeopleCert before the exam with a report from your doctor or other medical professional proving your condition. This will then get approved by PeopleCert and you will be awarded extra time.{"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"ImageObject","contentUrl":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/training-courses/kanban-task-card-example.webp","description":"A task card displaying Title, Description, Due date, and Assignee, each with corresponding icons.","license":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/license","acquireLicensePage":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/license","creditText":"Knowledge Train","uploadDate":"2024-10-27T09:00:20.000Z","copyrightNotice":"© 2024 Knowledge Train Limited. All rights reserved.","creator":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Knowledge Train","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk"}}

If you fail the exam, you can re-take it at a later date, although you will need to pay the exam fee again.

At the end of the exam, you will not be able to mark any more answers. If you finish the exam early you can submit your answers.{"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"ImageObject","contentUrl":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/training-courses/physical-and-digital-kanban-board.webp","description":"Comparison of physical and digital Kanban boards with tasks under To Do, Doing, and Done columns.","license":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/license","acquireLicensePage":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/license","creditText":"Knowledge Train","uploadDate":"2024-10-27T09:00:20.000Z","copyrightNotice":"© 2024 Knowledge Train Limited. All rights reserved.","creator":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Knowledge Train","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk"}}

You will receive your exam result on screen as soon as the examination is over. You will receive confirmation by email shortly afterwards.

[1] Pawson, C. (2004, April). Bring water into exams to improve your grade. http://www.uel.ac.uk/news/press-releases/2012/04/waterexams.htm

Infographic

Infographic about the PRINCE 2 Foundation exam.