5 PRINCE2 myths you might still believe

By Sarah Morgan


PRINCE2 is the most popular project management certification in the world, but it’s not immune to misconceptions and myths. It’s crucial that you know the facts – believe the myths and you might miss out on the career boost you need.

How much do you really know about PRINCE2? Here are our top 5 PRINCE2 myths you might still believe:


Myth #1 - You have to write an essay for the PRINCE2 Foundation exam

Timed essays can be a nerve-wracking experience - often feeling like a test of endurance rather than knowledge.

You might be relieved to learn that several years ago the PRINCE2 Foundation dropped its essay style examination in favour of a multiple-choice test. Plus, even if you originally passed the essay style Foundation exam and are attempting a recertification, you will instead take the multiple choice examination.

However, it’s worth noting that the PRINCE2 Practitioner exam is not multiple-choice and instead consists of eight 10 mark questions.

The current PRINCE2 certification exams are structured as follows:

PRINCE2 2009 Foundation Exam
Multiple choice format
60 minutes duration
75 questions
5 trial questions not counted in score
35 of 70 (50%) marks required to pass

PRINCE2 2009 Practitioner Exam
Open-book examination
8 x 10 mark questions
44 of 80 (55%) marks required to pass
2.5 hours


Myth #2 - PRINCE2 is only for professionals in the IT industry

PRINCE2 is not just applicable to the IT industry. The opposite is true: PRINCE2 is a generic project management methodology that can be applied to any project across any industry.

In fact, this adaptable and flexible approach is a major contributor to PRINCE2’s global popularity. With over 1 million exams taken in over 150 countries, a huge number of industries are clearly taking advantage of the PRINCE2 methodology.

The myth that PRINCE2 only applies to IT likely originates from the first use of the methodology. Originally developed as ‘PRINCE’ in the 1980’s to support the UK Government’s IT projects, its potential was soon realised. As a result, in 1996, the generic and adaptable PRINCE2 we know today was introduced.

Myth #3 - PRINCE2 is only useful for project managers looking for a job

You’ll find a large number of project manager job adverts specifying the need for candidates to possess the PRINCE2. The notion that the PRINCE2 certification is just a means of finding employment is held by some of the more cynical.

Yoel / morgueFile

While it is true that the PRINCE2 will help qualify you for project management jobs, this is by no means the only benefit of the certification. The skills you learn from PRINCE2 will improve your projects, save your organisation money and cut project overrun.

Find out about the benefits of PRINCE2 (and how to convince your manager to pay for it!) in this blog post.


Myth #4 - You need a lifetime of project management experience to take a PRINCE2 course

There are no solid prerequisites to attend a course and pass the PRINCE2 Foundation exam. This certification is open to everyone and you don’t need any prior qualifications or real world experience.

Whether you’re a project management professional, or are looking for a change of career, there’s nothing stopping you from getting the PRINCE2 Foundation certification. Though, as you might expect, you must have passed the PRINCE2 Foundation exam to take on the Practitioner.

There’s nothing stopping you from getting both PRINCE2 certifications, but to make the most of your new certs, you’re going to also need some solid project management experience. The PRINCE2 teaches you a method but it doesn’t cover the real world skills you’ll need to become a successful project manager. The best way to get these skills is through experience.


Myth #5 - PRINCE2 takes too much time

PRINCE2 Foundation & Practitioner courses are generally short (4-5 days) and well worth the investment.

However, for some a five day course is simply too much commitment; you might not be in a position to sacrifice an entire working week (and your manager might not appreciate it either!)

There are even faster routes to getting your PRINCE2 certification. With accelerated learning, you could be both Foundation and Practitioner PRINCE2 certified in only three days. Or attend a weekend course and you’ll only be away from the office for one day.


For more information on PRINCE2 take a look at the Axelos website. Or to get PRINCE2 Foundation & Practitioner certified in just three days, visit our site.


Related Articles:

• How to convince your manager to pay for PRINCE2 Training
• We asked our Project Management instructor your burning PMP questions
• PRINCE2 vs. PMP - which certification should you choose?

About the Author:        
Sarah writes for Firebrand Training on a number of IT related topics. This includes exams, training, certification trends, project management, certification, careers advice and the industry itself. Sarah has 11 years of experience in the IT industry.