Choosing the right exam certification prep material can be the difference between passing the PMP exam and starting over. With so many books, courses, and practice tools, it helps to know whether one book can carry your preparation. This review breaks down Rita Mulcahy's PMP Exam Prep: Rita's Course in a Book for Passing the PMP Exam, a trade paperback listed at USD 12.49.
Quick verdict
For someone studying on their own, this book offers a structured, self-paced route through PMP exam content. The "Course in a Book" concept means you get lessons and explanations in a logical sequence, not just a stack of practice questions. At USD 12.49, it delivers a lot of preparation material for a modest price.
Who it suits
This is a good fit if you prefer working from a physical book and want a complete study system. The trade paperback is easy to carry and mark up. It also suits learners who want one authoritative resource rather than jumping between many apps and websites. If you are someone who needs instructor-led training or interactive media, this will not replace that.
What stands out
Rita Mulcahy's PMP Exam Prep: Rita's Course in a Book for Passing the PMP Exam
The main draw is the title itself: "Rita's Course in a Book." That is not just marketing; it describes a book that walks through the exam topics in a teaching order. The 7th edition, with ISBN 9781932735413, is the specific version on offer. Another standout is the co-author, Laurie Diethelm, who brings a second voice to the instruction. Then there's the price. At USD 12.49, you are getting a substantial prep book for a low outlay. The Very Good condition means it is clearly a used copy, but fully serviceable for study.
Meaningful trade-offs
The biggest trade-off is the format. This is a physical trade paperback, so there is no searchable text, no syncing across devices, and no interactive quizzes baked in. If you do all your studying on a tablet, this may not fit your workflow. Also, the listing states Very Good condition; if you want a brand-new copy with a pristine cover, you will be adjusting your expectations. And because this is the 7th edition, you are getting that specific edition and no other.
Bottom line
Rita Mulcahy's PMP Exam Prep is a solid choice if you want a structured, comprehensive exam certification prep book in print and you are comfortable with a pre-owned copy. The combination of the Course in a Book format and the 7th edition content makes it a practical option for self-directed PMP candidates.
