Last updated on Mar 2, 2024

You want to learn project management. How do you find the best ways to learn?

Project management is a valuable skill for any leader who wants to plan, execute, and deliver successful projects. Whether you are managing a small team, a complex initiative, or a personal goal, project management can help you achieve your objectives efficiently and effectively. But how do you learn project management? There are many ways to learn, but not all of them are equally suitable for your needs, preferences, and budget. In this article, we will explore some of the best ways to learn project management and how to choose the right one for you.

1 Assess your current level

Before you start learning project management, you need to assess your current level of knowledge and skills. This will help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, and set realistic and specific learning goals. You can use online self-assessments, quizzes, or feedback from peers or mentors to evaluate your current level. You can also compare your level to the standards and competencies defined by professional associations, such as the Project Management Institute (PMI) or the International Project Management Association (IPMA).

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Rajdeep D.
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To find the best ways to learn project management, start by assessing your learning style. Explore resources like online courses on platforms like Coursera or LinkedIn Learning, which offer structured lessons. Consider joining project management communities or forums to learn from others' experiences. Reading books by renowned project managers like "The Lean Startup" by Eric Ries or "The Phoenix Project" by Gene Kim can provide valuable insights. Additionally, seek mentorship or coaching from experienced project managers to gain practical knowledge. Remember, hands-on experience through internships or volunteering for projects is invaluable. Tailor your approach to suit your learning preferences and goals.

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George Psomakakis

Experienced General Manager ✔ Executive Director ✔ Executive Consultant │ Cross-Functional Team Leader │ Peak Performer
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Project management is a crucial skill for business owners and professionals alike. It involves planning, executing, and monitoring tasks to achieve specific goals. Here are two proven methods to learn project management: 1. Learn by doing (the hard way). Read project management guides. Learn from mistakes, adapt, and refine your approach. Network with other project managers. 2. Take the mastering digital project management course (the easier but paid way). Enroll in a structured course that covers essential project management concepts, methodologies, and practical skills. This paid option provides a more guided and efficient learning experience, allowing you to acquire knowledge and apply it directly to your projects.

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2 Choose your learning format

Once you have assessed your current level, you need to choose your learning format. There are many options available, such as online courses, books, podcasts, webinars, workshops, or mentoring programs. Each format has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on your learning style, availability, and budget. For example, online courses are convenient, flexible, and affordable, but they may lack interaction and feedback. Books are rich in information, but they may be outdated or too theoretical. Podcasts are engaging and accessible, but they may not cover all the topics you need. Webinars are interactive and practical, but they may require registration and scheduling. Workshops are immersive and hands-on, but they may be expensive and time-consuming. Mentoring programs are personalized and supportive, but they may be hard to find and match.

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3 Select your learning resources

After you have chosen your learning format, you need to select your learning resources. There are many resources available, but not all of them are equally reliable, relevant, and effective. You need to consider the quality, credibility, and alignment of the resources you use. You can use online reviews, ratings, recommendations, or samples to evaluate the quality of the resources. You can also check the credentials, experience, and reputation of the authors, instructors, or mentors who create or deliver the resources. Moreover, you need to ensure that the resources align with your learning goals, your industry, and your project management methodology.

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Pallab Datta

Vice President & Head HR | LinkedIn Top Voice | Generative AI Certified | NLP Expert | International Certified Career Coach | Thomas DISC Assessor | 101 Fabulous HR Leaders - WHRDC | HR Professional of the Year - WHRDC
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To learn project management effectively, start by researching reputable online courses, books, and resources. Consider joining professional associations or forums related to project management for networking and learning opportunities. Seek mentorship from experienced project managers and participate in workshops or seminars. Hands-on experience through internships or volunteer opportunities can provide valuable practical skills. Additionally, leveraging online platforms like LinkedIn Learning or Coursera for structured courses can offer flexibility and tailored learning paths. Regular practice and application of project management principles in real-life projects will solidify understanding and proficiency in the field.

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Jennifer Ambrose, M.Ed

Experienced Talent Development Leader | Learning Experience Designer | Professional Coach
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Look for reputable online courses, books, and tutorials. Explore platforms like Coursera, edX, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning. Read reviews and testimonials from other learners.

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4 Plan your learning schedule

Once you have selected your learning resources, you need to plan your learning schedule. This will help you organize your time, prioritize your tasks, and track your progress. You need to consider the duration, frequency, and intensity of your learning sessions. You also need to balance your learning with your other commitments, such as work, family, or hobbies. You can use online tools, apps, or calendars to plan your learning schedule. You can also set milestones, deadlines, and reminders to keep yourself motivated and accountable.

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5 Apply your learning to practice

Once you have planned your learning schedule, you need to apply your learning to practice. This will help you reinforce your knowledge, develop your skills, and demonstrate your competence. You need to look for opportunities to apply what you learn to real or simulated projects, either at work, at home, or in your community. You can also seek feedback, guidance, or support from others, such as colleagues, managers, clients, or mentors. Additionally, you need to reflect on your learning outcomes, challenges, and achievements, and identify areas for improvement or further learning.

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Paula Ghelli Dantas

Sales Executive | Career Mentor & Coach | Ex-IBM, Salesforce & Workday.
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Participate in real projects or simulations so you can apply your learning by getting hands-on experience with real projects or using project management simulations. Practical application reinforces theoretical knowledge and allows you to develop problem-solving skills in a controlled environment.

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6 Update your learning regularly

Once you have applied your learning to practice, you need to update your learning regularly. This will help you keep up with the latest trends, best practices, and innovations in project management. You need to monitor the changes and developments in your industry, your organization, and your profession. You also need to review and revise your learning goals, format, resources, and schedule, according to your needs, preferences, and budget. Furthermore, you need to celebrate your learning successes, share your learning insights, and network with other project management learners and professionals.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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George Psomakakis

Experienced General Manager ✔ Executive Director ✔ Executive Consultant │ Cross-Functional Team Leader │ Peak Performer
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Remember that project management methodologies vary (such as Agile, Scrum, Waterfall, and Kanban), so choose the right approach for your specific project. Whether you opt for the hard way or the easier path, continuous learning, and practical application are key to mastering project management.

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Salman Rasheed

Optimist | Empathetic | Passionate | Innovator | Learner | Mentor | MBA | PGDBS-HRD, Canada | CHRP |
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One of the best ways to learn project management is through a combination of formal education, practical experience, and ongoing professional development. Pursuing courses or certifications such as PMP (Project Management Professional) or PRINCE2 can provide a solid foundation in project management principles and practices. Additionally, gaining hands-on experience by working on real projects, whether through internships, volunteer opportunities, or entry-level positions, is invaluable for honing your skills. Continuous learning through books, online resources, workshops, and mentorship can further enhance your knowledge and expertise in project management techniques, tools, and strategies.

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Krystal Shimmel MHA, BSCLS (ASCP)cm

Healthcare/Leadership Consultant at Shimmel Operational Solutions, LLC
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Continuous growth, development, and improvement. There are so many resources available to help one develop their knowledge in the area of their interest. However, it is extremely important to understand that without application you have not developed those skills at all. You are only able to take a test or recite knowledge from someone else's understanding. You must apply the skills you learn to actively participate in developing and improving. It is only then that you can speak wisdom about the topic and consider this new area an area of expertise. Never stop learning and growing!

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Paula Ghelli Dantas

Sales Executive | Career Mentor & Coach | Ex-IBM, Salesforce & Workday.
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Engage with a Mentor or Coach and seek guidance from experienced project managers who can provide personalized insights and advice. A mentor or coach can share real-world experiences, offer valuable feedback, and help navigate challenges that arise during your learning journey.

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You want to learn project management. How do you find the best ways to learn?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Assess your current level

2 Choose your learning format

3 Select your learning resources

4 Plan your learning schedule

5 Apply your learning to practice

6 Update your learning regularly

7 Here’s what else to consider

Leadership Development

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You want to learn project management. How do you find the best ways to learn?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Assess your current level

2 Choose your learning format

3 Select your learning resources

4 Plan your learning schedule

5 Apply your learning to practice

6 Update your learning regularly

7 Here’s what else to consider

Leadership Development

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

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