I'm glad to say I passed the PMP exam yesterday on my first try.
Here are the key things that helped me on this effort.
In brief: Read the PMBOK and Head First PMP, come to understand EVM, Use a study coach program, take all of the practice tests you
can!! Especially the 4 hour 200 question versions.
Study Coach - I studied for this on my own. No crash courses. I struggled on to create a study schedule and plan. I had already read the PMBOK and Head First Book but didn't feel prepared. I then signed up for the
PM Study Coach. This was a GREAT help. Not only do they give you a schedule, but many videos and extra material. You get many emails to keep you going and on track...