PCM was difficult, prepare properly
Took the PCM exam last Friday. I prepared for 6 weeks, using the ARE Exam prep course as a guide, used misc. other sources to supplement (AHPP, misc YouTube’s, AIA docs., etc). I was unable to use NCARB practice exams, they were not working properly, although I did use ARE Exam Prep. practice test and quizzes. While these were adequate, I don’t feel they prepared me enough for the real thing. In the end, I went in feeling prepared, but ultimately came out knowing I had been underprepared. This exam digs deeper with lengthy questions, really challenging your analytical skills. In spite of prior commentary that you just need a general understanding, I found that not true. Time ran out and I ultimately failed this one on the first try. (Sidebar: I’ve been in the industry for 30 years, and work in a two person firm with much exposure to the inner workings of the business. And I’ve worked in all types of offices and sizes).
Takeaway…dig deeper than you think you will need to, use the NCARB prep tests, learn how to properly manage your time. I plan to jump right into Project Management, the retake this one.
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So glad I'm not alone in feeling this way! I took PcM on 3/3 and somehow managed to pass, but I was shocked at how difficult it was. This was my third exam and for my first two, CE and PjM, I felt like the practice exams were more difficult than the real thing; I had the exact opposite impression from PcM! I took both Black Spectacles and NCARB practice tests in preparation for all my exams so far. You must know your B101 and C401 contracts like the back of your hand, pros/cons and reasons for selecting many different types of business structures, and be VERY comfortable with ALL the accounting formulas and relationships between the terms: NOR, overhead & break-even rates, net multiplier, etc. etc.
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Hi James,
It is a difficult exam. The pass rate is 50%! I cringe when I hear some folks say they are taking it as a first exam.
AHPP is your best resource, but firm management is something that your typical intern isn't exposed to in practice. I echo Marie's list of what to study.
Rebekka O'Melia, R.A., NCARB, B. Arch, M. Ed, NOMA, Step UP ARE 5.0 Courses
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