Finally passed PDD (3rd attempt)

After a 4 year hiatus (due to mental health/pandemic) I finally passed this test.

To anyone who feels the overwhelmed by the test and has been struggling to attempt it again, you can do it!

I have struggled to get back into studying but sometimes signing up for the test can become the motivation you need. I work in CD and CA for projects at work so that did help me a bit. I prepared for the test by taking the Black Spectacles practice tests and reviewing the questions I got wrong and investigated the topic for each. This was KEY. You never know what random little topics will pop up on the test.

I also HATED sitting through such a long exam because of my ADD. I practiced building up a tolerance for sitting for a certain amount of time and taking a break no matter what. (Side note: I noticed that other people never took breaks and that seems really odd. Take your break ppl!!) I practiced doing the Case Studies first bc I am fresh and will to be patient reading through the prompts. This turned out to be a winning strategy for me as I ended up with EXTRA time to review questions I could still review! 

In terms of refreshing myself with big topics and things I don’t know (like lighting) I watched the free Amber Books YouTube videos. They were amazing and I’m so glad they exist. It’s hard to even find a starting point for things I don’t know. The videos visuals and the way things were verbally explained to me worked with the type of ADD I have. I was able to focus on the topic and retain the concept. That’s an important thing to have when going into a big test like PDD. I also made sure to review the master spec sections! Don’t sleep on this, it’s important to know the general purpose of each division.

I have one test left: PPD. I’ve signed up to take it in April. This will be my 5th attempt and is the one I have struggled with the most. I’m feeling more confident about my study strategy but I prefer to not be overconfident. I will keep trying until I pass.

Good luck to everyone out there who also struggles with tests. Find the right grove and go for it!