California Supplemental Exam 2024

March 10, 2024 16:46

Hi guys, I just finished the CSE and here is my advice (which is all listed in the test plan published by CAB).

1. All the test prep material is terribly out of date.

2. As of March 2024 there are no longer graphic sections on the test. The test is now 130 multiple choice questions. Despite what the screen may tell you.

3. Go deeper into topics specific to California; CBC chapters 7A, 11A, 11B, CalGreen, and the Energy Code. What are the triggers and exceptions for new construction, alterations, and additions?

5. Know the A201 and B101.

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8 comments

Garret Feasel, AIA March 13, 2024 18:32

I would also add to know roles and responsibilities of the owner, contractor and architect which is in the A201 general conditions but really pay attention to those specifically. CalGreen is a big one as well.

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Jad Ismail March 20, 2024 06:20

Thanks for the update! You mention this information is listed in CAB's test plan...can you direct me to where you see it? It looks like the handbook listed on their website still says 100 multiple test questions and 2 project scenarios.

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Robert Ward March 20, 2024 15:13

the test I took had 130 multiple choice questions in a single section. there was no graphics handout or questions. the PSI staff told me it had just been changed that week according to an email they got from CAB.

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Dustin Goffron April 25, 2024 22:38

I wonder if the exam being 130 questions - if only 100 of those questions counted.

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Robert Ward April 26, 2024 03:54

yes that is correct. only 100 are counted

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Daniel Sliter May 23, 2024 11:32

How much of the test would you estimate is non-specific to California or a rehash of what was in the AREs?

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Rachel Tan October 22, 2024 18:06

HI Robert - Do you mind sharing your study strategy for the test and how long you studied for? Esp considering the out of date materials. Would be great to have some input on this - I'm just about to start studying for CSE.

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Robert Ward October 22, 2024 18:35

I studied for about 4-5 months. At that time I used the Whole Enchilada exam prep, but now I would use Amber Book CSE course. Every day I did 1 lesson, just grinding it out day after day. It was quite boring and painful. You should be able from just memory starting with a blank sheet of paper to diagram out the entire flow chart of all the California regulatory agencies, what they control, and how a permit is obtained. There was a lot of stuff on CalGreen and Energy Code too.

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