PDD PASS!!!
Hello All,
After 6 months of studying, I am thrilled to share that I’ve passed all of my AREs. It’s such a HUGE relief!
Today, I received my likely pass for PDD, which was my final exam. While I passed all my exams on the first attempt, PDD proved to be a challenge, making this success particularly sweet.
Although many others have already provided excellent strategies, I wanted to contribute a few personal insights based on my experience:
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The exams are fair and focus on relevant content.
They are designed to test your understanding thoroughly and adequately. -
Follow the ARE Handbook closely.
If you dedicate time to familiarize yourself with the content outlined in the handbook, you will pass! Remember, the exams test for Minimal Competence. You don’t need to know everything—just the essentials to demonstrate competence. -
Amber Book is invaluable, but not sufficient on its own.
While I found Amber Book indispensable for PDD, I still failed the first time (by just one question, apparently). A broader range of resources, textbooks, and programs such as Claire and Kaplan, proved crucial. -
Don’t underestimate reading comprehension.
While double-checking my answers, I often caught mistakes simply by rereading the question carefully. Pay close attention to keywords like Max, Min, Most, Least, or instructions like Name 3, 4, 5 items. -
Take care of yourself before the exam.
During my first attempt, I felt rushed and fatigued throughout. This time, I ensured I was well-rested, nourished, and focused. I used only 15 minutes of break time and still finished the exam with time to spare. -
Approach case studies with a clear, methodical mindset.
Don’t overthink or overcomplicate them. The answers are within reach—you just need to approach them logically and hunt them down.
To anyone preparing for their exams: keep going! It’s a challenging journey, but the reward at the end is worth it.
Best of luck to everyone still working toward their goals!
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Congratulation Nicolas.
I took my exam last week and Passed. I agree with all the things you said.
When I studied the books I thought I remembered most topics, because I noted all the things I felt were important. But teaching it to someone helps a lot in retaining the concepts learnt. My poor husband now he knows more than he needs to about architecture. I then Subscribed to Black spectacles. I found the practice tests very useful. They had it exactly like the NCARB format which helped practice the tool and other things available.
Try to study with a partner and explain stuff. And during test yes concentrate on the key words like Nicolas said. that is where you will go wrong even on a thing you are 100% good at. the other thing to keep checking is the units if all units given in a problem apply or need conversion.
Have my PPD scheduled this Thursday. Hope I will have the same luck then also.
All the best to all of you preparing and wish me luck too.
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