PA Pass at 3rd try

PA was my first exam in the 5.0 version, for this 3rd try, since I'm working from home I have more time available so I studied for about 4 months 3-4 hours a day, 5-6 days a week, that made a difference from the previous 2 times, when I had time to study only on weekends. My main recommendation is you have to study everyday, not only on weekends, second recommendation is to listen to these podcasts, really help you understand the concept and strategy behind the ARE: https://architectexamprep.com/architect-exam-prep-podcast/.

I used the following materials:

You Tube videos from Black spectacles

Hyperfine assignments

Site Planning and Design Handbook

Problem Seeking

Standard for the Treatment of Historic Building

The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice

PPI ARE 5.0 Exam Review

LEED V4.1 BC+C

ANSI.A117.1.2009

2015 International Building Code ( Read it, understand it and learn how to use it)

Lastly, I used the strategy of going thru the Case Studies first, it worked for me but I think is because I had taken this test before, however I almost run out of time for the rest of the questions, so I do not recommend that strategy. I believe is better to go thru the multiple choice questions as fast as possible, leave at least 1 to 1.5 Hr. available for the case studies, take the break to clear your mind and then go to the case studies. Remember each question is valid 1 point, no matter what.

Good luck!

Rachel North October 20, 2020 01:19

Hey Deborah! Congrats on passing PA, I am preparing to double back and try again later this year. For Hyperfine did you chose to purchase the PA course or just use the free samples? I am feeling like it may be a good option for me as it gives more of a material based guide rather than practice tests. My experience with PA was unlike my studies and am just looking for what direction to go in, I wrote about it here: https://are5community.ncarb.org/hc/en-us/community/posts/360052006493-PA-Exam-Resource-Confusion

Thank you! Best of luck on the next!

Debbie Weitzman Weitzman October 20, 2020 01:25

Hi Rachel definitely buy the Hiperfine courses and read all the material that I listed. Also listen to the podcasts. Good luck! I’m going for PPD now!

Devina Parbhoo February 01, 2021 06:35

Congrats on the pass!

If anyone else is looking for study advice for the PA exam, I made a YouTube video about how I was able to pass the exam. I cover the best resources to study from and a sample study schedule. Feel free to check it out here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HPKOq9rqgMg

I will also be releasing a new video every week, so be sure to subscribe so you don't miss any future videos!

PA Pass at 3rd try

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