Which Ballast / PPI Book to Buy? Study Questions or Mock Exams?
I'm trying to figure out the specific differences between these two books. Both cost $80 - $90 on their own, and I don't know which would be a more valuable resource in preparing for each exam. Their product descriptions don't provide much of any insight, not to mention that there's a third book titled Exam Review.
Appreciate any insight!
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Update #1...
Desk Crits: AN Insider's Guide to the ARE 5.0 includes a table of recommended resources. In it, the Ballast mock exams are listed, with the practice problems listed as "optional." For that reason, I went ahead with buying only the mock exams book.
Side note is that they mention the Ballast mock exams are especially difficult, so don't get too down if you don't do well.
Update #2...
To say I'm disappointed in the Ballast mock exam would be an understatement. I only did the PcM test, but have since read similar experiences from others. Here's a rundown:
- Many questions had nothing to do with the subject matter actually being tested
- Most questions were overly vague, where one could argue over what answer was correct
- Many questions were more-so a test on memorization, instead of a test on applying knowledge to the profession of architecture
- Several questions related to the AXP process (very strange)
- Questions were strictly multiple choice - unlike the exam
- No questions related to financial calculations
- Case study questions based only on a few sentence summary of a scenario - nothing about RFPs or the application of utilizing multiple pieces of information
- Format of bubbling in answers on a single sheet (just like a scan-tron) and comparing them to a key at the end of the test was cumbersome
Scored a 45% on it, compared to around 70% using Black Spectacles and WeARE.
Long story short, I'm returning it. Don't waste your money.
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