PPD Fail first try
Hi I would like know any tips on how I can improve and pass the PPD exam. I can say that I've learned a lot studying for this so far.
I studied very thoroughly I used black spectacles, weare, arequestions, and some other material I have. Also I've used the books in the reference and read several of those. I failed 4 sections even though the multiple choice I thought I did well on. What are ways to study better for this exam as well as PDD and PA? I do feel that some questions I had could've been 50/50 maybe make sure I understand concepts and apply them even more?
Does someone have any study tips for these design exams? Also any tips of improving on case studies I did find some of these to be tricky. I would like to know how someone who passed studied for design integration as well as MEP and structural, also site analysis. Which I did well on my practice questions but seems I have to do better at scenarios.
I've studied to understand the concepts of all of the parts listed in the ARE Handbook.
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Hi Sergio,
Sorry about the struggle. PPD is the hardest exam in my opinion. Did you get a chance to read my post about PPD? If not, I am dropping the link here: https://arequestions.com/how-did-i-finally-pass-ppd-the-loose-cannon/
With all due respect to all content creators and writers, I disagree with the notion that only one book or practice material (including my own material) is enough to pass these exams. It may be enough for a few people with certain backgrounds but unfortunately, it doesn't apply to many. I wish it did. But, if it did, the pass rates wouldn't be around 40 percent for this exam right..?
I would recommend first reading the books recommended by NCARB until you really digest the content. Take notes and study them rigorously. Discuss issues with your study buddies (find some, highly recommended). This will prevent you from being "passively" accompanying your own study process. You have to find some active learning tools that work for you. I tried to explain all of these and more in the blog post. Please take a look.
Hope it helps.
Elif
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Yeah I've just read it and I'm gonna review your blog again.
I totally agree with how your explaining this and it helps to read the books to understand and digest the knowledge with other content as well, because since there's so much content I don't think only 1 material will do all of that, like you said. Yeah that's what I do and I'll keep doing also with online ARE communities. These tips help a lot thanks Elif.
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I only used the Amber Book, with a few added bits of side material. I failed PPD twice but finally pasted it yesterday. I felt that Amber book got me really close. What let me down was my own studying. I used the Black Spectacles Practice exams for 4 of the 6 divisions. They are great, as I feel that some of their questions are so poorly written it really does help you with the exams. They do have some really odd code questions in their exams that I feel are impossible to know but I did get one really unusual code question in my exam yesterday. Thankfully the case study had the ADA guidelines so I could just look up the answer. The first time I did the exam I didn't know to check the case studies to see what info they gaee you for other questions in the exam. My knowledge of codes is so bad but Archicorner does a great job of explain stuff. I would recommend watching his videos if you need code help. The Amber book has some free video's online here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uYfcryIMLvw&t=1394s I would watch all of the ones that relate to PPD. Once I got my knowledge of codes and structures up to scratch with the rest of what I learned, I breezed through yesterday exam. Building Construction illustrated is also another good resource.
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Check out the ARE tab to see notes on different building systems formatted graphically on 8.5x11 sheets
Architecture Exam Notes - Arc Infographics
Test taking was one of my biggest weaknesses but after taking and failing the architecture exams a few times, my perspective on the subject changed. I learned that everyone needs to find their approach to digesting the information, and I found that the best way for me is an organized and graphical representation of the material.
While studying for PPD and PDD, I created detailed diagrammatic notes on the contents of the exam using multiple sources including, but not limited to, Amber book, David Doucette's ARE Prep, Building Construction Illustrated, Building Code Illustrated, Architect's Studio Companion, Heating, Cooling, Lighting, Plumbing, Electricity, Acoustics and more.
To digest and organize the information, I found that graphically translating the material would connect the information both visually and mentally. My memory no longer needed to shuffle all the information coming through, but instead was able to construct the connections between each concept.
My classmates found my notes extremely beneficial once some knowledge was already established regarding the content of the exam. It helped teach, double check, and reinforce their knowledge on multiple subjects as they studied through the months, and was a well-rounded resource to review prior to taking the exam. I spent months organizing and reorganizing these notes, not only for my benefit, but for those who are in the same boat, trying to obtain their architecture license.
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Sergio,
Don't give up! You can do it!
In my opinion, PPD and PDD are the most difficult exams so don't get discouraged. I made a YouTube channel to help others navigate the resources for these exams.
The videos cover all of the study materials and a sample study schedule I used in order to pass the exam in two months. Check out the PPD video below and be sure to Subscribe so you don't miss out on any future videos! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kOl17gIUWCM
Devina | Exam Coach
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