Architect Exam Prep: The ARE Podcast

In this episode, David and Eric focus on the ARE PDD (Project Development & Documentation) exam, framing it as the construction documents phase in contrast to PPD’s schematic design and PA’s programming. They emphasize that PDD is less about memorizing content and more about using judgment, coordination, and decision-making at a detailed scale, and while it’s often seen as the most technically...

David and Eric discuss how PPD fits into the ARE sequence, how it differs from other divisions (especially PDD ), and five key mindset/strategy tips for candidates. The main emphasis: PPD is about  integration and judgment , not memorizing formulas or hyper‑detailed systems data. Listen to the Audio Show Notes Candidates often see PPD as  “the big one”  and psych themselves out. Compared to exams...

David and Eric discuss five tips for passing the programming and analysis (PA) division of the Architect Registration Examination (ARE). They emphasize that PA is about evaluation, not design, and highlight the importance of using highlighting tools for long, wordy questions. They stress that programming focuses on constraints before opportunities, using codes and zoning as filters, and that econo...

This episode, “The Identity Shift,” is for ARE candidates who are close to finishing but feel stuck or suddenly full of doubt. David reframes that experience as a normal transition from student to licensed architect, where imposter syndrome, fear of passing, and completion anxiety are signals of change—not failure. Listen to the Audio Show Notes I. Why the Final Phase Feels Different Heaviness of...

This episode of the ARE podcast gives  five key tips  for passing the  ARE Construction & Evaluation (CE)  exam. The focus is on thinking like an architect under the  AIA contracts , emphasizing  standard of care, observation vs. construction, administrative procedures, question-reading strategy, and performance-focused closeout/post-occupancy work . Throughout, they stress judgment, restraint...

David discusses how to course correct after failing an ARE exam. He explains why one failed division shouldn’t create a negative narrative and reminds candidates that failure simply means retaking the exam. He also covers how to review the score report, keep momentum by scheduling the next exam about eight weeks out, and use practice exams to better understand the format. The focus is simple: adju...

In Episode 87 of the ARE Podcast, David and Eric  break down the five most important strategies for passing the Project Management (PjM) division and how to think like a project manager on exam day. We begin with discussing the top five tips for project management, focusing on the AIA Contracts B 101 and A 201, which outline the roles and responsibilities of the owner, architect, and contractor. W...

In this episode, David emphasizes the importance of scheduling the your first or next Architect Registration Examination (ARE) before feeling fully ready. He shares his personal experience, noting it took seven years to complete due to procrastination. He then highlights the psychological barriers, such as fear of failure and the desire to feel confident, that delay scheduling. Finally he advises...

In this episode, David and Eric discuss how to realistically interpret NCARB ARE score reports without overthinking them. They explain why content area percentages and “low” scores often look worse than they are, and how weighting and test design affect what the report really means. They also share healthier retake strategies, focusing on fuzzy topics, mindset, and holistic studying rather than ob...

In this episode, David introduces the new ARE Mentor format — short, direct Tuesday episodes focused on mindset, structure, and execution — alongside the ongoing ARE Technical episodes released on Fridays. Listen to the Audio Show Notes The core message: most candidates don’t struggle because they lack knowledge. They struggle because they lack structure. Studying only when motivated, cramming on...

In Episode 83 of the ARE Podcast, David and Eric  break down the five most important strategies for passing the Practice Management (PcM) division. We begin with a critical mindset shift: PcM is not about thinking like an employee. It’s about thinking like a principal. Many candidates miss questions because they answer from their personal job experience rather than from the perspective of a firm o...

If you’re studying for the ARE right now, this episode is for you. In this solo Tuesday episode, David shares why he’s resetting the ARE Podcast, what’s changing, and how this shift is designed to help you build clarity and consistency in your exam journey. Listen to the Audio Show Notes Why the Reset? The ARE Podcast began in 2014. There have been 81 episodes over 12 years. In 2025, only one epis...

In this episode, David and Eric break down what it really takes to pass the Architect Registration Exam (ARE) in 2026. They walk through the six ARE divisions, explain how to sequence exams for momentum, and outline a realistic study approach designed for busy professionals — not full-time students. This episode is about starting , building consistency, and treating the ARE like a professional pro...

In this podcast, we discuss the idea of Where’s Waldo and how we can better look for answers during the process of the ARE. Listen to the Audio Please Subscribe Receive automatic updates when you subscribe below! Please rate us on iTunes! If you enjoyed the show, please rate it on iTunes and write a review . It would really help us spread the word about the ARE Podcast. Thanks!

In this podcast, we discuss another frequently confusing and fuzzy topic, the RFP (Request For Proposal) process for both public and private projects. Listen to the Audio Please Subscribe Receive automatic updates when you subscribe below! Please rate us on iTunes! If you enjoyed the show, please rate it on iTunes and write a review . It would really help us spread the word about the ARE Podcast....

In this podcast, we discuss a frequently confusing and fuzzy topic, fire separation and the 4 types. Listen to the Audio Please Subscribe Receive automatic updates when you subscribe below! Please rate us on iTunes! If you enjoyed the show, please rate it on iTunes and write a review . It would really help us spread the word about the ARE Podcast. Thanks!

In this podcast, we discuss a frequent fuzzy topic, the difference between a control joint and an expansion joint. Listen to the Audio Please Subscribe Receive automatic updates when you subscribe below! Please rate us on iTunes! If you enjoyed the show, please rate it on iTunes and write a review . It would really help us spread the word about the ARE Podcast. Thanks!

In this podcast, we discuss whether nuclear energy is making a comeback and the pros and cons of this carbon free energy source .  Listen to the Audio Please Subscribe Receive automatic updates when you subscribe below! Please rate us on iTunes! If you enjoyed the show, please rate it on iTunes and write a review . It would really help us spread the word about the ARE Podcast. Thanks!

In this podcast, we discuss a frequent fuzzy topic, albedo . Listen in as we discuss what albedo is and how best understand it and apply it in our practice as well as taking the ARE.  Listen to the Audio Please Subscribe Receive automatic updates when you subscribe below! Please rate us on iTunes! If you enjoyed the show, please rate it on iTunes and write a review . It would really help us spread...

In this podcast, we discuss the Stockdale Paradox which is a concept that involves  having faith in the ability to prevail while also facing the harsh realities of the present and how this applies to our mindset during our ARE journey. Listen to the Audio Please Subscribe Receive automatic updates when you subscribe below! Please rate us on iTunes! If you enjoyed the show, please rate it on iTunes...

In this podcast, we introduce what we mean by a “fuzzy topic” and Plan Efficiency as our first of several planned Fuzzy Topic podcasts. Listen to the Audio Please Subscribe Receive automatic updates when you subscribe below! Please rate us on iTunes! If you enjoyed the show, please rate it on iTunes and write a review . It would really help us spread the word about the ARE Podcast. Tha...

In this podcast, we discuss the ARE journey as a marathon and not a sprint. Listen to the Audio Please Subscribe Receive automatic updates when you subscribe below! Please rate us on iTunes! If you enjoyed the show, please rate it on iTunes and write a review . It would really help us spread the word about the ARE Podcast. Thanks!

In this podcast, we discuss the only 3 ways to change the contract for construction using the Architects Supplemental Instruction, Change Order, and Construction Change Directive. Listen to the Audio Click to Watch Please Subscribe Receive automatic updates when you subscribe below! Please rate us on iTunes! If you enjoyed the show, please rate it on iTunes and write a review . It would really hel...

In this podcast, we discuss a step by step plan for a two retake plan. Listen to the Audio Click to Watch Please Subscribe Receive automatic updates when you subscribe below! Please rate us on iTunes! If you enjoyed the show, please rate it on iTunes and write a review . It would really help us spread the word about the ARE Podcast. Thanks!

In this podcast, we discuss the struggle that can come with telling extended family when it comes to gatherings. Listen to the Audio Click to Watch Please Subscribe Receive automatic updates when you subscribe below! Please rate us on iTunes! If you enjoyed the show, please rate it on iTunes and write a review . It would really help us spread the word about the ARE Podcast. Thanks!