020 - Means of Egress: Making “OMG RUN FOR YOUR LIFE” Successful!
Release Date: 05/29/2025
044 - MasterFormat: Your Guide to Not Getting Lost in Specs
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Confused about CSI MasterFormat and how it applies to your architecture exams? This episode breaks down everything you need to know about construction specifications organization for the ARE exam and CDT certification. We explain the 50-division system, specification structure, and why understanding MasterFormat is crucial for exam success. Key exam topics covered: - CSI MasterFormat vs UniFormat differences (critical for ARE Practice Management) - 50-division organization system and major division groups - Three-part specification format (General, Products, Execution) - Real-world...
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043 - NCARB’s 2026 ARE Exam Changes: What You Need to Know
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041 - Construction Cost Estimates: Getting the Numbers Right
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040 - ARE Panic Notes: Your Test Day Survival Guide
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039 - Construction Specs Nightmares: 8 Myths That Wreck Projects
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038 - Fire Rated Walls: Don't Get Burned by the Details
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036 - What Is The Best ARE 5.0 Exam Order?
Architect Exam Podcast
Want to master the ARE 5.0 exam order strategy? This podcast breaks down the strategic testing sequence that maximizes your chances of passing NCARB’s architect exams efficiently. In this episode, we explore the most effective ARE 5.0 test order based on content overlap, difficulty progression, and real candidate experiences. You’ll learn why starting with certain exams builds momentum and creates knowledge foundations for subsequent tests. We cover each of the six ARE 5.0 exams and explain how their content connects, helping you understand the logical progression that leads to...
info_outlineIs egress the most feared topic on the ARE exam? It shouldn't be!
In this episode of the Architect Exam Podcast, building codes expert Layla shares her passion for egress design and breaks down why it matters for both the exam and real-world practice. We start with the big picture (the three components of egress that form a complete escape route) before diving into the calculations and dimensions you need to memorize.
Layla explains how occupant load drives everything from door widths to travel distances, using real examples to make these concepts stick.
Read the full blogpost for this podcast: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/means-of-egress/
✨ Pro Tip
As you listen, pay attention to the "why" behind each requirement. Understanding the logic makes memorization easier and helps you spot violations on the exam!
Whether you're preparing for PPD, PDD, or just want to design safer buildings, this episode provides a complete framework for thinking about egress in a way that goes beyond mere code compliance. By the end, you'll see why Layla calls egress her "favorite topic" and how mastering it gives you a serious advantage on the ARE.