Architect Exam Podcast
Free, high-value ARE prep broken into digestible episodes that make studying accessible and actually enjoyable. We translate complex exam content into clear, actionable strategies based directly on NCARB's objectives—not complicated study approaches that miss the mark. Young Architect has guided thousands to licensure since 2013 by simplifying ARE prep to what truly matters and keeping it fresh. Subscribe for practical ARE insights delivered in a format that fits your busy life.
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044 - MasterFormat: Your Guide to Not Getting Lost in Specs
11/21/2025
044 - MasterFormat: Your Guide to Not Getting Lost in Specs
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 applications in project delivery and construction administration - Specification organization principles for CDT certification Read the full blogpost for this podcast: This content directly applies to ARE 5.0 divisions including Practice Management, Project Management, and Construction & Evaluation. For CDT candidates, we cover fundamental specification principles that appear throughout the certification exam. 🎯 Download Your Study Guide: Get our FREE 2-page MasterFormat reference guide at - perfect for quick review before exams! 🎓 Master CDT Certification: Our CDT 101 course covers MasterFormat in detail: 💡 Study with us: Explore more exam prep resources at Ready to tackle construction specifications with confidence? Give this video a thumbs up and subscribe for more ARE and CDT exam preparation content!
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Black Friday 2025: Best ARE Study Materials & CDT Deals
11/18/2025
Black Friday 2025: Best ARE Study Materials & CDT Deals
Black Friday deals on the best ARE study materials and CDT certification prep! Save $300 on ARE Boot Camp, get bundle pricing on ARE 101, and more. This is our biggest Black Friday sale ever with exclusive deals on architect exam prep courses, ARE Boot Camp coaching, and CDT certification materials. These limited-time offers run from Monday, November 18th through Monday, December 2nd, 2025 - just 14 days to grab the best deals of the year. Whether you're studying for ARE 5.0 exams or pursuing CDT certification, we've got you covered with comprehensive study materials, practice questions, and expert coaching to help you pass your licensing exams. 🔗 Black Friday Deals & Registration: 📍 All Black Friday Deals: 📍 ARE Boot Camp Details: 📍 ARE 101 Membership: 📍 CDT 101 Course: 🎁 What's Included in This Sale: ARE Boot Camp: $999 (regularly $1,300) - January & February 2026 sessions ARE 101 Membership: Special bundle pricing on 3, 6, and 12-month options CDT 101 Course: $149 (regularly $199) for Spring 2026 FREE CDT Webinar: January 29th, 2026 at 7pm ET FREE Study Notes: Two-pagers for 30+ podcast episodes 💡 Why Choose Young Architect for ARE Exam Prep? Our ARE study materials include over 130 hours of video content, 1,500+ practice questions, interactive flashcards, and 24/7 virtual tutors. ARE Boot Camp is the only true coaching program (not just study materials) that provides accountability, community support, and a proven curriculum to help you pass all your exams efficiently. ✅ Don't miss out on these limited-time Black Friday offers! Make 2026 your year to pass your architect licensing exams. Visit YoungArchitect.com/blackfriday for complete details. 👍 If you found this helpful, SUBSCRIBE to The Architect Exam Podcast for weekly ARE prep insights and study strategies!
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043 - NCARB’s 2026 ARE Exam Changes: What You Need to Know
11/11/2025
043 - NCARB’s 2026 ARE Exam Changes: What You Need to Know
NCARB has officially announced the 2026 ARE exam changes affecting AXP, case studies, and 12 exam objectives across five divisions. This comprehensive breakdown explains what's actually changing, when these changes take effect, and exactly how they'll impact your path to licensure. After analyzing all the objective changes NCARB didn't want to discuss in their webinar, I'm walking you through every detail you need to know. 🔗 RESOURCES & LINKS: Want the complete written analysis with all objective numbers and deeper details? Read the full blog post for this ARE podcast: Come study with us! - Check out our ARE 101 Courses - - Check out our PcM 101 Course - - Check out our PjM 101 Course - - Check out our CE 101 Course - - Check out our PA 101 Course - - Check out our Mechanical Systems 101 Course - - Check out our Building Codes 101 Course - - Check out our AIA Contracts 101 course - - Check out our ARE Boot Camp Interactive Coaching (10-week program): ✅ NEXT STEPS: If you found this breakdown helpful, SUBSCRIBE to The Architect Exam Podcast for weekly ARE prep content.
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042 - ARE Exam Prep: Study Materials vs The ARE Boot Camp
11/03/2025
042 - ARE Exam Prep: Study Materials vs The ARE Boot Camp
ARE Bootcamp is the only coaching program for the Architect Registration Exam, and it works completely differently than study materials like Amber Book or Black Spectacles. In this episode, we break down exactly how ARE Bootcamp actually works and why it's not just another study resource. Michael explains the fundamental difference between coaching and study materials, shares the strategy behind both Pro Practice and Technical Bootcamp, and answers the most common questions about cost, time commitment, and success rates. You'll learn why ARE Bootcamp focuses on creating great architects rather than just passing exams. Want to learn more about ARE Bootcamp and see if it's right for your architect exam journey? Check out our full in-depth blogpost at: Check out all the details and frequently asked questions at: 👍 If this helped clarify how ARE Bootcamp works, please LIKE and SUBSCRIBE for more architect exam insights every week!
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041 - Construction Cost Estimates: Getting the Numbers Right
10/27/2025
041 - Construction Cost Estimates: Getting the Numbers Right
Understanding construction cost estimates is critical for architects at every stage of a project. From early conceptual estimates using square footage costs to detailed quantity takeoffs during construction documents, each estimate type serves a specific purpose and provides different levels of accuracy. In this episode, we break down when to use each estimate type, what information you need to prepare them, and how they’re tested on the ARE exam. Whether you’re studying for the PjM, PA, PDD exams or even working on real projects, this knowledge is essential. 🔗 Links & Resources: - 📝 Read the Complete Guide: Want to learn more about construction cost estimates? Check out our in-depth article for a complete analysis with examples, exam tips and a 2 page study guide. - 🎓 ARE Practice Management Course: - 🎓 ARE Project Management Course: - 🚀 JOIN ARE Boot Camp: ✅ Subscribe to The Architect Exam Podcast for weekly episodes on passing the ARE exam and advancing your architecture career.
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040 - ARE Panic Notes: Your Test Day Survival Guide
10/20/2025
040 - ARE Panic Notes: Your Test Day Survival Guide
Test day anxiety can derail even the most prepared ARE candidate. Learn proven strategies to stay calm and focused during your architect exam. Ever felt your heart racing during an exam? You’re not alone. Test anxiety affects countless ARE candidates, but it doesn’t have to derail your path to licensure. In this episode, we dive deep into practical strategies for managing test day panic and maintaining focus when it matters most. We cover the critical 7-day rule for exam scheduling, how to handle unexpected questions without spiraling, techniques for stopping negative self-talk, and why persistence beats perfection every time. These aren’t just feel-good tips - they’re battle-tested strategies from thousands of successful ARE candidates. ✅ Want to learn more about test day strategies? Check out our in-depth article for a complete analysis: 🔗 Resources & Links: - 📝 Free ARE Panic Notes Download: - 🎯 ARE 101 Course Membership: - 🚀 ARE Boot Camp Program: 👍 Like this video if it helped calm your test anxiety! Subscribe for more ARE exam prep content, and share your own test day experiences in the comments below.
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039 - Construction Specs Nightmares: 8 Myths That Wreck Projects
10/13/2025
039 - Construction Specs Nightmares: 8 Myths That Wreck Projects
Think specs are just boring boilerplate documents that nobody reads? Think again! In this episode, I reveal 8 dangerous myths about construction specifications that are costing architects time, money, and professional credibility. As someone who used to believe these myths myself, I'll share the painful lessons I learned the hard way - like when my copied-and-pasted specs nearly tanked a small commercial project. Whether you're studying for the ARE, pursuing CDT certification, or just trying to deliver better projects, understanding the truth about specifications isn't just academic - it's essential for success. Want to dive deeper into specification myths and avoid making these costly mistakes? Check out the full written blog post at Resources: - ARE 101 Course: - CDT 101 Course: - ARE Boot Camp: If this helped you understand specifications better, hit the LIKE button and SUBSCRIBE for more architecture exam prep content. Leave a comment with which myth surprised you the most!
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038 - Fire Rated Walls: Don't Get Burned by the Details
10/06/2025
038 - Fire Rated Walls: Don't Get Burned by the Details
Fire rated walls save lives by buying precious time during emergencies. Learn how these tested assemblies actually work and why every detail matters for building safety. Learn the essential knowledge every architect needs about fire rated walls, from Type X gypsum board science to UL assembly specifications. This comprehensive guide covers when and where fire rated walls are required, how they actually work to save lives, and the common mistakes that can compromise their effectiveness. Whether you’re studying for the ARE exam or working on real projects, understanding fire rated walls is crucial for Programming & Analysis, Project Planning & Design, and Project Development & Documentation divisions. 🔗 Links & Resources: - Master Building Codes for ARE Success: - ARE 101 Course Membership: - ARE Bootcamp Interactive Coaching - National Gypsum Resources: Want to learn more about fire rated walls? Check out our in-depth article for a complete analysis: 👍 Like & Subscribe: If this helped you understand fire rated walls, give it a thumbs up and subscribe for more ARE exam prep content every week!
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037 - Master Building Codes and Regulations for PA Exam Success - PA Section 2
09/29/2025
037 - Master Building Codes and Regulations for PA Exam Success - PA Section 2
Building codes and regulations make up 16-22% of your PA exam. Master them with this complete Section 2 breakdown! Learn the code requirements, zoning regulations, and site-specific standards that shape architectural programming. In this 32-minute deep dive, we break down all three objectives in PA Section 2, covering the essential code knowledge every architect needs for both exam success and professional practice. Whether you're struggling with occupancy classification, construction types, or understanding when different building code requirements apply, this episode gives you the complete framework. What You'll Learn: - How to identify relevant building codes for any project type and location - The "Big Three" codes that appear on almost every project (IBC, ADA, local amendments) - Understanding zoning requirements, setbacks, and FAR calculations - When variances and conditional use permits are appropriate - Site-specific requirements like historic preservation and environmental constraints - The 10 most common mistakes that trip up PA candidates Want to learn more about codes and regulations? Check out our in-depth article for a complete analysis: Ready to master building codes and pass your PA exam with confidence? Our Programming & Analysis 101 course includes 8+ hours of expert instruction, 260+ practice questions, and detailed case studies. Combined with Building Codes 101, you'll have the complete foundation needed for PA exam success. 🔗 Links & Resources: - 📝 Download FREE 2-Page Study Notes: - 🎓 Programming & Analysis 101 Course: - 🏗️ Building Codes 101 Course: - 🚀 ARE Bootcamp (10-Week Coaching): 👍 Like & Subscribe for more ARE exam prep content every week! Have questions about codes and regulations? Drop them in the comments below.
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036 - What Is The Best ARE 5.0 Exam Order?
09/22/2025
036 - What Is The Best ARE 5.0 Exam Order?
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 faster completion and higher pass rates. 🎯 Want to master the ARE 5.0 exam order strategy? Check out our complete analysis and download your free 2-page study notes: 🔗 Essential Resources: - ARE 101 Course Membership: - ARE Boot Camp (10-week coaching program): - 2 Pager Download: 👍 Like this podcast if it helped you plan your ARE journey! Subscribe for more architect exam prep content every week.
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035 - Claims and Disputes: When Projects Get Messy
09/15/2025
035 - Claims and Disputes: When Projects Get Messy
What happens when a simple construction project turns into a legal nightmare costing hundreds of thousands in attorney fees? Emily breaks down construction claims and disputes - the inevitable reality that every architect needs to understand before it happens to them. In this comprehensive episode, you'll learn the critical differences between claims and disputes, discover the most common types of construction claims, master prevention strategies that can save your project, and understand resolution methods from negotiation to litigation. Essential knowledge for ARE exam preparation and professional practice. 🔗 Resources: - 📝 Download FREE 2-Page Study Notes: - 🎓 Young Architect Academy: - 🎯 ARE Practice Questions: Want to master construction claims and disputes for your ARE preparation? Download the detailed 2-page study notes that cover everything discussed in this episode: Ready to tackle the ARE with confidence? Join us at Young Architect Academy where our practice questions are aligned precisely with NCARB's objectives: 👍 Like this episode? Subscribe for weekly architecture and ARE exam prep content and ring the notification bell so you never miss an upload!
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034 - ARE Exam Questions: Stop Getting Tricked by NCARB
09/08/2025
034 - ARE Exam Questions: Stop Getting Tricked by NCARB
Are ARE exam questions tripping you up even though you know the content? Learn the test taking strategies that separate passing from failing. Do you walk out of ARE exams feeling like you just played a guessing game instead of demonstrating your architecture knowledge? You're not alone. Many brilliant candidates fail these exams not because they lack knowledge, but because they don't know how to analyze ARE questions strategically. This episode breaks down the exact test taking strategies used by thousands of successful candidates. You'll learn: - How to strip away distracting information - Identify key qualifier words - Eliminate wrong answers with confidence Grab our free 2-page study guide so you don't have to take notes - it includes all the key strategies and examples from this episode: Resources & Links: -📝 FREE 2-Page Study Guide: -📖 Complete Blogpost on for this podcast: -🎯 ARE Bootcamp (10-Week Coaching Program): -📚 ARE 101 Course Membership: The Young Architect 101 Courses: -Practice Management 101 (PcM): -Project Management 101 (PjM): -Construction & Evaluation 101 (CE): -Programming & Analysis 101 (PA): -AIA Contracts 101: -Building Codes 101: -Mechanical Systems 101: -CDT 101 Certification: Take Action: Download our free study guide and start applying these test taking strategies to your ARE exam preparation today! 👍 Like this video if it helped you understand ARE questions better, and subscribe for weekly architecture exam prep content!
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033 - Types of Elevators: Breaking Down the Basics
09/03/2025
033 - Types of Elevators: Breaking Down the Basics
Master the three main types of elevators every architect needs to know - from hydraulic systems to high-speed traction elevators. This episode breaks down elevator selection for different building types and heights. Perfect for ARE candidates studying PA, PPD, or PDD exams where elevator knowledge is essential. Read the full blogpost for this podcast: Key Topics Covered: - Hydraulic Elevators - best for low-rise buildings up to 65 feet - Traction Systems - geared vs gearless for mid and high-rise buildings - Machine Room-Less (MRL) - space-saving designs for modern buildings - ADA Requirements & Fire Safety Protocols - critical code knowledge - Common Design Mistakes - avoid these expensive errors Each system has specific height limits, speed capabilities, and cost implications that directly impact your building design and exam success. After listening, test what you learned with our 10 question elevator quiz at the bottom of the webpage. Resources: - Free 2 page Study Guide for this elevator podcast: - ARE Course Membership (all exams): - Programming & Analysis 101: - ARE Bootcamp coaching program: Ready to ace your elevator questions on the ARE? Get our free study guide and start mastering building systems today! LIKE if this helped with your exam prep and SUBSCRIBE for more architecture content!
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032 - Hard Costs vs Soft Costs: Making Cents of Construction
08/25/2025
032 - Hard Costs vs Soft Costs: Making Cents of Construction
Understanding the difference between hard costs vs soft costs is essential, whether you're managing client budgets, leading projects, or preparing for the ARE. In this episode of The Architect Exam Podcast, Emily breaks down these critical cost categories that form the financial backbone of every construction project. Learn the fundamental differences between tangible hard costs (materials, labor, equipment) and intangible soft costs (design fees, permits, financing) that together create successful projects. We'll explore typical cost ratios, project type variations, and proven management strategies to keep your projects on budget. ✅ Want to learn more about hard costs vs soft costs? Check out our in-depth article for a complete analysis: 🔗 Links & Resources: - 📝 In-Depth Article - Hard Costs vs Soft Costs Guide: - 🎓 ARE 101 Course Membership - Master Construction Economics: - 📚 Related: Construction Contingency Planning: - 📊 Related: Construction Bonds Explained: 👍 If this helped clarify construction costs for you, please LIKE and SUBSCRIBE for more weekly Architect Registration Exam content!
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031 - Standard of Care: The Fine Art of Not Screwing Up
08/18/2025
031 - Standard of Care: The Fine Art of Not Screwing Up
Learn the essential concept that defines professional responsibility in architecture. Michael breaks down what standard of care actually means, why it's not about perfection, and how it protects architects in contracts and practice. In this comprehensive episode, you'll discover the difference between standard of care and perfection, understand how it appears in AIA contracts, learn to avoid elevated standards that create legal risk, and master practical strategies for demonstrating professional competence. Essential knowledge for ARE candidates and practicing architects alike. Read the full blogpost for this podcast: 🔗 Resources: - 🎓 ARE Bootcamp Program: - 📚 Young Architect Academy Courses: - 🎯 Practice Questions and Exam Prep: Want to master professional practice concepts like standard of care for your ARE preparation? Check out our comprehensive ARE Bootcamp program and Young Architect Academy courses at: Our ARE Bootcamp provides weekly coaching and accountability to help you push through the exam process, while the Young Architect Academy offers practice questions and courses covering all exam divisions. 👍 Like this episode? Subscribe for weekly architecture and ARE exam prep content and ring the notification bell so you never miss an upload!
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030 - Project Closeout & Evaluation - Breaking Down CE Section 4
08/11/2025
030 - Project Closeout & Evaluation - Breaking Down CE Section 4
Learn the essential concepts for the final section of the Construction & Evaluation exam. Michael and Emily wrap up their CE series by covering project closeout procedures and post-occupancy evaluation methods. In this comprehensive episode, you'll master the difference between substantial and final completion, understand the punch list process, learn about required closeout documentation, and discover how to evaluate building performance after occupancy. This is the conclusion of our four-part CE series covering all sections of this critical ARE division. 🔗 Resources: - 📝 Download FREE 2-Page Study Guide: - 📚 Complete Construction & Evaluation Course: - 🎯 ARE Bootcamp Program: Want to master Construction & Evaluation project closeout and evaluation? Check out our comprehensive blog post and download the 2-page study notes at: Ready to tackle the entire CE exam? Our CE 101 course includes detailed case studies, practice questions, and expert guidance for all four sections: 👍 Like this episode? Subscribe for weekly ARE exam prep content and ring the notification bell so you never miss an upload!
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029 - Business Entity Types for Architects: Save Your Assets
08/04/2025
029 - Business Entity Types for Architects: Save Your Assets
Learn how one architect lost $45,000 because she didn't set up the right business entity! Understanding business entity types might sound as exciting as watching concrete cure, but it could literally save your career! In this episode, Emily breaks down the crucial differences between sole proprietorships, LLCs, LLPs, and corporations with real-world examples that make these concepts crystal clear. We'll explore each structure using simple building analogies. Perfect for ARE 5.0 exam prep (especially Practice Management) or any architect considering starting their own practice. You'll understand exactly which business structure provides the right protection for different scenarios in your architecture career. Download our FREE Business Entities Cheat Sheet: Want to dive deeper? Read our complete guide with examples and diagrams: Ready to pass the ARE? Join our 10-week ARE Boot Camp: Remember - the right business entity is like good drainage. Nobody notices when it's working properly, but everyone suffers when it's not!
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028.5 - Free CDT® Webinar: Master the Fall 2025 Testing Cycle
07/28/2025
028.5 - Free CDT® Webinar: Master the Fall 2025 Testing Cycle
Join our free CDT webinar to master Fall 2025 registration deadlines, study strategies, and insider secrets that help ARE candidates efficiently add this valuable certification to their licensing journey. After Episode 26 about CDT certification for ARE candidates, we got flooded with requests for actionable information. People want to know how to actually get CDT certified. Emily and I are hosting a free CDT webinar to help you master the Fall 2025 testing cycle. We're both CDT certified and have helped hundreds of people succeed. The biggest thing about CDT? You're on their schedule, not yours. Unlike the ARE where you schedule whenever you want, CDT has only two opportunities per year with fixed deadlines. 🔗 Links & Resources: - Register for Free CDT Webinar: - Episode 26 - Why ARE Candidates Get CDT Certified: - Young Architect Academy: - CDT 101: YoungWant to learn more about CDT certification for ARE candidates? Check out our comprehensive analysis of why this certification makes strategic sense for your licensing journey: Don't let the CDT schedule dictate your timeline. Get the information you need to make an informed choice about the Fall 2025 testing cycle. #CDTWebinar #ARECandidates #ArchitectExamPodcast
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028 - Vent Stack vs Stack Vent: Clearing the Air for Good
07/21/2025
028 - Vent Stack vs Stack Vent: Clearing the Air for Good
Confused about the difference between vent stack vs stack vent and worried it might cost you points on the ARE? Layla breaks down these commonly confused plumbing concepts that trip up almost every ARE candidate - but once you understand the simple distinction, you'll never mix them up again. In this focused episode, you'll master the key differences between vent stacks and stack vents, understand when each is required in building design, learn practical analogies that make these concepts stick, and discover why this knowledge is crucial for solving complex plumbing scenarios on the ARE exam. Read the full blogpost for this podcast: Want to master vent stack vs stack vent and other challenging technical concepts for your ARE preparation? Join our ARE Bootcamp where candidates discuss and master these topics together: As Layla mentions, understanding technical concepts like the difference between vent stacks and stack vents becomes much clearer when you can discuss them with other candidates and get expert guidance. 👍 Like this episode? Subscribe for weekly architecture and ARE exam prep content and never miss an upload!
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027 - Create a Realistic ARE Study Schedule That Actually Works
07/14/2025
027 - Create a Realistic ARE Study Schedule That Actually Works
Creating a realistic ARE study schedule is crucial for passing your architect exams. In this comprehensive guide, I break down the step-by-step approach to building a study plan that works with your busy life. Learn the reality of what it takes to pass ARE 5.0 We cover everything from finding consistent study time to choosing the right test dates, plus common misconceptions that derail most candidates. Whether you're working full-time, raising kids, or juggling multiple responsibilities, this episode shows you how to create a sustainable study routine that leads to exam success. 🔗 Want to learn more about creating a realistic ARE study schedule? Check out our in-depth article for a complete analysis: 📚 ARE Prep Resources: - ARE 101 Course Membership: - ARE Boot Camp (10-week coaching program): 👍 Found this helpful? LIKE this video and SUBSCRIBE for weekly architect exam prep content. Share your study schedule challenges in the comments - we read every one!
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026 - ARE Candidates: Why CDT® Certification Is Your Next Win
07/06/2025
026 - ARE Candidates: Why CDT® Certification Is Your Next Win
This episode explains why pursuing the Construction Documents Technologist ® certification alongside your Architect Registration Exam preparation creates a powerful knowledge combination that enhances your career prospects. Want to learn more about ARE candidate and CDT® certification? Check out our in-depth article for a complete analysis: By the end, you'll understand why CDT® certification deserves serious consideration as part of your professional development path - especially if you're currently preparing for the ARE. 🔗 Links & Resources: -📝 Read the companion blog post containing more links and resources: - 🏢 Learn more at Construction Specifications Institute: - 📚 Accelerate your CDT® journey with our CDT® 101 course:
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025 - Gross, Rentable, Usable, and Net Areas: Simply Explained
06/30/2025
025 - Gross, Rentable, Usable, and Net Areas: Simply Explained
Understanding building area measurements is crucial for ARE exam success and professional practice! In this episode, we break down the differences between Gross Area, Rentable Area, Usable Area, and Net areas using the easy-to-remember GRUN framework. Never mix up these measurements again! We cover: - The hierarchy of building measurements - How to calculate building efficiency - Common exam traps and how to avoid them - Real-world examples that make these concepts click Check out our blogpost for a more indepth written version breaking down building area calculations: 🔗 Resources: - Download our FREE 2-page study guide with diagrams and formulas: - Watch the companion video with practice questions: - Learn more about our ARE prep resources: Want to master area measurements for the ARE exam? Get our comprehensive PA 101 course with dozens of practice questions on this topic: If you're studying for the ARE, join our 10-week ARE Boot Camp for personalized coaching and community support:
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024 - Top 10 Construction Specification Writing Errors & Solutions
06/23/2025
024 - Top 10 Construction Specification Writing Errors & Solutions
Discover the 10 most common construction specification mistakes architects make throughout their careers. In this video, we break down critical spec errors and share practical solutions to improve your architectural documentation. Despite being as crucial as drawings, specifications often get overlooked in architectural education. This comprehensive guide explores why poor specs lead to conflicts, cost overruns, and even legal disputes - plus how to fix these issues in your practice. 📝 Want to master architectural specifications and avoid costly mistakes? Check out our in-depth article for complete analysis and additional resources: 🔗 Resources: - 🎓 Learn more about specifications in our CDT 101 course: - 🧠 Join ARE Bootcamp for comprehensive exam prep: If you found this helpful, subscribe to our channel for more architecture exam prep content and practice tips! #ArchitectSpecs #AREprep #ArchitectExam
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023 - Construction Change Orders: Your Project’s Plot Twist
06/16/2025
023 - Construction Change Orders: Your Project’s Plot Twist
Warning: Change Orders will appear on every project in your career - here's what they don't tell you. In this comprehensive guide, I walk you through everything you need to know about change orders for the ARE exam and your career. - Understand the "Project Manager's Golden Rule" - why changes ALWAYS cost more - Learn the complete 7-step change order process from start to finish - Discover the critical differences between COs, CCDs, ASIs, and Addenda - See real-world examples from millions of dollars in change orders - Master change orders from all perspectives: owner, architect, and contractor 📝 Download our FREE Change Order Study Guide: 🔗 Links & Resources: - 🎥 ARE Bootcamp: - 📚 ARE 101 Membership: - 🏗️ CDT 101 Course: ✅ Want to learn more about contract modifications for the ARE exam? Check out our in-depth article for a complete analysis: If you found this helpful, please LIKE and SUBSCRIBE for more weekly Architect Registration Exam content! #ArchitectExam #AREprep #ChangeOrders
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022 - Construction Administrative Procedures: CE Section 3
06/10/2025
022 - Construction Administrative Procedures: CE Section 3
Learn the essential administrative procedures and protocols that make up Section 3 of the Construction & Evaluation exam. Michael and Emily break down all four objectives including RFIs, submittals, payment applications, and handling non-conforming work. In this comprehensive episode, you'll master the documentation that supports construction administration - from determining when to use ASIs versus change orders to properly reviewing contractor payment applications. We cover the critical paperwork that protects all parties during construction and ensures projects run smoothly. 🔗 Resources: - 📝 Download FREE 2-Page Study Guide: - 📚 Complete Construction & Evaluation Course: - 🎯 ARE Bootcamp Program: Want to master Construction & Evaluation administrative procedures? Check out our comprehensive CE 101 course for detailed case studies, practice questions, and expert guidance: 👍 Like this episode? Subscribe for weekly ARE exam prep content and ring the notification bell so you never miss an upload! #Architecture #AREExam #ConstructionAdmin
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021 - Architect Insurance: The Designer’s Guide to Risk Management
06/01/2025
021 - Architect Insurance: The Designer’s Guide to Risk Management
Learn exactly what insurance architects need and how to pass those tricky ARE insurance questions! This comprehensive guide breaks down professional liability, general liability, and more essential concepts. Insurance might seem boring, but it's crucial knowledge for both the ARE exam and your professional practice. In this episode, you'll learn: - The difference between Professional Liability/E&O and General Liability insurance - What contractors need to carry (Builder's Risk, General Liability, Workers' Comp) - How owner insurance requirements differ from architects and contractors - Real-world scenarios that mirror common ARE exam questions - Key legal terms: subrogation, hold harmless clauses, and indemnification - How to recognize which insurance applies in multi-party claims Want to master architect insurance concepts and ace the ARE exam? Visit this podcast's blogpost for more information and download our FREE 2-page study guide with all the key points organized for quick reference:
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020 - Means of Egress: Making “OMG RUN FOR YOUR LIFE” Successful!
05/29/2025
020 - Means of Egress: Making “OMG RUN FOR YOUR LIFE” Successful!
Is 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: ✨ 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.
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019 - Visual Learner Myth: Why You Need Multiple Study Methods
05/27/2025
019 - Visual Learner Myth: Why You Need Multiple Study Methods
Struggling with the ARE despite watching countless prep videos? In this episode, I break down why passive studying fails and introduce you to the Learning Pyramid - a powerful framework that shows exactly how to transform your studying from passive absorption to active learning that sticks when it matters most. Read the full blogpost for this podcast: 🔗 Links & Resources - ARE 101 Course Membership: - ARE Boot Camp (10-week coaching program): - Young Architect Academy: Don't study passively - engage actively! SUBSCRIBE for weekly ARE prep strategies and leave a COMMENT with your biggest ARE study challenge.
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018 - Construction Observation: Breaking Down CE Section 2
05/22/2025
018 - Construction Observation: Breaking Down CE Section 2
STRUGGLING with Construction & Evaluation Section 2? Did NCARB tell you "Section 2 needs improvement" but didn't explain why? This episode reveals EXACTLY what you need to know about the largest and most challenging section of the CE exam (29-41% of all questions)! In this comprehensive breakdown, we explore what happens when construction actually begins and your role as an architect during site visits. Learn exactly what NCARB is testing in this crucial section that many candidates struggle with. 🔑 KEY TOPICS COVERED: - Understanding the crucial distinction between observation vs. supervision - Evaluating construction for conformance with documents and codes - Determining construction progress and schedule adherence - Navigating design intent vs. contractor's means and methods - Documentation protocols for site visits and non-conforming work - Handling unforeseen conditions and material substitutions This podcast has a FREE 2-page study guide available at:
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017 - Construction Submittals: No Exceptions Taken
05/18/2025
017 - Construction Submittals: No Exceptions Taken
Construction Submittals: Avoid Costly Mistakes with Quality Control Avoid costly construction mistakes with submittals! This episode reveals how submittals serve as your project's quality control system, preventing expensive errors and delays. Discover the critical differences between shop drawings, product data, samples, and mock-ups, plus learn the exact submittal workflow from preparation to approval. You'll get insider tips on what "No Exceptions Taken" really means and how to avoid the common pitfalls that trip up even experienced professionals. Essential knowledge for passing your ARE exam and succeeding in real-world practice. 📝 FREE Study Guide Want to learn more about construction submittals? Download our FREE Two-Page Submittals Study Guide: 🔗 Links & Resources - 📚 Complete ARE Preparation: - 🧠 CDT 101 Course: - 🔥 Join ARE Boot Camp: If you found this helpful for your exam prep, please LIKE and SUBSCRIBE for weekly architecture exam content!
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