Architect Exam Podcast

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: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/building-codes-regulations-pa-exam 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: https://youngarchitect.com/PAcodes - 🎓 Programming & Analysis 101 Course: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/programming-analysis-101-are-5-0-exam-prep/ - 🏗️ Building Codes 101 Course: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/building-codes-101-are-5-0-exam-prep/ - 🚀 ARE Bootcamp (10-Week Coaching): https://youngarchitect.com/arebootcamp/ 👍 Like & Subscribe for more ARE exam prep content every week! Have questions about codes and regulations? Drop them in the comments below.  

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: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/best-are-exam-order/ 🔗 Essential Resources: - ARE 101 Course Membership: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/join/ncarb-are-101/ - ARE Boot Camp (10-week coaching program): https://youngarchitect.com/arebootcamp/ - 2 Pager Download: YoungArchitect.com/ExamOrder 👍 Like this podcast if it helped you plan your ARE journey! Subscribe for more architect exam prep content every week.

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: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/construction-claims-and-disputes/  - 🎓 Young Architect Academy: https://academy.youngarchitect.com  - 🎯 ARE Practice Questions: https://academy.youngarchitect.com 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: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/construction-claims-and-disputes/ Ready to tackle the ARE with confidence? Join us at Young Architect Academy where our practice questions are aligned precisely with NCARB's objectives: https://academy.youngarchitect.com 👍 Like this episode? Subscribe for weekly architecture and ARE exam prep content and ring the notification bell so you never miss an upload!  

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: https://youngarchitect.com/AREquestions Resources & Links: -📝 FREE 2-Page Study Guide: https://youngarchitect.com/AREquestions  -📖 Complete Blogpost on for this podcast: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/reading-are-exam-questions/ -🎯 ARE Bootcamp (10-Week Coaching Program): https://youngarchitect.com/arebootcamp/ -📚 ARE 101 Course Membership: https://youngarchitect.com/ARE101  The Young Architect 101 Courses: -Practice Management 101 (PcM): https://youngarchitect.com/PcM101  -Project Management 101 (PjM): https://youngarchitect.com/PjM101  -Construction & Evaluation 101 (CE): https://youngarchitect.com/CE101  -Programming & Analysis 101 (PA): https://youngarchitect.com/pa101  -AIA Contracts 101: https://youngarchitect.com/Contracts101  -Building Codes 101: https://youngarchitect.com/Codes101  -Mechanical Systems 101: https://youngarchitect.com/Mechanical101  -CDT 101 Certification: https://youngarchitect.com/CDT101  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!  

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: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/types-of-elevators/ 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. https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/types-of-elevators  Resources: - Free 2 page Study Guide for this elevator podcast: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/types-of-elevators - ARE Course Membership (all exams): https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/join/ncarb-are-101/ - Programming & Analysis 101:  https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/programming-analysis-101-are-5-0-exam-prep/ - ARE Bootcamp coaching program: https://youngarchitect.com/arebootcamp/ 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!  

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: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/hard-costs-vs-soft-costs/  🔗 Links & Resources: - 📝 In-Depth Article - Hard Costs vs Soft Costs Guide: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/hard-costs-vs-soft-costs/  - 🎓 ARE 101 Course Membership - Master Construction Economics: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/join/ncarb-are-101/ - 📚 Related: Construction Contingency Planning: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/contingency - 📊 Related: Construction Bonds Explained: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/construction-bonds-explained 👍 If this helped clarify construction costs for you, please LIKE and SUBSCRIBE for more weekly Architect Registration Exam content!  

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: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/standard-of-care/ 🔗 Resources:  - 🎓 ARE Bootcamp Program: https://Academy.YoungArchitect.com  - 📚 Young Architect Academy Courses: https://Academy.YoungArchitect.com  - 🎯 Practice Questions and Exam Prep: https://Academy.YoungArchitect.com 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: https://Academy.YoungArchitect.com 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!  

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: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/project-closeout-ce-exam-section-4/  - 📚 Complete Construction & Evaluation Course: https://youngarchitect.com/CE101  - 🎯 ARE Bootcamp Program: https://youngarchitect.com/bootcamp Want to master Construction & Evaluation project closeout and evaluation? Check out our comprehensive blog post and download the 2-page study notes at: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/project-closeout-ce-exam-section-4/ Ready to tackle the entire CE exam? Our CE 101 course includes detailed case studies, practice questions, and expert guidance for all four sections: https://youngarchitect.com/CE101 👍 Like this episode? Subscribe for weekly ARE exam prep content and ring the notification bell so you never miss an upload!  

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: https://youngarchitect.com/business Want to dive deeper? Read our complete guide with examples and diagrams: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/business-entity-types-for-architects/ Ready to pass the ARE? Join our 10-week ARE Boot Camp: https://youngarchitect.com/arebootcamp/ Remember - the right business entity is like good drainage. Nobody notices when it's working properly, but everyone suffers when it's not!

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: https://youngarchitect.com/CDTWebinar - Episode 26 - Why ARE Candidates Get CDT Certified:  https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-candidates-cdt-certification/ - Young Architect Academy: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/ - CDT 101: https://youngarchitect.com/CDT101  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: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-candidates-cdt-certification/ 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  

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: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/vent-stack-vs-stack-vent/ 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: https://youngarchitect.com/bootcamp 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!    

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: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/realistic-are-study-schedule/ 📚 ARE Prep Resources: - ARE 101 Course Membership: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/join/ncarb-are-101/ - ARE Boot Camp (10-week coaching program): https://youngarchitect.com/arebootcamp/ 👍 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!

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: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-candidates-cdt-certification/ 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: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-candidates-cdt-certification - 🏢 Learn more at Construction Specifications Institute: https://www.csiresources.org/certification/cdt - 📚 Accelerate your CDT® journey with our CDT® 101 course: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/join/cdt-101/ 

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: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/gross-rentable-usable-and-net-areas/  🔗 Resources: - Download our FREE 2-page study guide with diagrams and formulas: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/gross-rentable-usable-and-net-areas/  - Watch the companion video with practice questions: https://youtu.be/dYLvVU7eW5E - Learn more about our ARE prep resources: https://youngarchitect.com Want to master area measurements for the ARE exam? Get our comprehensive PA 101 course with dozens of practice questions on this topic: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/join/ncarb-are-101/ If you're studying for the ARE, join our 10-week ARE Boot Camp for personalized coaching and community support: https://youngarchitect.com/arebootcamp/

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: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/construction-specification-writing-errors/  🔗 Resources: - 🎓 Learn more about specifications in our CDT 101 course: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/join/cdt-101/ - 🧠 Join ARE Bootcamp for comprehensive exam prep: https://youngarchitect.com/arebootcamp/ If you found this helpful, subscribe to our channel for more architecture exam prep content and practice tips! #ArchitectSpecs #AREprep #ArchitectExam  

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: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/change-order/ 🔗 Links & Resources: - 🎥 ARE Bootcamp: https://youngarchitect.com/arebootcamp/  - 📚 ARE 101 Membership: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/join/ncarb-are-101/  - 🏗️ CDT 101 Course: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/join/cdt-101/ ✅ Want to learn more about contract modifications for the ARE exam? Check out our in-depth article for a complete analysis: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/change-order/ If you found this helpful, please LIKE and SUBSCRIBE for more weekly Architect Registration Exam content! #ArchitectExam #AREprep #ChangeOrders  

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: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/construction-administrative-procedures-ce-section-3/ - 📚 Complete Construction & Evaluation Course: https://youngarchitect.com/CE101  -  🎯 ARE Bootcamp Program: https://youngarchitect.com/bootcamp Want to master Construction & Evaluation administrative procedures?  Check out our comprehensive CE 101 course for detailed case studies, practice questions, and expert guidance: https://youngarchitect.com/CE101 👍 Like this episode? Subscribe for weekly ARE exam prep content and ring the notification bell so you never miss an upload! #Architecture #AREExam #ConstructionAdmin  

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: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/architect-insurance/

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: 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.

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: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/visual-learner-myth-why-you-need-multiple-study-methods/ 🔗 Links & Resources - ARE 101 Course Membership: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/join/ncarb-are-101/ - ARE Boot Camp (10-week coaching program): https://youngarchitect.com/arebootcamp/ - Young Architect Academy: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com Don't study passively - engage actively! SUBSCRIBE for weekly ARE prep strategies and leave a COMMENT with your biggest ARE study challenge.