Architects tend to work long hours. Studying for ARE 5 on top of that can be overwhelming. For some, its a tall order, here is the step by step process to keep your pace to takle those exams!

Before finding out about this trick myself I even failed PCM and CE which are deemed to be the some of the easiest exams. But after getting myself together, I nailed the the rest in one go. This study tips are designated for people pursuing licensure with full time job.

1. Schedule and secure your exam date first. Then work backwards to study so you have feel of urgency to finish.
2. Allow 1-1.5 month study period. 1 month for each smaller exam (PCM, PJM, PA, CE) or 1.5 months (for PPD and PDD).
3. Track your study hours. For the smaller exams, (PCM, PJM, PA, CE) allocate 80 – 100 hours study time, and 150 hours for PPD and PDD. I tend to over prepare, and have trouble to concentrate, I heard people gets by on 60 hours study time for smaller exams.
4. Allocate study time as your daily routine. I allocated 8-11PM during workdays and 10AM-6PM for weekends to study. Don’t forget to allow yourself a break, I have 4 off days over 4 weeks.
5. Study in group. You can have people studying other subject too as your study group. I found it more effective to have non-architect as part of the study group.

Bonus Tip: Failed? Move on. Don’t get discouraged if you failed on one of the exams, plan your next one right away while waiting for 2 months until you are allowed to re-take.