Architect Exam Podcast

Architect Exam Podcast - ARE 5.0 EXAM PREP

Listen to podcast episodes breaking down exam topics and strategies for all divisions of the Architect Registration Exam. This category features free audio content covering test-taking techniques, division-specific tips, and insights from successful candidates. Episodes include discussions on complex concepts, common pitfalls, and effective preparation methods to help candidates develop confidence and knowledge for exam success.

Quality Assurance vs Quality Control QA vs QC: One Prevents Problems, One Finds Them

QA vs QC: One Prevents Problems and The Other Finds Them

Mastering the QA vs QC relationship is crucial for architectural project success. Understanding when to apply quality assurance versus quality control can dramatically reduce errors, improve workflow efficiency, and prevent costly mistakes. This comprehensive guide...

Construction Types

Construction Types: The 5 Essential Building Classifications

Construction types are fundamental building classifications that determine everything from fire resistance to allowable heights and materials. This guide breaks down all five types of building construction as defined in the International Building Code (IBC),...

construction punch list

Who Creates the Construction Punch List? Not Who You Think

Construction punch lists are the final critical step before project completion, yet there's confusion about who creates them. While many assume architects are responsible, the contractor actually creates the initial punch list - a fact...

preconstruction services

Preconstruction Activities For Construction & Evaluation

Understanding preconstruction activities is essential for ARE candidates preparing for the Construction Evaluation (CE) exam. This comprehensive guide breaks down CE Section 1, explaining the architect's changing roles during preconstruction, contractor selection criteria, and cost...

occupancy classifications

Understanding Occupancy Classifications: A Complete Guide for ARE Candidates

Mastering occupancy classifications are essential for ARE success. This guide breaks down IBC's classification system and shows how it affects design, code compliance, and safety. Learn to confidently classify any project and avoid costly compliance...

Construction Specification Types

Construction Specification Types Made Simple: A Complete Guide

This guide demystifies all major construction specification types and helps you understand when and how to use each one. These distinctions will make you more effective at writing, interpreting, enforcing, and managing construction documents....

Drawings vs. Specifications

Drawings vs. Specifications: Why “Specs Always Win” Is Dead Wrong

This guide debunks the common misconception about document precedence and explains how drawings vs specifications work together as complementary contract documents. Understanding this drawings vs specifications relationship is crucial for both ARE success and professional...

Layla Qarout

Persistence, Practice, And Passing The ARE – Meet Layla Qarout

Layla Qarout had anything but a typical journey to becoming a licensed architect. Originally from Palestine, Layla transitioned internationally, navigated through ARE 5.0, and experienced firsthand how challenging and frustrating the exam process can be....

Construction Specifications

Understanding Specifications: An Introduction for ARE/CDT Candidates

Have you ever wondered why architectural specifications matter so much? Or maybe you've been avoiding them altogether because they seem intimidating or boring? I get it. Specs aren't exactly the most exciting part of architecture...

Construction contingency

Construction Contingency: Planning for the Project’s Unknown

In the world of architecture and construction, one truth remains constant: something will always go wrong. No matter how meticulously you plan, how carefully you design, or how thoroughly you prepare your construction documents, the...