Free ARE PPD podcast episodes designed to help you pass the Project Planning and Design exam. Each episode breaks down NCARB’s objectives so you know exactly what to study – and what to skip.
PPD is the “design it” exam. Once you’ve analyzed the site and the program in PA, PPD is where you start making design decisions. Topics include:
PPD is one of the bigger exams on the ARE. It pulls from site design, structural systems, mechanical systems, building envelope, and code compliance all at once. Take PA first if you haven’t already – it builds the foundation PPD depends on.
No need to take notes while you listen. For many episodes, we’ve already made a free two-page set of study notes for you – just go to the episode page and grab them.
Ready for more than a podcast? Check out our complete PPD 101 course with 10+ hours of video lessons and 250+ practice questions.
PPD covers design-level decision making across five sections – environmental conditions, codes and regulations, building systems and assemblies, program and systems integration, and project costs. It’s one of the most content-heavy ARE exams because it pulls from so many different technical areas at once.
Most candidates find PPD significantly harder than PA. PA is focused on research and analysis – PPD asks you to apply that knowledge to actual design decisions across structural systems, mechanical systems, building envelope, and code compliance simultaneously. Give yourself extra study time for PPD.
Many episodes include a free two-page set of study notes. Just go to the individual episode page, enter your email, and download them. No note-taking required – just listen.
Most ARE candidates jump straight into studying PcM, PjM, and CE without ever stopping to ask, “What is each of these exams actually about?” This guide breaks down the three pro practice exams on...
Construction disputes and construction claims are an unavoidable part of working in the AEC industry. Whether you’re managing an active project or preparing for the ARE exam, knowing how to prevent, navigate, and resolve these...
Building an ARE study schedule that actually works is one of the hardest parts of the licensing process, especially when most advice out there ignores the reality of what it takes. After helping hundreds...
Construction cost estimates are essential tools that help architects provide accurate budget guidance and make smart design decisions throughout every project phase. These estimates evolve from broad conceptual estimates with 25-50% accuracy to precise...
Substantial completion is the most important milestone in the life of a construction project, and most people studying for the ARE don’t give it enough attention. It marks the moment when the owner can legally...
Construction administration is the phase of a project where the architect shifts from designer to administrator, overseeing the construction process to make sure the project gets built according to the contract documents. This guide...
Test taking strategies are the difference between candidates who walk out of the testing center confident and candidates who studied just as hard but felt blindsided by how the questions were worded. If you’re...
Fire rated walls are tested and certified wall assemblies specifically designed to resist fire and heat for a certain time period. Built with fire rated drywall like Type X gypsum board, these fire rated wall...
The architect standard of care doesn’t mean perfect work. It means the level of skill and care that a reasonably competent architect would exercise under similar circumstances. If you’re studying for the ARE or...
Understanding liquidated damages is critical for architects, contractors, and ARE candidates preparing for the architect registration examination. This comprehensive guide covers the liquidated damages definition, how a liquidated damages clause works, where they appear in...
QA vs QC is one of the most commonly confused topics in architecture and construction. Quality assurance (QA) prevents problems before they happen. Quality control (QC) finds and fixes them after the fact. This...
The difference between life and death during a building emergency often comes down to one thing: means of egress. These critical escape pathways aren’t arbitrary rules imposed by building officials; rather, they’re the result...
Understanding “no exceptions taken” and mastering construction submittals is essential for ARE success and professional practice. This comprehensive guide explains the submittal process, types, and review actions that translate design intent into construction reality....
Cast-in-place concrete creates monolithic structural systems by pouring a concrete mix into formwork on-site. This guide covers span limitations, rebar sizing, construction defects like honeycombing, and when to choose concrete over steel or pre-tensioned...
CSI® MasterFormat® is the construction industry’s standardized system for organizing specifications and project information. This comprehensive guide breaks down all 50 CSI MasterFormat divisions, explains the numbering system and three-part specification format, compares MasterFormat...
Understanding what is a change order in construction is essential for every architect, contractor, and project manager. Construction change orders are formal contract amendments that require agreement from all three parties, and they always cost...
The RFI meaning in construction is straightforward: it stands for Request for Information. An RFI in construction is a formal document used during the building process to clarify unclear, missing, or conflicting information in...
Discover why CDT® certification is becoming the strategic advantage for ARE candidates seeking to accelerate their licensing journey. This industry-recognized credential fills critical knowledge gaps, builds professional confidence, and provides the comprehensive project delivery understanding...
The AIA C401 Standard Form of Agreement Between Architect and Consultant establishes clear relationships, communication protocols, and liability protection between architects and their design consultants. This essential AIA contract document protects all parties through...
Understanding foundation types can save your project from budget-busting surprises. This guide breaks down 7 essential foundation systems, explaining when to use each based on soil conditions, building loads, and site constraints, so you can...