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.
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...
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...
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...
This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about construction bonds and how they protect your projects. You'll learn the different types of construction bonds (including performance bonds and payment bonds), how surety bonds...
Public works projects and private projects follow completely different rules for procurement, contracts, and decision-making. Whether you’re working with government agencies or private architecture clients, understanding these differences changes how you practice. This guide breaks...