Free NCIDQ IDIX podcast episodes designed to help you pass the Interior Design Implementation Exam. Each episode breaks down CIDQ’s exam objectives so you know exactly what to study.
The IDIX focuses on design development and construction documentation, with an emphasis on health, safety, and welfare. The exam covers five content areas:
The IDIX is 130 questions over 4 hours, making it the longest section of the NCIDQ. It replaced the old PRAC exam starting in 2026 with updated blueprints.
Construction Documents is the biggest section at 32%, so knowing how to develop floor plans, elevations, sections, details, demolition plans, and reflected ceiling plans is critical.
This is the Architect Exam Podcast, but don’t let the name fool you.
The topics covered in these episodes, from construction documents and specifications to codes and consultant coordination, apply directly to the NCIDQ IDIX.
Architects and interior designers share the same foundational knowledge when it comes to health, safety, and welfare.
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.
The IDIX tests your ability to produce construction documents for interior design projects. The biggest section is Construction Documents at 32%, covering floor plans, elevations, sections, details, demolition plans, and reflected ceiling plans. You also need to understand codes and life safety, FF&E integration with building systems, consultant coordination, and construction specifications.
The IDIX replaced the PRAC starting in 2026 with updated exam blueprints from CIDQ’s latest Practice Analysis. The IDIX focuses specifically on design development and construction documentation phases, with streamlined content that reduces overlap with the IDFX and IDPX. The format uses the same question types as the other two exams.
Many candidates find the IDIX the most challenging because it’s the longest exam (130 questions over 4 hours) and Construction Documents alone accounts for 32% of the score. Strong knowledge of how to read, create, and coordinate construction drawings is essential. Give yourself extra study time for this section.
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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 the different types of elevators is crucial for architects planning vertical transportation systems. This comprehensive guide covers hydraulic, traction, and machine room-less elevators with selection criteria, components, and code requirements essential for ARE...
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...
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Understanding the difference between vent stacks and stack vents is crucial for ARE success. This guide breaks down these confusing plumbing concepts with clear analogies and practical examples to help you master plumbing system...
This comprehensive guide breaks down the critical differences between fire walls, fire barriers, fire partitions, smoke barriers, and smoke partitions in building construction. Understand the specific fire-resistance ratings, continuity requirements, and applications for each system...
Understanding the financial structure of construction projects is essential for architects. Whether you’re managing a client’s budget expectations, leading your first project, or preparing for the ARE, knowing the difference between hard costs vs soft...
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),...
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....