NCIDQ IDIX Podcast Exam Prep

Black and white logo for the Architect Exam Podcast with bold text and a circular emblem in the word “Podcast.”

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:

  • Codes and life safety (16%)
  • Integration and FF&E (19%)
  • Construction documents including plans, elevations, details, and RCPs (32%)
  • Consultant drawing coordination (18%)
  • Construction specifications and schedules (15%)

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.

What does the NCIDQ IDIX exam cover?

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.

What is the difference between the IDIX and the old PRAC exam?

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.

Is the IDIX the hardest NCIDQ exam?

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.

Rolled construction drawings and a specs book face off in a boxing ring, dramatizing the classic Drawings vs. Specifications debate in architecture.

Construction Specifications vs Drawings: Who Wins?

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...

Female architect holding a book on a construction site titled “Construction Specifications 101”

Construction Specifications 101: The Project Manual Explained

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...