The Planning and Analysis (PA) exam for the Architect Registration Examination (ARE) 5.0 can feel overwhelming. The breadth of topics demands a focused and strategic approach. This guide will provide you with a detailed 5.0 PA study guide to help you succeed.
Essential Books for ARE 5.0 PA Success
Choosing the right study materials is crucial. Here’s a breakdown of recommended books and how to use them effectively:
Site Planning & Design Handbook: This book is a cornerstone resource recommended by the ARE 5.0 community. Focus on chapters covering:
- Controlling Wind, Water, and Sun onsite
- Use of Shading
- Environmental Conditions
- Floodplains
- Brownfields and Remediation, Radon, Lead, and Asbestos
- Unstable soil
Sun, Wind, and Light: Architectural Design Strategies: A valuable resource for sustainable design principles. Focus on Chapters I, II, and VI to understand sustainable strategies relevant to the PA exam.
Building Codes Illustrated: This book is particularly helpful for visual learners as it uses diagrams to explain code concepts. The chapter organization mirrors the IBC, making it easy to locate relevant information. Make sure you are using the latest version.
Hyperfine PA Course: Print out the assignments and complete them by hand to reinforce learning. Read the assigned resources before attempting each assignment to ensure a thorough understanding of the material.
Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED): Focus on the Preface and Chapter 1 to understand the core principles of CPTED and how they are applied in site design.
Problem Seeking: An Architectural Programming Primer: Understand the concepts and process of architectural programming, similar to creating an architectural thesis.
Ballast Review Manual: Read the sections specifically dedicated to the PA exam.
Codes and Standards: Your Foundation
Understanding codes and standards is vital for the ARE 5.0 PA exam.
ADA referenced in the NCARB Reference Matrix
International Building Code (IBC) 2018
Use the Building Codes Illustrated textbook in conjunction with the online versions of the code through Upcodes or the ICC website. Prioritize chapters 3, 4, 5, 6, and 10. Use a digital version for faster searching. Memorize common IBC sections for quick recall during the exam.
2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design
This should be used as a primary resource. Read the code in its entirety from UpCodes before consulting other resources. Videos from Archicorner and the U.S. Access Board, accessible via the ARE 5.0 PA YouTube Playlist, are excellent supplementary materials.
Protruding Objects video from the U.S. Access Board as part of my ARE 5.0 PA Playlist.
Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties
This document is straightforward and doesn’t require a deep dive. Focus on understanding the definitions of each treatment method (Preservation, Rehabilitation, Restoration, and Reconstruction). Specifically, review:
- Introduction (page 2)
- Historical Overview (page 4)
- Introduction Sections for Each of the Standards
Leverage Digital Resources
Quizlet: Utilize Quizlet for memorizing standards, codes, and soil information that are easily confused.
NCARB Forum/ARE 5 Community: Compare the NCARB Reference Matrix with community recommendations for effective study materials.
ARE 5.0 PA YouTube Videos: Explore videos covering:
- Water management, water tables, and flooding
- Climates and sun orientation
- Floor area ratios
- Egress, ADA, and IBC
- Soils and site surveys
- Bioremediation and historic preservation
- R-value, U-Value, and Reflectance
- Zoning and property considerations
Practice Exams: Sharpen Your Skills
Designer Hacks PA Exam: Use Designer Hacks for quick practice sessions due to its mobile-friendly format. These questions serve as a good starting point.
WEARE Website: WEARE offers more challenging questions and allows for cross-training with different question styles.
Walking the ARE 5.0 PA Practice Exam: This exam can be tough but helps identify gaps in your knowledge. Take it mid-study to allow time to address weak areas.
Ballast Practice Exam: Work through this practice exam at least once.
Time Management Tools
Clockify Website: Track your study hours to ensure you meet your goals. Use a study material tracker to allocate time effectively for each resource.
Additional Helpful Resources
- Pluralsight Prepare for the ARE Vol. 3 Programming & Analysis: A quick overview to get acquainted with the material.
- Study Group: Studying with a group can help solidify understanding and identify areas needing further review.
- Soil Boring Reports: Review examples of soil boring reports and the USPLSS soil classification system.
Resources to Consider Carefully
- Black Spectacles: While their YouTube videos are helpful, the paid offerings may not be worth the cost.
- AEP: Consider carefully before purchasing due to the high cost and mixed reviews.
- Amberbooks: Evaluate whether Amberbooks are necessary, considering available YouTube playlists and practice exams.
- Young Architect Bootcamp: Consider this if you struggle with your final exam, but try a self-guided approach first.
Key Takeaways for ARE 5.0 PA Success
Success on the ARE 5.0 PA exam requires diligent preparation and strategic resource utilization. Stay focused, minimize distractions, and maintain a consistent study schedule.
By using this 5.0 PA study guide, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle the exam and achieve your goal of becoming a licensed architect. Good luck!
