If you’re preparing for the Architecture Registration Exam 5.0 Programming & Analysis (ARE PA) this is your one stop shop. While studying for the exams, a huge hassle was finding all the right resources. This is a place you can come to find a list of resources for the exam. If you have any additional resources, leave a comment below and I’ll add it to the list.
To help guide you I’ve located [$] below for any links that lead to paid resources.
[$] means less than $50
[$$] means between $50 and $100
[$$$] means over $100
General Exam Resources
TBD
NCARB Recommended References for the ARE PA
NCARB ARE Handbook [Free] – An overview of what is tested on each of the ARE 5.0 divisions.
International Building Code (2012) [$$$] – Old faithful. Sometimes it can be hard to get through and understand code. A lot of it just comes with memorization. I’ve linked the commentary here because it helps you understand the intent behind the code. [Also Recommend for: PPD, PDD]
Planning and Urban Design Standards [$$$] – “This book is tremendously broad in its coverage of planning topics, though not in depth. Most topics get only 2 pages, though some get 4-5. References are listed for each topic to help you find more detailed information. “
Space Planning Basics [$$] – A great recourse for understanding the fundamentals of creating a building program and developing one into an initial schematic plan.
Video Playlist on ARE PA
Online Resources & Downloads for the ARE Programming & Analysis Exam
Taking this test on Saturday. Last 4.0 exam to complete for the trio, then on to 5.0. This site is my go-to place when organizing what materials I’ll be studying
In the NCARB ARE 5.0 handbook they reference Fundamentals of Building Construction: Materials and Methods in both of their example questions for cost estimating. Unfortunately there isn’t a specific chapter on cost estimating, it’s woven throughout the content.
Deciduous trees should only be used for shade (especially in temperate climates). Deciduous trees lose their leaves in the fall and will have little protection against wind in the winter when it is most needed. Likewise, the leafless trees allow solar heat gain in the winter when it is desired, and shade in the summer.
Coniferous trees are only to be used to block wind and views. Since they don’t lose their needles, they work great for these two items year-round.
Hello. My name is Shahid. This comment is for anyone who would like to reply. On the Siteplanning test. To block the wind, can you use a Deciduous tree or must you use a Coniferous tree?
I need to take 5.0 PPD & PDD. Do you plan on posting notes such as “Caroline’s Notes” that you had posted for the various 4.0 exams for either of those sections? I found those notes to be some of the best resources in studying for the 4.0 sections. If so any idea when? Thanks
Great post, very helpful with the lists of suggested materials, I just passed CDs in July and am taking PPP in November so I definitely needed the list.
T.B.D.
Thank you for this website. The practice questions are helpful.
Taking this test on Saturday. Last 4.0 exam to complete for the trio, then on to 5.0. This site is my go-to place when organizing what materials I’ll be studying
Hi , very good article.
thanks for sharing, keep up the good work
Good advice. Best of luck to all!
This is my favorite site for practicing for my tests! Great advise and super helpful.
Nice post to read. A complete guide that can help all of us.
Nice one… very helpful! Thanks!!!
Nice post
Great post!
In the NCARB ARE 5.0 handbook they reference Fundamentals of Building Construction: Materials and Methods in both of their example questions for cost estimating. Unfortunately there isn’t a specific chapter on cost estimating, it’s woven throughout the content.
What is the best reference for cost estimating for PDD.
Thanks! Great advice
Deciduous trees should only be used for shade (especially in temperate climates). Deciduous trees lose their leaves in the fall and will have little protection against wind in the winter when it is most needed. Likewise, the leafless trees allow solar heat gain in the winter when it is desired, and shade in the summer.
Coniferous trees are only to be used to block wind and views. Since they don’t lose their needles, they work great for these two items year-round.
Hello. My name is Shahid. This comment is for anyone who would like to reply. On the Siteplanning test. To block the wind, can you use a Deciduous tree or must you use a Coniferous tree?
Hi Tony,
I need to take 5.0 PPD & PDD. Do you plan on posting notes such as “Caroline’s Notes” that you had posted for the various 4.0 exams for either of those sections? I found those notes to be some of the best resources in studying for the 4.0 sections. If so any idea when? Thanks
Hi Tony,
Any updates on the SS exam ? If there’s an expected release date ? Thanks
Paige,
We are releasing practice exams for the SS exam later this fall.
Best,
Tony
Will you have SS questions on here at some point?
Great post, very helpful with the lists of suggested materials, I just passed CDs in July and am taking PPP in November so I definitely needed the list.