My planned approach is to execute the exams in batches 3, 3 and 1. Hopefully repetitive content on similar exams should assist my memory. Even if similar content doesn’t come up on the exams, I’ll be studying familiar material that hopefully assists my understanding. Knowing how lateral forces act on a concrete structure might help me remember the ratio of stone to sand to cement. (Roughly 7:5:3. It’s in compression, so it makes sense to have more stone.) So in one way I would be attacking both structures and methods and materials.
After office discussion and forum reading/posting, I was influenced to start with Construction Documents. Plus I was told getting a pass letter boosts your confidence, so start with something you think you can pass. (Thanks, “just”!). No way am I starting with Building Design and Construction Systems (Methods & Materials). I have so much trouble remembering certain basics that I freak out. For example, where does the vapor barrier go in humid climates? I find those to be tricky questions, so Building Design is in the second batch of exams.
I expect to reschedule the first three exams. But below is my expected order, with the currently scheduled exams noted:
Construction Documents & Services CDS (Aug postponed)
Programming, Planning & Practice PPP (Sep scheduled) (Pre-Design)
Site Planning & Design SPD (Sep scheduled) (Site Planning)
Building Design & Construction Systems BDCS (Jan) (Building Design and Methods & Materials)
Structural Systems SS (Jan) (General Structures and Lateral Forces)
Schematic Design SD (Feb) (Building Planning)
Building Systems BS (Apr) (Mechanical & Electrical Systems)
From what I’m reading, I think Site Planning should be closer to Programming, Planning & Practice. I placed Schematic Design in the second batch, because I suspect there may be a lag time in a pass/fail response, since it is all graphic. Actually all exams have a graphic component now, so in general the pass/fail letters may take longer than the two to four weeks mentioned on the forum. So essentially I’ll be studying for three exams for two to three months and then take three exams about two weeks apart. I have to throw a disclaimer on this. I will reschedule, if I think I’m not ready.
PPI
Sketchbook Project