architect54

My progress has improved. I’m meeting under half of my study goals. That’s actually good.

It takes me quite some time to work out a problem. I’m not quick. I learned breaks help me somewhat. Sometimes a break extends too long, but getting up from the desk after 2 or 3 questions seems to help my flow. I’m very slow completing questions.

I’m using R. E. Shaeffer’s Elementary Structures for Architects and Builders. It has a lot of sample problems and answers. If you need help like I do, this is a good supplement to your additional resources. Check out this textbook from a library before purchasing it. It is a listed NCARB resource for the Structural Systems architectural registration exam.

Before I rescheduled recently, conceptually I felt ready for the Structural Systems exam. But every calculation question I did, I answered wrong or didn’t understand what formula or units to use. That had to mean I didn’t fully understand and wasn’t ready. I picked up Elementary Structures for Architects and Builders, 5th Ed., by Ronald E. Shaeffer from the CCNY library. In it he points out the following. “The study of statics and mechanics of materials is best begun through quantitative methods… Experience has shown that qualitative approaches still result in a “demand for numbers” after only a few short weeks, however, so it is just as well to acknowledge it at the beginning.” (5, Shaeffer) Even though I expect a more qualitative/conceptual exam, I must prepare in some quantitative (calculation) ways to reinforce and develop a qualitative (conceptual) understanding.

Thinking about how I’m studying for the Structural Systems portion of the architectural registration exam (ARE), I revised a recent goal list. The list said to complete 10 questions a day from the Structural Systems sample problems and practice exam book. I’m now making it 5 questions a day.

In this book, not including the mock exam, there are 125 questions. 10 questions a day would have taken 13 days. Then I would do the mock exam (another 125 questions) afterwards in one sitting. Now it will take me 25 days and then I’ll take the mock exam.

I have also stopped thinking about passing and failing. Having rescheduled four times, I must think about preparing and taking. It seems I’m lowering my expectations, but at this point I have to find ways to progress. Perhaps with smaller study goals, I’ll be more successful studying. It is not about passing/failing any more. Preparation for and execution of this exam are what matter now. After successfully completing 5 questions a day for a number of days and improving my concentration and understanding, I’ll set my sights back to 10 questions a day or more.