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.