ARE Live

Learn more about Black Spectacles ARE 5.0 exam prep here: https://www.blackspectacles.com/pricing?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=are_live_podcast On this episode of ARE Live, Black Spectacles hosts a discussion on why and how to pursue licensure in 2026. You'll learn what licensure means for your career, its benefits, and the steps to becoming a licensed architect. Timestamps: 4:33 - Why you should become a licensed architect 12:01 - How to become a licensed architect 24:48 - Live Q&A See previous episodes or register for the next ARE Live at https://www.blackspectacles.com/podcast

Learn more about Black Spectacles ARE 5.0 exam prep here: https://www.blackspectacles.com/pricing?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=are_live_podcast Join Black Spectacles and architect Chris Hopstock to learn the best study strategies for passing the PPD exam. On this episode of ARE Live, we walk through a mock exam for the Project Planning & Design division of the ARE 5.0. You'll learn about the PPD exam and we'll cover knowledge and skills related to identifying next steps for site subdivision, using crickets to divert water on steep roofs, selecting roof membranes for curved, low-slope conditions, coordinating consultants for shop power, noise, and ventilation and detailing cavity walls for proper drainage performance. Timestamps: 04:30 - Question No. 1 16:46 - Question No. 2 22:48 - Question No. 3 30:44 - Question No. 4 36:39 - Question No. 5 See previous episodes or register for the next ARE Live at https://www.blackspectacles.com/podcast

Save 30% on CSE Exam Prep: https://www.blackspectacles.com/cse-pricing?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=cse_live_podcast In this episode of CSE Live, Black Spectacles hosts a mock exam on the California Supplemental Exam focused on Contract Development, Project Planning, Construction Documents, Permitting, Project Bidding & Construction. Timestamps: 3:09 - Question No. 1 5:45- Question No. 2 7:51 - Question No. 3 9:45 - Question No. 4 11:19 - Question No. 5 See previous episodes of CSE Live at https://www.blackspectacles.com/podcast/cse-live

Save 30% on ARE 5.0 exam prep: https://www.blackspectacles.com/pricing?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=are_live_podcast Join Black Spectacles and architect Chris Hopstock to learn the best study strategies for passing the PcM exam. On this episode of ARE Live, we walk through a mock exam for the Practice Management division of the ARE 5.0. You'll learn about the PcM exam and we'll cover topics related to demonstrating firm qualifications in response to RFPs, structuring fees based on risk and services, navigating copyright and ownership of design documents, identifying appropriate additional services for scheduling issues and managing reuse and licensing of construction documents. Timestamps: 4:53 - Question No. 1 13:52 - Question No. 2 21:30 - Question No. 3 29:09 - Question No. 4 41:14 - Question No. 5 See previous episodes or register for the next ARE Live at https://www.blackspectacles.com/podcast

Learn more about ARE 5.0 exam prep here: https://www.blackspectacles.com/pricing. Join Black Spectacles and architect Chris Hopstock to learn the best study strategies for passing the PDD exam. On this episode of ARE Live, we walk through a mock exam for the Project Development & Documentation division of the ARE 5.0. You'll learn about the PDD exam and we'll cover topics related to evaluating insulation assemblies for code compliance, selecting specification type based on performance goals, writing specifications with proprietary product alternates, choosing elevator controls for residential mid-rise and specifying durable, low-maintenance materials for schools. Timestamps: 5:30 - Question No. 1 14:07 - Question No. 2 26:57 - Question No. 3 34:02 - Question No. 4 36:57 - Question No. 5 See previous episodes or register for the next ARE Live at https://www.blackspectacles.com/podcast

Save 10% on CSE Exam Prep here: https://www.blackspectacles.com/cse-pricing. In this episode of CSE Live, Black Spectacles hosts a mock exam on the California Supplemental Exam focused on Schematic Design & Discretionary Approval! Timestamps: 4:12 - Question No. 1 7:53 - Question No. 2 11:11 - Question No. 3 16:34 - Question No. 4 19:38 - Question No. 5 See previous episodes or register for the next CSE Live at https://www.blackspectacles.com/podcast/cse-live

Learn more about ARE 5.0 exam prep here: https://www.blackspectacles.com/pricing. Join Black Spectacles and architect Chris Hopstock to learn the best study strategies for passing the CE exam. On this episode of ARE Live, we walk through a mock exam for the Construction & Evaluation division of the ARE 5.0. You'll learn about the CE exam and we'll cover topics related to evaluating weather delays and contractor time extensions, calculating liquidated damages from construction delays, resolving conflicts in construction documents and execution, addressing hazardous materials found during excavation and managing submittal responsibilities and delay claims. Timestamps: 5:37 - Question No. 1 13:44 - Question No. 2 29:42 - Question No. 3 38:20 - Question No. 4 54:17 - Question No. 5 See previous episodes or register for the next ARE Live at https://www.blackspectacles.com/podcast

Save 10% on CSE Exam Prep here: https://www.blackspectacles.com/cse-pricing. In this episode of CSE Live, Black Spectacles breaks down some of the most important and commonly misunderstood sections of the California Supplemental Exam (CSE). Learn what you need to know about the Architects Practice Act, California Building Code, and essential contract fundamentals (like B101 and A201), plus how these topics appear in real-world architecture scenarios. Timestamps: 4:51 - Contract Development and Project Planning 6:16 - Schematic Design and Discretionary Approvals 20:51 - Construction Documents and Permitting 22:48 - Project Bidding and Construction 24:07 - Live Q&A See previous episodes or register for the next CSE Live at https://www.blackspectacles.com/podcast/cse-live

Learn more about ARE 5.0 exam prep here: https://www.blackspectacles.com/pricing. Save 10% on CSE exam prep here: https://www.blackspectacles.com/cse-pricing. Join Black Spectacles and architect Chris Hopstock to learn the best study strategies for passing the PA exam. On this episode of ARE Live, we walk through a mock exam for the Programming & Analysis division of the ARE 5.0. You'll learn about the PA exam and we'll cover topics related to determining required survey types for zoning compliance, identifying structural updates from demolition scope, evaluating diagrams against programmatic client requirements, addressing zoning and scope changes in multifamily projects and choosing foundations for sloped and sensitive sites. Timestamps: 04:55 - Question No. 1 9:17 - Question No. 2 17:45 - Question No. 3 21:50 - Question No. 4 28:50 - Question No. 5 See previous episodes or register for the next ARE Live at https://www.blackspectacles.com/podcast

Save 10% on CSE Exam Prep here: https://www.blackspectacles.com/cse-pricing. In this episode of CSE Live, Black Spectacles breaks down what’s on the CSE, the key content areas covered on the exam, and proven study strategies to help you prepare effectively. Timestamps: 5:34 - What's on the CSE? 10:43 - Key Content Areas on the CSE 16:25 - Smart Study Strategies to Pass the CSE on Your First Try 23:25 - Live Q&A See previous episodes or register for the next CSE Live at https://www.blackspectacles.com/podcast/cse-live

Learn more about ARE 5.0 exam prep here: https://www.blackspectacles.com/pricing. Join Black Spectacles and architect Chris Hopstock for ARE Live to learn the best study strategies for passing the PjM exam. On this episode of ARE Live, we walk through a mock exam for the Project Management division of the ARE 5.0. You'll learn about the PjM exam and we'll cover topics related to assessing criteria required to tracking labor overages against work plan budget, calculating billable rates using net multiplier, selecting proper change documentation method, identifying required consultants for project type and coordinating submittals for upcoming construction phase. Timestamps: 05:04 - Question No. 1 9:58 - Question No. 2 16:01 - Question No. 3 20:48 - Question No. 4 35:00 - Question No. 5 See previous episodes or register for the next ARE Live at https://www.blackspectacles.com/podcast

Learn more about CSE Exam Prep here: https://www.blackspectacles.com/cse-exam-prep. On this episode of CSE Live, Black Spectacles hosts a discussion on how to become a licensed architect in California including each step you need to take to become a licensed architect, how to pass the ARE 5.0 and the additional steps needed for licensure in California. Timestamps: 4:19 - How to become a licensed architect 7:05 - How to pass the ARE 5.0 12:40 - New California Supplemental Exam Course from Black Spectacles 16:10 - Additional steps needed for licensure in California 27:06 - Live Q&A See previous episodes or register for the next CSE Live at https://www.blackspectacles.com/podcast/cse-live

Join Black Spectacles and architect Chris Hopstock to learn the best study strategies for passing the PPD exam. On this episode of ARE Live, we walk through a mock exam for the Project Planning & Design division of the ARE 5.0. You'll learn about the PPD exam and we'll cover knowledge and skills related to evaluating site topography and its impact on design decisions, incorporating stormwater management and grading in site planning, integrating structural systems based on program and form, evaluating structural systems relative to spatial requirements & function and applying code and program requirements to unit layouts. Timestamps: 04:25 - Question No. 1 9:24 - Question No. 2 13:33 - Question No. 3 20:44 - Question No. 4 27:59 - Question No. 5 See previous episodes or register for the next ARE Live at https://www.blackspectacles.com/podcast

Learn more about Black Spectacles ARE 5.0 exam prep here: https://www.blackspectacles.com/pricing. Join Black Spectacles and architect Chris Hopstock to learn the best study strategies for passing the PcM exam. On this episode of ARE Live, we walk through a mock exam for the Practice Management division of the ARE 5.0. You'll learn about the PcM exam and we'll cover topics related to disclosing conflicts of interest in public advocacy, calculating not-to-exceed fees with contingency, choosing fee structures for different project phases, identifying non-billable vs. billable work tasks and determining utilization rate from weekly timesheets. Timestamps: 3:50 - Question No. 1 7:58 - Question No. 2 16:48 - Question No. 3 32:14 - Question No. 4 37:48 - Question No. 5 See previous episodes or register for the next ARE Live at https://www.blackspectacles.com/podcast

Learn more about Black Spectacles ARE 5.0 exam prep here: https://www.blackspectacles.com/pricing. Join Black Spectacles and architect Chris Hopstock to learn the best study strategies for passing the PDD exam. On this episode of ARE Live, we walk through a mock exam for the Project Development & Documentation division of the ARE 5.0. You'll learn about the PDD exam and we'll cover topics related to conflict resolution in contract documents, structural load calculation, roofing material selection within budget constraints, plumbing venting compliance and occupancy separation and fire ratings. Timestamps: 6:25 - Question No. 1 9:26 - Question No. 2 15:07 - Question No. 3 19:30 - Question No. 4 22:40 - Question No. 5 26:52 - Live Q&A See previous episodes or register for the next ARE Live at https://www.blackspectacles.com/podcast

Learn more about Black Spectacles ARE 5.0 exam prep here: https://www.blackspectacles.com/pricing. Sign up for the next ARE Live episode for a PDD Mock Exam: https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/4702948128588246106 On this episode of ARE Live, Black Spectacles hosts a discussion on study tactics to pass the ARE 5.0 on your first try. You'll learn what study tactics to pass the ARE 5.0, how to take advantage of Black Spectacles suite of study materials and how to study to pass the ARE 5.0 exams. Timestamps: 4:59 - How to take advantage of Black Spectacles suite of study materials 19:35 - How to study to pass the ARE 5.0 exams 25:46 - Study strategies to pass the ARE 5.0 27:39 - Live Q&A See previous episodes or register for the next ARE Live at https://www.blackspectacles.com/podcast

Save 15% off any membership using code PASS15 at checkout, valid until March 19th, 2025. Click here to purchase: https://www.blackspectacles.com/pricing. Sign up for the next ARE Live episode on Study Tactics to Pass the ARE 5.0 On Your First Try: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/8920955107590185048 On this episode of ARE Live, Black Spectacles hosts a discussion on why and how to pass the ARE 5 0 in 2025. You'll learn what order to take the exams in, how much time to study for each division, how to approach certain types of questions and more! Timestamps: 4:54 - How to pass the ARE 5.0 in 2025 6:21 - How to apply your knowledge and experience to the exam format 7:20 - How to understand the ARE 5.0 item types 8:31 - How to combat external stressors 14:22 - What order to take the ARE 5.0 18:50 - Live Q&A See previous episodes or register for the next ARE Live at https://www.blackspectacles.com/podcast

On this episode of ARE Live, Black Spectacles hosts a discussion on why and how to pursue licensure in 2025. You'll learn what licensure means for your career, its benefits, and the steps to becoming a licensed architect. Timestamps: 4:34 - Why you should become a licensed architect 7:13 - How to become a licensed architect 12:08 - Live Q&A See previous episodes or register for the next ARE Live at https://www.blackspectacles.com/podcast

Save 15% off any ARE 5.0 exam prep membership using code CELIVE15 at checkout, valid until January 14, 2025: https://www.blackspectacles.com/pricing. Join Black Spectacles and architect Chris Hopstock to learn the best study strategies for passing the CE exam. On this episode of ARE Live, we walk through a mock exam for the Construction & Evaluation division of the ARE 5.0. You'll learn about the CE exam and we'll cover topics related to assisting clients in selecting contractors, assisting owners in preparing owner-contractor agreements and knowledge of principles of value engineering. Timestamps: 10:26 - Question No. 1 17:25 - Question No. 2 21:16 - Question No. 3 26:18 - Question No. 4 31:51 - Question No. 5 See previous episodes or register for the next ARE Live at https://www.blackspectacles.com/podcast

Save 30% off any membership until December 2nd, discount auto-applied at checkout: https://www.blackspectacles.com/pricing. Join Black Spectacles and architect Chris Hopstock to learn the best study strategies for passing the PPD exam. On this episode of ARE Live, we walk through a mock exam for the Project Planning & Design division of the ARE 5.0. You'll learn about the PPD exam and we'll cover topics related to knowledge of protocols and procedures for conducting a code analysis, knowledge of building codes and their impact on building design and knowledge of preparing code analysis documentation. Timestamps: 06:48 - Question No. 1 12:28 - Question No. 2 18:01 - Question No. 3 23:53 - Question No. 4 29:21 - Question No. 5 See previous episodes or register for the next ARE Live at https://www.blackspectacles.com/podcast