In this episode, David and Eric break down what it really takes to pass the Architect Registration Exam (ARE) in 2026. They walk through the six ARE divisions, explain how to sequence exams for momentum, and outline a realistic study approach designed for busy professionals — not full-time students.

This episode is about starting, building consistency, and treating the ARE like a professional process instead of an academic mountain to climb.

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Show Notes

A clear overview of the six ARE divisions:

Practice Management (PcM)

Project Management (PjM)

Construction & Evaluation (CE)

Programming & Analysis (PA)

Project Planning & Design (PPD)

Project Development & Documentation (PDD)

Why the first three exams are often grouped as professional practice

How the design-focused exams differ in scale and mindset

Why consistency beats perfection when studying

A realistic study rhythm: about 1 hour a day, 6 days a week

Why retaking the same exam repeatedly often leads to worse results

How taking a new exam every two months keeps momentum strong

Why scheduling exams in advance changes your mindset and outcomes

Don’t wait until you “feel ready” — readiness comes from motion

Treat the ARE like a professional obligation, not a school test

Daily, predictable study habits outperform long, irregular sessions

Momentum matters more than any single exam result

Set up your NCARB Council Record and obtain authorization to test

Schedule your first ARE exam for about six weeks out

Map out all six exams across the year to create a clear roadmap

Use reliable study resources to support consistency, not overwhelm

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