# Latest **URL:** https://community.blackspectacles.com/latest.md?page=1 [Latest](https://community.blackspectacles.com/latest.md) · [Categories](https://community.blackspectacles.com/categories.md) · [Tags](https://community.blackspectacles.com/tags.md) **Page:** 2 --- ## [Important concepts from IBC](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/important-concepts-from-ibc/7909)
**Author:** [@kdpachon](https://community.blackspectacles.com/u/kdpachon)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [August 26, 2026, 9:58pm UTC](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/important-concepts-from-ibc/7909 "2026-08-26T21:58:02Z")
Any suggestions on what concepts are important to understand and memorize from the IBC specific to objective 2.2? Since I have seen some questions on the practice exams that specifically test you about your knowledge on … --- ## [CE Section 3 Quiz, Question 8 Fire Sprinkler Photo (65039)](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/ce-section-3-quiz-question-8-fire-sprinkler-photo-65039/7904)
**Author:** [@neftalihernandezjr](https://community.blackspectacles.com/u/neftalihernandezjr)\ **Replies:** 1\ **Last updated:** [August 17, 2026, 5:33pm UTC](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/ce-section-3-quiz-question-8-fire-sprinkler-photo-65039/7904 "2026-08-17T17:33:53Z")
The photo and question, along with the answer provided is rather confusing. For one, the bottom right sprinkler in the ceiling does not appear to be installed. Could be a photo angle issue but still seems like a potentia… --- ## [How to practically use brown sheets in the new millennium?](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/how-to-practically-use-brown-sheets-in-the-new-millennium/6207)
**Author:** [@kinney.bresheena](https://community.blackspectacles.com/u/kinney.bresheena)\ **Replies:** 2\ **Last updated:** [August 15, 2026, 5:13pm UTC](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/how-to-practically-use-brown-sheets-in-the-new-millennium/6207 "2026-08-15T17:13:44Z")
PA Quiz Break 13 - features a question that suggests the use of a drawing tool I am learning for the first time called a brownsheet? On page 206 of the Problem Seeking Book, there is an example of it? Apparently from… --- ## [PCM - AIA Contracts Question](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/pcm-aia-contracts-question/7895)
**Author:** [@Lance\_Garcia](https://community.blackspectacles.com/u/Lance_Garcia)\ **Replies:** 2\ **Last updated:** [August 14, 2026, 1:22pm UTC](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/pcm-aia-contracts-question/7895 "2026-08-14T13:22:30Z")
PCM Question: The videos for Section 2 focus only on the B101, but one of the questions on the Section 2 quiz references the A201. Which contracts and documents should I be familiar with for the PCM exam? @coachthomasma… --- ## [ARE Live: PjM Practice Exam August 2026](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/are-live-pjm-practice-exam-august-2026/7894)
**Author:** [@patrickfinnigan](https://community.blackspectacles.com/u/patrickfinnigan)\ **Replies:** 15\ **Last updated:** [August 12, 2026, 5:46pm UTC](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/are-live-pjm-practice-exam-august-2026/7894 "2026-08-12T17:46:51Z")
Join Black Spectacles and architect Chris Hopstock on Wednesday, August 12th at noon CT for a deep dive into the Project Management division with a mock practice exam on this episode of ARE Live! Click here to watch ARE… --- ## [Insulation inside a duct - yes or no](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/insulation-inside-a-duct-yes-or-no/7870)
**Author:** [@estherilatova](https://community.blackspectacles.com/u/estherilatova)\ **Replies:** 1\ **Last updated:** [August 11, 2026, 8:36pm UTC](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/insulation-inside-a-duct-yes-or-no/7870 "2026-08-11T20:36:36Z")
Is insulation inside a duct for the purposes of the ARE 5.0 PPD exam a resolution for reducing sound/noise within a duct? I vaguely remember mike newman mentioning this in the old PPD videos, but do not remember if he me… --- ## [The Impact of Project Delivery](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/the-impact-of-project-delivery/7867)
**Author:** [@rolandojoseph77](https://community.blackspectacles.com/u/rolandojoseph77)\ **Replies:** 1\ **Last updated:** [August 11, 2026, 8:34pm UTC](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/the-impact-of-project-delivery/7867 "2026-08-11T20:34:03Z")
Can you explain why Bridging is a variant of Design-Build, when in DB there is no bidding, but in Bridging, the owner uses the plans to solicit bids? --- ## [PPD | Understanding Structural Systems and Seismic Impact of Design \[Exercise A\]](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/ppd-understanding-structural-systems-and-seismic-impact-of-design-exercise-a/7612)
**Author:** [@kiaragalicinao](https://community.blackspectacles.com/u/kiaragalicinao)\ **Replies:** 2\ **Last updated:** [August 11, 2026, 8:32pm UTC](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/ppd-understanding-structural-systems-and-seismic-impact-of-design-exercise-a/7612 "2026-08-11T20:32:04Z")
This thread is part of Real-World Practice, our self-paced, case study feature that helps you apply your knowledge in realistic scenarios using references, layered questions, and targeted takeaways. View the exercise he… --- ## [Occupant load question](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/occupant-load-question/7891)
**Author:** [@mahsa\_vanaki](https://community.blackspectacles.com/u/mahsa_vanaki)\ **Replies:** 1\ **Last updated:** [August 11, 2026, 8:21pm UTC](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/occupant-load-question/7891 "2026-08-11T20:21:42Z")
why is the lobby is not calculated in occupance load? the area is given 100 sf! @kiaragalicinao question 6, real world practice PPD / calculating MEP systems, exercise A --- ## [CE Section 3 Quiz question](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/ce-section-3-quiz-question/7888)
**Author:** [@sedona.quimby](https://community.blackspectacles.com/u/sedona.quimby)\ **Replies:** 3\ **Last updated:** [August 11, 2026, 7:49pm UTC](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/ce-section-3-quiz-question/7888 "2026-08-11T19:49:13Z")
Hello, I am having trouble understanding the wording of this question in the section 3 quiz. It is # 67681 and asks: During the preconstruction phase, the architect receives a list of value engineering (VE) items in or… --- ## [Financial formulas](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/financial-formulas/7893)
**Author:** [@dmroze](https://community.blackspectacles.com/u/dmroze)\ **Replies:** 1\ **Last updated:** [August 11, 2026, 7:46pm UTC](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/financial-formulas/7893 "2026-08-11T19:46:10Z")
Hello, Are the financial formulas (quick ratios, utilization rates…etc.) provided on the ARE? Thank you. --- ## [PjM | Developing a Work Plan \[Exercise B\]](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/pjm-developing-a-work-plan-exercise-b/7632)
**Author:** [@kiaragalicinao](https://community.blackspectacles.com/u/kiaragalicinao)\ **Replies:** 7\ **Last updated:** [August 7, 2026, 6:47pm UTC](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/pjm-developing-a-work-plan-exercise-b/7632 "2026-08-07T18:47:03Z")
This thread is part of Real-World Practice, our self-paced, case study feature that helps you apply your knowledge in realistic scenarios using references, layered questions, and targeted takeaways. View the exercise he… --- ## [PPD Exam 2 - Item #105709](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/ppd-exam-2-item-105709/7882)
**Author:** [@ema.markovska](https://community.blackspectacles.com/u/ema.markovska)\ **Replies:** 2\ **Last updated:** [August 7, 2026, 6:40pm UTC](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/ppd-exam-2-item-105709/7882 "2026-08-07T18:40:54Z")
The correct answer is D, which orients the courtyard to the west to take advantage of the prevailing breeze. However, wouldn’t this also allow hot outdoor air into the building? In a hot arid climate, shouldn’t the goal … --- ## [CE | Understanding Key Elements of Bidding \[Exercise B\]](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/ce-understanding-key-elements-of-bidding-exercise-b/7599)
**Author:** [@kiaragalicinao](https://community.blackspectacles.com/u/kiaragalicinao)\ **Replies:** 9\ **Last updated:** [August 7, 2026, 6:00pm UTC](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/ce-understanding-key-elements-of-bidding-exercise-b/7599 "2026-08-07T18:00:31Z")
This thread is part of Real-World Practice, our self-paced, case study feature that helps you apply your knowledge in realistic scenarios using references, layered questions, and targeted takeaways. View the exercise he… --- ## [PDD Section 1 Quiz, Question 20](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/pdd-section-1-quiz-question-20/7885)
**Author:** [@ema.markovska](https://community.blackspectacles.com/u/ema.markovska)\ **Replies:** 1\ **Last updated:** [August 7, 2026, 5:54pm UTC](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/pdd-section-1-quiz-question-20/7885 "2026-08-07T17:54:53Z")
I know the correct answer is based on one of the NCARB study resources, but it seems like that information is outdated. There are now high-performance LED fixtures on the market with efficacies of around 200 lm/W, which … --- ## [PCM Section 3 - Confused by correct answers](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/pcm-section-3-confused-by-correct-answers/7886)
**Author:** [@jcoats](https://community.blackspectacles.com/u/jcoats)\ **Replies:** 1\ **Last updated:** [August 7, 2026, 5:51pm UTC](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/pcm-section-3-confused-by-correct-answers/7886 "2026-08-07T17:51:18Z")
The question reads: "A startup firm is interested in developing their service offerings to include design-build and construction management services. What benefits might the firm experience by offering these new service… --- ## [PDD QUIZ BREAK 12 - Question 4](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/pdd-quiz-break-12-question-4/7887)
**Author:** [@ema.markovska](https://community.blackspectacles.com/u/ema.markovska)\ **Replies:** 1\ **Last updated:** [August 7, 2026, 5:46pm UTC](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/pdd-quiz-break-12-question-4/7887 "2026-08-07T17:46:19Z")
The correct answer assumes the architect knows the specification of the existing glazing, in which case a proprietary specification would be appropriate. In reality though, that information is often not available, so a d… --- ## [In what scenarios using IPD would you use the C191 contract versus A195, B195, and A295 contracts?](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/in-what-scenarios-using-ipd-would-you-use-the-c191-contract-versus-a195-b195-and-a295-contracts/7881)
**Author:** [@wan.andrea](https://community.blackspectacles.com/u/wan.andrea)\ **Replies:** 3\ **Last updated:** [August 7, 2026, 5:33pm UTC](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/in-what-scenarios-using-ipd-would-you-use-the-c191-contract-versus-a195-b195-and-a295-contracts/7881 "2026-08-07T17:33:42Z")
I understand that C191 is considered a “true” contract that is signed by all parties involved (the owner, the architect, and the contractor), whereas the alternative method uses A195 between the owner/contractor, and B19… --- ## [Clarification Requested on "Cant Strip"](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/clarification-requested-on-cant-strip/7868)
**Author:** [@elie](https://community.blackspectacles.com/u/elie)\ **Replies:** 3\ **Last updated:** [July 31, 2026, 5:10pm UTC](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/clarification-requested-on-cant-strip/7868 "2026-07-31T17:10:09Z")
Hello, I came across what I believe may be an issue in PA Mock Exam #3 regarding a question about detailing the roof-to-gutter assembly to avoid material reactions (galvanic corrosion). The correct answer identifies a … --- ## [Submit the plans for permit](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/submit-the-plans-for-permit/7884)
**Author:** [@lrivera0125](https://community.blackspectacles.com/u/lrivera0125)\ **Replies:** 1\ **Last updated:** [July 30, 2026, 10:19pm UTC](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/submit-the-plans-for-permit/7884 "2026-07-30T22:19:24Z")
Is it appropriate to submit drawings to the AHJ to obtain the building permit (once the CD phase is completed) even though they don’t yet have the final approved by the owner? --- ## [Mechanical System Sizing + Layout Video](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/mechanical-system-sizing-layout-video/7883)
**Author:** [@ema.markovska](https://community.blackspectacles.com/u/ema.markovska)\ **Replies:** 1\ **Last updated:** [July 29, 2026, 3:14pm UTC](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/mechanical-system-sizing-layout-video/7883 "2026-07-29T15:14:16Z")
The Mechanical System Sizing + Layout video shows a packaged terminal unit (PTAC) as an example of a fan coil unit (FCU). The diagram also shows the units penetrating the exterior wall, which is characteristic of a PTAC … --- ## [PcM | Understanding Standard of Care \[Exercise B\]](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/pcm-understanding-standard-of-care-exercise-b/7640)
**Author:** [@kiaragalicinao](https://community.blackspectacles.com/u/kiaragalicinao)\ **Replies:** 4\ **Last updated:** [July 29, 2026, 2:50pm UTC](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/pcm-understanding-standard-of-care-exercise-b/7640 "2026-07-29T14:50:01Z")
This thread is part of Real-World Practice, our self-paced, case study feature that helps you apply your knowledge in realistic scenarios using references, layered questions, and targeted takeaways. View the exercise he… --- ## [ARE Live: CE Practice Exam July 2026](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/are-live-ce-practice-exam-july-2026/7871)
**Author:** [@patrickfinnigan](https://community.blackspectacles.com/u/patrickfinnigan)\ **Replies:** 15\ **Last updated:** [July 15, 2026, 5:49pm UTC](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/are-live-ce-practice-exam-july-2026/7871 "2026-07-15T17:49:17Z")
Join Black Spectacles and architect Chris Hopstock on Wednesday, July 15th at noon CT for a deep dive into the Construction & Evaluation division with a mock practice exam on this episode of ARE Live! Click here to watc… --- ## [CE live session question](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/ce-live-session-question/7880)
**Author:** [@mbravo1](https://community.blackspectacles.com/u/mbravo1)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [July 15, 2026, 5:16pm UTC](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/ce-live-session-question/7880 "2026-07-15T17:16:52Z")
Continuing the discussion from ARE Live: CE Practice Exam July 2026: greetings. just checking if this answer goes thru live --- ## [PPD Exam 1- Item ID #63897](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/ppd-exam-1-item-id-63897/7869)
**Author:** [@ema.markovska](https://community.blackspectacles.com/u/ema.markovska)\ **Replies:** 1\ **Last updated:** [July 13, 2026, 1:19pm UTC](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/ppd-exam-1-item-id-63897/7869 "2026-07-13T13:19:59Z")
The correct answer includes additional costs for General Conditions, Overhead, and Profit to compensate the general contractor (GC) for the increased cost of administering and executing the additional work, while also pr… --- ## [Net Operating Revenue](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/net-operating-revenue/7850)
**Author:** [@Citrillion](https://community.blackspectacles.com/u/Citrillion)\ **Replies:** 3\ **Last updated:** [July 2, 2026, 5:38pm UTC](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/net-operating-revenue/7850 "2026-07-02T17:38:07Z")
@coachchrishopstock @kiaragalicinao @coachpierceallston Is the definition of Net Operating Revenue on p.410 of the AHPP correct? Net Operating Revenue (AHPP p.410) Represents the net dollars remaining after deducting … --- ## [Architect or Consultant Responsibility (C401)](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/architect-or-consultant-responsibility-c401/5271)
**Author:** [@ngolban](https://community.blackspectacles.com/u/ngolban)\ **Replies:** 4\ **Last updated:** [July 2, 2026, 5:35pm UTC](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/architect-or-consultant-responsibility-c401/5271 "2026-07-02T17:35:19Z")
@coachkatebarbaria @coachchrishopstock Per C401, section 1.4, ‘The Architect shall not be responsible for the acts or omissions of the consultant.’.So shouldn’t the electrical engineer be responsible for the delay i… --- ## [Architect evaluation for exam scores / subscriptions](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/architect-evaluation-for-exam-scores-subscriptions/7864)
**Author:** [@christopherbwatkins92](https://community.blackspectacles.com/u/christopherbwatkins92)\ **Replies:** 3\ **Last updated:** [June 30, 2026, 10:28pm UTC](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/architect-evaluation-for-exam-scores-subscriptions/7864 "2026-06-30T22:28:36Z")
I recently failed my PA exam and received an email to connect with a licensed architect to walk through my score card. I had signed up for a meeting with each of the two available architects twice each and all 4 times, t… --- ## [CalGreen Bike parking percentage requirement](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/calgreen-bike-parking-percentage-requirement/7862)
**Author:** [@daedmosi](https://community.blackspectacles.com/u/daedmosi)\ **Replies:** 1\ **Last updated:** [June 30, 2026, 10:26pm UTC](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/calgreen-bike-parking-percentage-requirement/7862 "2026-06-30T22:26:39Z")
Is the CalGreen bike parking requirement 5 percent or 10 percent? Study material says 5 percent, but other web sources say 10 percent. --- ## [Welcome to the PDD Community! \[ START HERE \]](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/welcome-to-the-pdd-community-start-here/6752)
**Author:** [@kiaragalicinao](https://community.blackspectacles.com/u/kiaragalicinao)\ **Replies:** 21\ **Last updated:** [June 30, 2026, 10:23pm UTC](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/welcome-to-the-pdd-community-start-here/6752 "2026-06-30T22:23:11Z")
Have a PDD question? Don’t forget to tag one or more of the below ARE Coaches to get a prompt response from a registered architect, who is an expert in PDD content areas! Project Development & Documentation @coachmar… [Previous page](https://community.blackspectacles.com/latest.md) [Next page](https://community.blackspectacles.com/latest.md?page=2)