Hello, I recently failed the PDD exam, and I believe the main challenge for me was the case studies. I’d really appreciate any tips on tactic and how to effectively prepare for it.
When it comes to the case studies, I often find it difficult to understand exactly what the questions are asking—even when I have enough time. Sometimes they seem overly simple or too vague, which makes me second-guess myself and feel like I’m misinterpreting the intent of the question.
Hi @giyoungoh,
I’m so sorry to hear about your PDD result. I know how hard you’ve been studying!
Those case studies can be so tricky, and you’re definitely not the only one who struggles with them. Have you attended any of our Virtual Workshops? These hands-on, interactive sessions give you the opportunity to work through the most difficult ARE topics with peers and a registered architect coach. They are structured similarly to a case study, where you are presented with a scenario and references to navigate when tackling challenging questions. Members find them very useful for gaining various perspectives and practicing different strategies for approaching case studies.
Please let me know if there is anything we can do to assist you as you prepare for your retake.
Keep your head up! You got this!
Kiara Galicinao, AIA, NCARB
Black Spectacles