Studying for the PE
Studying for the PE
(OP)
This is not a thread on "How do I study" as that's not really what I need to know. I'm not eligible to take the test until October of 2013, but I have considered getting materials together and working my way through the CERM and other references. I realize some folks may say it's too early/too much/etc, but I've got my reasoning for wanting to do that.
My study decisions aside, I'm curious as to if buying reference materials now is smart. The 12th ed. of the CERM just came out March of 2011, and the 11th ed. was back in 2008. Is it safe to assume that same release schedule for updates? The same goes for various exam prep books (with practice material and the likes). I realize those are probably more prone to more frequent re-releases, but would I find myself ill-prepared if I bought some sooner than later?
I appreciate the help!
My study decisions aside, I'm curious as to if buying reference materials now is smart. The 12th ed. of the CERM just came out March of 2011, and the 11th ed. was back in 2008. Is it safe to assume that same release schedule for updates? The same goes for various exam prep books (with practice material and the likes). I realize those are probably more prone to more frequent re-releases, but would I find myself ill-prepared if I bought some sooner than later?
I appreciate the help!





RE: Studying for the PE
Go to the ncees website http://ncees.org/Exams/PE_exam.php click on the specific exam and review the BREADTH and DEPTH exam specifications and compare it to the Table on Contents of the CERM.
Personally, I would get the CERM and start studying and gathering and using my references. The more familiar you are with them the better off you will be.
Richard www.6sproductivitycom.com
RE: Studying for the PE
RE: Studying for the PE
The biggest thing i see (assuming you know engineering) is knowing where the key formulas are in your books, I.E. having practiced using them, because time is not your friend.
RE: Studying for the PE
RE: Studying for the PE
RE: Studying for the PE
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http://www.ncees.org/Exams/PE_exam.php
Interesting that you are taking the civil-structural exam. I took my exam in October 2004. My jurisdiction required me to take the now extinct Structural I examination. Is there a specific reason why you are not taking the full structural examination, jurisdictional requirements maybe?
RE: Studying for the PE
@SteelPE The reason I'm not taking the Structural exam is because of what I do for a living. Realistically, I don't do enough classical design to feel comfortable with the material being tested. I could possibly take it at a later date, but passing the PE is my first order of business!
RE: Studying for the PE
What happens if you pass the exam but and then in the future take the structural exam and fail? What happens to your license?
This is something I have wondered about with my license. If I were to go an take the structural exam for another state and fail, would I loose my license in the stated I am currently registered? I understand the reasoning for the more in depth examinations..... but it appears that they are making a mess out of the requirements on the structural side of things.
RE: Studying for the PE
RE: Studying for the PE
Back on subject. I don't know what their cycles are for replacing codes, but I would imagine that they would make a few switches between now and October 2013 (like switching the AISC code).
You might also want to consider picking up the SERM as well.
RE: Studying for the PE
I took the Civil-Structural combination for the Civil PE exam in October 2011 and passed it. Following are my thoughts:
Morning section: Although I had about a dozen books with me, I ended up using only CERM 11th edition. I did not use any reference codes such as IBC, ASCE 7, AISC or ACI since the morning section tests your general understanding of civil engineering principles. Sections on Construction, Geotech, Structural, Transportation and Water & Environmental where all answered by CERM 11th edition.
Afternoon section: I did not use CERM for the afternoon section at all, since almost all of the questions involved looking up relevant sections in different codes. Sections on Loadings were answered by ASCE 7. Sections on Lateral loadings like wind and Earthquake were answered by ASCE 7 and IBC. Make sure you study and tab all the sections and be familiar with even the footnotes below tables and charts. Questions on Steel, Timber, Masonry and Concrete are answered by AISC, NDS, ACI 530 and ACI 318 respectively.
In addition the practice problems provided in "NCEES: Civil Structural Sample Questions and Solutions" and "Six Minute Solutions for Civil PE Exam Structural Problems" helped me immensely. These books helped me study different sections of different codes which are not dealt by CERM 11th edition.
Hope this helps and good luck to you.