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Guided Study Process

Available for Pro and Expert subscriptions. What is it and how does it work?

Jessica Ritter avatar
Written by Jessica Ritter
Updated over 3 weeks ago

What is the Guided Study Process?

Without a clear plan, it’s easy to fall behind or feel unprepared on exam day. Knowing what to study, how to stay on track, and whether you’re retaining the right information can be a challenge.

A Clear Path to Licensure

The Guided Study Process is your daily study plan designed to help you pass your ARE exams on the first try. Developed in collaboration with learning scientists and architects, it ensures you're studying the right content and helps you retain what you learn. With an expert designed study plan, you'll know exactly what to study each day, keeping you on track to pass the ARE in half the time.


How the Guided Study Process Works

Select Your Study Mode:

  • Guided Study: Follow a personalized study plan aligned with your exam schedule to succeed. Available for Pro and Expert subscribers.

  • Flexible Study: Access all study materials and set your own pace. Available for all subscribers.

Select Your Study Plan:

  • Shorter Plan (30 days): Perfect for those who can dedicate 2-3 hours of study daily.

  • Longer Plan (60 days): Ideal for those with busy schedules, aiming to study for at least 30 minutes each day.

Review Your Course Overview:

After selecting your plan, you’ll receive a daily course overview on your dashboard. This guide outlines exactly what you'll study each day, so you can stay organized and on track throughout your preparation.

Begin Your Daily Study

Each study session begins with an engaging video lecture. Once you begin, on the left side of your screen, you’ll find all the additional materials for the day, such as quizzes, flashcards, and practice exams. This comprehensive study approach ensures you retain and apply what you've learned.


Choose your study mode to get started!

You'll see a clear plan for each day, with tasks and days being checked off as they are completed!

Choose Your Study Plan Based on Your Exam Date


Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I access the Guided Study Process?

A: The Guided Study Process is available for Pro and Expert subscriptions.

Q: What’s the difference between Guided and Flexible Study?

A: Guided Study provides a structured plan aligned with your exam schedule, helping you stay on track with daily tasks and milestones. Flexible Study allows you to set your own pace without a structured schedule.

Q: Will I have access to the same study materials in both study modes?

A: Yes. No matter which study mode you choose, you'll have full access to all the study resources included in your membership. The only difference is how you structure your study time.

Q: How do I choose between the Shorter and Longer Study Plans?

A: The Shorter Plan is designed for those who can commit 2-3 hours of study per day and want to move through the material faster. The Longer Plan is ideal for individuals with busier schedules, with around 30 minutes of study each day, but offers a slower pace for more flexibility.

Q: Can I switch between the Shorter and Longer Study Plans?

A: Yes. You can adjust your study plan as needed to fit your schedule and study preferences.

Q: I selected the Flexible study mode but would like to use the Guided Study Process now. Can I change this?

A: Yes. Just navigate back to your homepage and select "Change Study Mode" under your division.

Q: I've already started studying. Will my progress be saved if I switch to the Guided Study Process?

A: Yes. You will be given the option to save your study progress or to start fresh. The choice is yours!

Q: Where are my Practice Exams, Flashcards, etc.?

A: In the guided study process, flashcards are seamlessly integrated into your daily schedule as part of the planned tasks. For example, specific sections like "PA Day 4" might include flashcards for objective 1. In the flexible study mode, you can choose flashcards from the dashboard any time, offering a customizable experience. Both approaches ensure full access to flashcards while allowing you to tailor your study method to your needs.

Q: What should I do if I can't access flashcards?

A: Ensure that you are logged into your account and on an active subscription. If changes were recently made to your study plan, refresh the page or log out and back in. Persistent issues should be directed to Black Spectacles Support for assistance in troubleshooting.


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