ARE Live is a free monthly live webinar featuring discussions and exercises on ARE division topics. Each episode is led by distinguished architects and industry experts.
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Join the discussion during each live broadcast in our ARE Community. We have a space dedicated to each episode where you can review previous episodes Q&A or join in during a live broadcast.

If you're unable to attend our live monthly broadcast, we post each episode to our ARE Live library within 24-72 hours at blackspectacles.com/podcast

ARE Testing Order & Strategy
Learn how to pass the ARE 5.0 in 2026 with proven study strategies, exam order recommendations, and expert tips from architect Kiara Galicinao.

Study Strategies for Passing the ARE
We speak with a learning expert on the best study tactics and strategies to help you pass the ARE. Making sure you’re using the right methods and motives to retain that information is a really vital component to your studies.

Top 10 Tips for Passing the ARE 5.0

Learn the best study strategies and test-taking tips to pass the ARE 5.0.

How to Become a Licensed Architect
Learn how to become a licensed architect in 2026, including AXP, ARE 5.0, and licensure steps
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​Practice Management (PcM) Practice Exam
Learn about the PcM exam and we'll cover topics related to managing independent contractor roles and firm responsibilities, understanding tax implications of firm ownership structures, evaluating risks and regulations for international practice expansion, identifying standard payroll withholdings for employees and developing work plans for publicly funded housing projects.

Project Management (PjM) Practice Exam
Learn about the PjM exam and we'll cover topics related to assessing criteria required to tracking labor overages against work plan budget, calculating billable rates using net multiplier, selecting proper change documentation method, identifying required consultants for project type and coordinating submittals for upcoming construction phase.
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​Programming & Analysis (PA) Practice Exam
Learn about the PA exam and we'll cover topics related to how to approach value-based judgment questions on the PA exam, how zoning and code requirements impact design decisions, strategies for answering check-all-that-apply questions, how to think through daylighting, efficiency, and programming questions and time management strategies for the ARE 5.0.

​Project Planning & Design (PPD) Practice Exam
Learn about the PPD exam and we'll cover topics related to verifying zoning, programming, and early project requirements, designing for environmental impact and neighbor compatibility, coordinating consultants for underground utility infrastructure, selecting roofing systems for unique building geometries and evaluating material substitutions for cost control.

Project Development & Documentation (PDD) Practice Exam
Review ARE 5.0 PDD practice questions on specifications, insulation, ceiling coordination, and value engineering with architect Chris Hopstock.
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​Construction & Evaluation (CE) Practice Exam
Learn about the CE exam and we'll cover topics related to evaluating weather delays and contractor time extensions, calculating liquidated damages from construction delays, resolving conflicts in construction documents and execution, addressing hazardous materials found during excavation and managing submittal responsibilities and delay claims.