Study Materials To Help You Pass ARE 5.0® Project Planning & Design

Our ARE® 5.0 Project Planning & Design (PPD) study materials are the first-ever to be approved by NCARB. Prepare for the exam with video lectures, practice exams and flashcards. Prepare on your own schedule, or in one of our structured groups, or with a private tutor. All materials are designed by ARE veterans and built in alignment with NCARB’s exam objectives.

About Project Planning & Design

Project Planning & Design (PPD) covers a project’s schematic design phase — the first stages of site and building design. Our NCARB-approved study materials dig into building systems, materials and assemblies. We cover how to determine environmental conditions and understand project costs. Wrap your head around sustainable principles, governing codes and regulations and integrating building codes.

PPD Division Study Materials & Resources

Video Lectures

Instructor Mike Newman comprehensively (and non boring-ly) covers all PPD exam objectives. He explains special systems, neighborhood context and program requirements. At the end of each lecture, stay tuned for Practical Applications videos to see how a real-life project relates back to the exam.

Learn More

Practical Applications

Become a PPD aficionado as you learn about building materials and structures. Watch as an architect describes the site analysis and structural systems involved in their project for pavilion project in Dallas, Texas. Available with your Pro Subscription.

Learn More

Practice Exams

Our practice exams mirror the real PPD division exam and cover the same objectives and include 3 forms to practice from. We use the same types of questions, and topics cover structural systems, firewalls and budgetary requirements. Unpack every question with additional material that ties back to exam objectives.

Learn More

Digital Flashcards

Master these flashcards, and you’ll be well-versed in everything from azimuths and rough grading to metes and bounds. Flashcards offer a comprehensive dive into all things Project Planning & Design. It’s easy to add your own cards to the mix. All on your phone, so you can study anywhere.

Learn More

Choose How You Want To Study

Study On Your Own

Already have a plan of attack? Sign up for one of our ARE Prep Subscriptions and get access to what you need. You can use all of our tools anytime, anywhere. Watch videos while cooking dinner, take an exam with your coffee, and review flashcards on your evening commute. Your study materials are always at your fingertips.

Group Coaching

Looking for a plan & help? Apply for our Group Coaching program to get the structure, support, and accountability you need to tackle the ARE. Use your day-by-day syllabus, dedicated coach, and committed peers to master all 6 divisions. Our PRO subscription is included so you have access to lectures, practical applications, practice exams, and flashcards.

Learn more

Try It Out First

Everything should come with a test drive, including your study materials! Click the button below to get an inside look at your dashboard and test out our videos, practice exams, and flashcards. We want you to love what you’re using to tackle the ARE.

Try It Out

Testimonial

“Black Spectacles is able to cut the information down to what is important to the ARE.”

- Ronald Brinkman, Leo A Daly

Get Access Today & Start On The Path To Passing The ARE 5.0

NCARB Approved Test Prep

Black Spectacles is the first and only NCARB Approved Test Prep Provider for all 6 divisions of ARE 5.0.

< How To Get A Job In Architecture

Top 10 Tips to Pass the ARE! >