Top Architect License Exam Test Taking Tips

Top 10 Tips for Passing the Architect License Exam

Undoubtedly, the crucial step in passing the architecture licensure exam is mastering the content. Yet, keep in mind the ultimate goal: passing the exam! Learning is fantastic, but it’s useless if you can’t apply it due to not passing the test. Here are our top 10 strategies for passing the architecture exam:

1. Embrace the same answer choice in a row.

Don’t be hesitant to choose the same answer letter consecutively. If you’ve chosen “A” for four questions in a row, don’t believe that the next question’s answer can’t be “A”. It happens more often than you think!

2. Don’t keep track of your score during the architecture exam.

Doing so might demoralize you and hamper your overall performance on the architecture licensure examination.

3. Be generous with time utilization.

You’re allocated ample time to complete the exam, and you should leverage as much as needed. Don’t fret if other examinees finish ahead of you. It’s not uncommon for those who rush through to fail.

4. Don’t opt for an answer that’s completely unfamiliar!

If you’ve diligently studied the material, it’s improbable that the correct answer will be a term you’ve never encountered.

5. Do a great deal of practice architecture exam questions.

The exam is multiple choice, and you’ll fare significantly better if you’ve been practicing with tests that simulate the real exam. Rely on a reliable service like our practice exams to prepare for the actual architecture exam. Pure knowledge of the subject matter is often insufficient to pass!

6. Refrain from altering your answer after you’ve marked it.

As a general guideline, once you’ve responded to a test question, don’t amend your answer, even if you’re doubtful about the one you’ve chosen. Statistically, you’re more likely to alter an answer from right to wrong.

7. Start by tackling the simplest questions.

Survey the entire exam, initially answering only the questions that are straightforward and where you have substantial confidence in your response. This method will give you a sense of achievement and subconsciously ponder the skipped questions.

8. Check the answers first.

While proceeding through the exam, glance at the answers first. You should be on the lookout for stand-out keywords and vocabulary terms. If you’ve been using a product like our architecture practice exams or exam videos, this will be easier as we’ve tailored our content to familiarize you with key terms.

9.Skip questions you don’t have an answer for.

Don’t squander time on a question you can’t answer. Ignore questions you don’t know the answer to. For instance, if math is a challenge for you, leave the math problems until after you complete the rest of the exam. Sometimes, the answer to a previous question is disclosed in a subsequent question.

10. Employ reverse engineering to get to the correct answer.

Don’t squander time on a question you can’t answer. Ignore questions you don’t know the answer to. For instance, if math is a challenge for you, leave the math problems until after you complete the rest of the exam. Sometimes, the answer to a previous question is disclosed in a subsequent question.

When You Have to Guess

Regardless of your level of preparation, there will always be certain questions on the Architect Licensure Exam that might stump you, where an educated guess isn’t possible. Follow these strategies to enhance your odds of guessing accurately:

Be cautious with answers that seem exaggerated or overly complex.

If two of the answer options are direct opposites, one of those is likely to be the correct answer.

When faced with multiple answers that seem identical, pick the more detailed one.

The use of non-absolute language such as ‘most’, ‘some’, ‘usually’ is often more likely in a correct answer.

Don’t select an answer that is entirely unfamiliar to you.

Consider the exam wording. Spot words like ‘always’ and ‘never’. These are rarely part of correct responses as few things in the architectural world are ‘always’ or ‘never’ the case.

The term ‘except’ can completely change the meaning of a question. Take note when you see it in a question or any of the answers.

Regardless of certainty, always answer every question. There is no penalty for guessing, and leaving a question unanswered is guaranteed to be marked as wrong.

Tips for the Day of the Exam

It’s common to overlook the small stuff when you’re preoccupied with memorizing critical terms and concepts for the Architect Licensure Exam. Follow these guidelines to alleviate your stress and be mentally prepared for the lengthy examination:

Don’t misplace or forget your Architect Licensure Exam registration documents. Store your paperwork in a conspicuous place, like the glove box of your vehicle that you’ll be taking to the test center.

Ensure that you have an appropriate calculator and that you’re comfortable using it. Ideally, the calculator should be straightforward without any complex functionalities.

Fuel up your car a day prior to the Architect Licensure Exam. This will prevent any last-minute rush to a fuel station on the day of the exam.

Familiarize yourself with the location of the examination center. If necessary, make a reconnaissance trip to the location.

Ensure you have a good night’s sleep on the eve of the exam.

Avoid taking the exam on an empty stomach.

The term ‘except’ can completely change the meaning of a question. Take note when you see it in a question or any of the answers.

Maintain a cheat sheet with miscellaneous information that you find challenging to remember. For instance, if you often forget the number of square feet in an acre, jot it down on your cheat sheet. However, don’t overcomplicate it! Limit your cheat sheet to a single piece of paper. Review your cheat sheet immediately prior to entering the exam hall. This will help the information to be freshly imprinted in your mind as the test begins.