In this article (and video above), I share must-know FE Exam hacks to help you manage stress, master time, and tackle the overwhelming prep. Feeling stuck or doubting yourself? These proven tips will help you overcome every challenge and succeed!
Here’s how to set yourself up for real progress:
Hack #1: Set SMART Goals
Setting SMART goals is essential to effective FE exam prep. Let’s break down what that means. A smart goal is one that is specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound. Let’s explore how you can be smart with your goals for FE exam prep.
Specific: Focus on the FE exam that’s right for you, like FE Mechanical or FE Civil, and define a clear goal for the score you’re aiming for. Look up the average passing score, and set a target that challenges but doesn’t overwhelm you.
Measurable: Track your progress consistently. For example, try solving 20 practice problems from different sections each week, attend review sessions, and analyze your mistakes on mock exams to get better insight into your weak areas.
Attainable: Be realistic. Consider how much time you have each week to study, and avoid setting goals that feel impossible to reach. Aim to challenge yourself but stay within your limits.
Relevant: Make sure your study goals align with your career aspirations and the expectations of future employers. Knowing that your efforts support your career path can make studying feel even more worthwhile.
Time-bound: Set deadlines to keep yourself on track. For example, set specific dates to complete practice problems for each topic. These small milestones build momentum and keep you moving forward.
Hack #2: Build a Positive Structured Study Routine
Building a positive, structured study routine can make a big difference. Here are some tips:
Dedicated Study Space: Create a quiet, organized area where you can study without distractions. Good lighting and a comfortable setup make long study sessions more productive.
Consistent Schedule: Designate specific times each day or week for study, and stick to it. A regular schedule reinforces strong habits.
Mix It Up: Variety is key! Use different study methods like reading, practicing problems, watching online lectures, and joining study groups to keep things engaging and reinforce what you learn.
Take Breaks: Schedule 5-10 minute breaks every hour to stay focused and avoid burnout. Use that time to stretch or do something relaxing.
Reward Yourself: Celebrate the little wins! Whether it’s finishing a challenging problem set or sticking to your schedule, acknowledge your progress. Small rewards, like a break or a treat, go a long way in keeping you motivated.
Hack #3: Use Visualization
Visualization is a powerful way to boost confidence and stay motivated. Picture yourself acing the FE exam, feeling calm and prepared. Visualize the moment you see your passing score and celebrate your hard work. For extra motivation, create a vision board with affirmations, quotes, and images that remind you of your goals. You might even write out your name on a sticky note with the credential EIT after it and post it on your monitor, so you are staring at it all day.
Hack #4: Embrace a Growth Mindset
Approach challenges as opportunities to grow. Believe in your ability to improve, even if it means making mistakes along the way. Each mistake teaches you something new, so instead of feeling discouraged, dig into what went wrong and make adjustments. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help – whether from professors, tutors, or study groups. The more support you have, the better!
Hack #5: Build Your Support System
Preparing for the FE Exam can feel like a solo journey, but it doesn’t have to be. Look for forums or online communities for FE candidates, where you can share resources, experiences, and advice. Form a study group with classmates or colleagues for accountability and support. And don’t hesitate to reach out to mentors or professors for guidance and real-world insights. Connecting with others can provide valuable encouragement.
Remember, success on the FE exam isn’t just about the time you put in – it’s about consistent effort, staying positive, and believing in your progress. Apply these motivational FE Exam hacks, adapt them to fit your needs, and make 2025 the year you conquer the FE exam and step confidently into your engineering career.
About Matthew Douglas
Matthew currently serves as a content creator and host of The Engineering Project Management Podcast. A civil engineer by trade, Matthew has developed a passion for construction and stormwater management by way of maintenance and rehabilitation services. Matthew has also had experience working with private consulting firms and public agencies, and has even held a role of an educator. As such, he loves to lead, build, mentor, and help those in need.
Most recently, during his time working for the public sector, he has taken the role of Public Works Operations Manager. He led quite a few public infrastructure rehabilitation projects and implemented new asset management technologies at a very young age. It is here that the passion for “fixing what’s broken” developed.
This Episode Is Brought to You by PPI
PPI
has helped engineers achieve their licensing goals since 1975. Passing the FE and PE exams can open doors to career advancement and new opportunities. Check out PPI’s wide range of prep options, including Live Online courses, OnDemand courses, and digital study tools to help prepare you to pass your licensing exam here.
I hope you found this article helpful. In upcoming articles, I will solve some more PE exam practice problems and answer other questions from our subscribers. Pass the PE Exam videos will publish weekly, so be sure to click the subscribe button so you don’t miss something that could make a substantial difference in your exam result.
Lastly, I encourage you to ask questions in the comments of this video, or on this page and I’ll read and respond to them in future videos. So, if there’s a specific topic you want me to cover or answer, we have you covered.
I’ll see you next week… on Pass the FE Exam
Anthony Fasano, P.E., AEC PM, F. ASCE
Engineering Management Institute
Author of Engineer Your Own Success
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