In this article (and video above), I share some simple yet powerful strategies to help you overcome procrastination, build productivity, and get on track with your exam prep. Whether you’re a recent graduate or a working professional, these tips will help you stay on track and pass your FE exam with confidence.
1: Understanding Why We Procrastinate
Before we get into strategies, letâs talk about why we procrastinate in the first place. Procrastination often stems from feeling overwhelmed â maybe itâs the sheer amount of material to cover, or maybe youâre worried about not doing well. If youâre feeling like this, know itâs totally normal. The FE Exam is a big deal, but breaking down why youâre avoiding study sessions can help you turn things around.
2: Set Clear and Achievable Goals
Step one to overcome procrastination? Setting clear, achievable goals. For example, instead of saying, âIâll study thermodynamics this week,â try âIâll review thermodynamic cycles and solve five practice problems by Wednesday.â Smaller goals create quick wins and give you that dopamine hit, which can make you feel accomplished and motivated to keep going.
3: Use a Study Schedule
Next up: Make a study schedule. This isnât just about having a calendar; itâs about creating a commitment. Break down your study topics over weeks or months. If you can, set up recurring times each week to build a study habit. This kind of consistency will make it easier to show up, even on days when motivation is low.
4: The Pomodoro Technique
If you havenât heard of the Pomodoro Technique, this might just be a game-changer. Hereâs how it works: Set a timer for 25 minutes and focus on one topic during that time. When the timer goes off, take a 5-minute break. Repeat this cycle four times, and then take a longer break. Itâs all about building focus and managing time so you donât feel like youâre grinding for hours.
5: Create an Ideal Study Environment
Where you study matters. If youâre trying to prepare for the FE Exam on your couch with the TV on, thatâs probably not ideal. Find a space where you can set up your materials, free of distractions. Some of our viewers have found libraries or even coffee shops helpful. Just find a spot where you can get into âstudy modeâ without distractions.
6: Reward Yourself and Track Progress
Staying motivated can be tough, so donât forget to reward yourself. Maybe after completing a study session, you treat yourself to a favorite snack, or after a week of consistent study, you take a break to do something fun. Also, track your progress! Use a checklist or a study log to see how far youâve come. That progress can be the boost you need to keep going.
7: Find an Accountability Partner or Study Group
Sometimes, studying alone can feel isolating. Try finding a study buddy or a group to keep each other accountable. You can even set up check-ins or join online forums with other FE candidates. Knowing someone else is working toward the same goal can make it feel more achievable.
Conclusion
So there you have it, engineers. If you want to overcome procrastination and boost your productivity for the FE exam, start by setting clear goals, breaking down your study material into manageable pieces, using a study schedule, and giving the Pomodoro Technique a try. With these strategies, youâll be on your way to building a solid study routine that will keep you motivated and on track.these strategies, youâll be on your way to building a solid study routine that will keep you motivated and on track.
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 âfixing what’s brokenâ 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 PPIâs 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 donât 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 Iâll read and respond to them in future videos. So, if thereâs a specific topic you want me to cover or answer, we have you covered.
Iâll see you next week⌠on Pass the FE Exam
Anthony Fasano, P.E., AEC PM, F. ASCE
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