Anthony Fasano, P.E.

How to Get Your Free PDF Copy of the FE Reference Handbook

September 24, 2024 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), I uncover a critical resource for aspiring engineers: The FE Reference Handbook, and dive into the essential steps to obtain your own free PDF copy of this indispensable tool, crucial for mastering the Fundamentals of Engineering exam.

When you’re taking the Fundamentals of Engineering exam, or FE for short, you’ll get access to a free, searchable, PDF document that you can reference throughout the exam. This nearly 500-page book is known as the FE Reference Handbook. The FE Reference Handbook is your go-to resource during the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, a crucial step for obtaining your engineering license in the US. It’s an invaluable tool packed with formulas, equations, charts, and data relevant to various engineering disciplines.

What is the FE Reference Handbook?

The National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) publishes this official handbook.
It’s the only reference material you can use during the computer-based FE exam.
You won’t bring a physical copy; a PDF version is provided within the exam software.
The content varies based on your chosen engineering discipline (e.g., civil, mechanical, electrical).

Here are the steps to get your free PDF copy of the FE Reference Handbook directly through NCEES:

How a PE License Can Boost Your Sales & Credibility

September 18, 2024 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), I talk with Mark Ibarra and Ben Frerichs, P.E., Managing Directors at 1898 & Co., about their career journeys and how obtaining a PE license and continuous professional development have influenced their success and credibility in business development, client management, and engineering consulting.

Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked Mark and Ben:

How has your career journey as a mechanical engineer led you to your current leadership role in sales and marketing, and how did your PE license influence this transition?
How do continuous professional development and obtaining additional certifications help maintain client relationships and secure new business?
How has your PE license enhanced your credibility and effectiveness in business development roles?
How do technical qualifications impact client trust and relationship-building in your experience?
Can you share specific examples of how your PE certification helped you secure new business?
What strategies do you find most effective in using technical expertise to win new projects as a managing director in business development?
Besides technical expertise and certifications, what other skills are essential for success in sales, business development, or consulting within the engineering sector?
What advice would you offer to young engineers considering the PE exam and other certifications, especially if they want to transition into client management, sales, or business development roles?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode:

Engineers who gain hands-on experience in the field often discover a passion for client-facing roles, such as business development or project management. This shift can open up new opportunities to lead projects and build strong client relationships.
Continuous professional development and certifications like the PE license are essential for staying competitive in the industry. These efforts not only enhance technical knowledge but also demonstrate a commitment to excellence, which helps build trust with clients. Staying current with certifications ensures that clients see you as a credible and reliable partner, which strengthens relationships and helps secure new business.
Obtaining a PE license significantly boosts credibility by showcasing technical expertise and industry knowledge, which clients appreciate when making critical business decisions. This enhanced trust facilitates smoother conversations, allowing for the positioning of oneself as a reliable partner in solving complex challenges in business development.
Technical qualifications, like the PE license, significantly boost client trust. These certifications show that a professional has the expertise and knowledge to handle complex projects, which gives clients confidence in the individual’s abilities and helps build long-term, strong relationships.
Certifications like the PE license not only enhance credibility but also help professionals build trust with clients by showcasing their expertise upfront. This trust forms the foundation for stronger client relationships and increases the likelihood of securing more significant projects.
Presenting a well-rounded team with the right skill sets and certifications is one of the most effective strategies for winning new projects. Clients trust that they are partnering with knowledgeable professionals when a team showcases its technical expertise, ensuring that the right people are in the right roles to deliver high-quality results.
In addition to technical expertise, listening is one of the most crucial skills for success in sales and business development. Being an active listener allows engineers to understand client needs more deeply, ask better questions, and ultimately build stronger relationships. Trust and authenticity, coupled with following through on commitments, are equally important in maintaining those relationships.
For young engineers, obtaining certifications like the PE license is a solid investment that will not only boost your credibility but also provide the confidence needed to navigate client management and business development roles. Continuous learning and stepping out of your comfort zone will open new doors, and having a certification will help build trust and position you as an expert in your field.

About Mark Ibarra

Mark is a Managing Director at 1898 & Co., part of Burns & McDonnell. 1898 & Co. is a global business, technology and security consultancy serving critical infrastructure industries. We partner with clients to plan, secure and optimize their business. As part of Burns & McDonnell and our 125 years of industry experience, we understand the complexity of your asset-intensive business model, the trends impacting your industry, and the need to ground big ideas in operational realities.

About Ben Frerichs, P.E.

Ben Frerichs is a Managing Director at 1898 & Co., a global business, technology, and security consultancy that partners with clients in critical infrastructure industries to deliver strategic insights and sustainable solutions. With over 120 years of industry experience as part of Burns & McDonnell, 1898 & Co. specializes in providing practical, real-world solutions for asset-intensive organizations.

In his role, Ben focuses on developing and achieving successful business outcomes for clients, aligning their goals in areas such as cyber resiliency, revenue growth, productivity improvement, and risk management. He is passionate about bringing together the right people with the right skills to ensure each project’s success. Ben’s hands-on experience and technical expertise as a licensed professional engineer (P.E.) have helped him build trust and credibility with clients across diverse industries.

Sources:

1898 & Co.
Burns & McDonnell
University of Nebraska at Lincoln
Arizona Public Service Company (APS)

This Episode Is Brought to You by Burns & McDonnell

At Burns & McDonnell, our engineers, construction and craft professionals, architects, planners, technologists, and scientists do more than plan, design, and construct. With a mission unchanged since 1898 — make our clients successful — our more than 13,500 professionals partner with you on the toughest challenges, constantly working to make the world an amazing place. Each professional brings an ownership mentality to projects at our 100% employee-owned firm, which has safety performance among the top 5% of AEC firms. That means we think like owners, working through each challenge until it’s resolved, meeting or exceeding our client’s goals. Find out more about Burns & McDonnell here: burnsmcd.com/careers

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 PE Exam

Anthony Fasano, P.E., AEC PM, F. ASCE
Engineering Management Institute
Author of Engineer Your Own Success

Is the PE License Worth It for Chemical Engineers?

September 17, 2024 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), I talk with Tina Heath, PE, LEED-AP, Senior Technical Client Manager at T&M Associates, about why chemical engineers should pursue their PE license. Tina shares the excitement and benefits she’s experiencing firsthand, offering insights into how earning this credential elevates your career and unlocks new professional opportunities.

Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked Tina:

As a chemical engineer who pursued your PE license, can you share how that decision has impacted your career, and what led you to make that choice?
Do you feel that having your PE license is still valuable in the consulting work you do at T&M Associates?
How does having a PE license impact a chemical engineer’s credibility, especially when being evaluated by clients or potential employers?
Why do you think it’s important for engineers to consider getting their PE license, even if they’re unsure of where their career will take them in the next 5 to 15 years?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode:

Getting a PE license is crucial for chemical engineers, as it demonstrates professionalism and opens up new career opportunities. Whether starting in a technical role or transitioning to consulting, those two letters provide credibility and flexibility for future career paths.
Having a PE license is valuable no matter where your career takes you, as it opens doors to various opportunities and industries. Whether working in consulting or any other field, the license provides credibility and demonstrates a high level of professionalism.
Having a PE license instantly boosts credibility and shows clients or employers that an engineer is serious and dedicated. It reflects work ethic, aspirations, and long-term career goals, making it a valuable asset in any professional setting.
Obtaining a PE license is a smart investment in your future, as it provides flexibility and credibility no matter where your career takes you. It can open doors to new opportunities and give you the authority to take on greater responsibilities, like signing and sealing documents.

About Tina Heath, PE, LEED-AP

Tina Heath, PE, LEED, is a senior technical client manager at T&M Associates with a BS in chemical engineering and chemistry from the University of California, Berkeley. She is an analytical and meticulous compliance leader with expertise in EHS regulations, project management, incident investigations, root cause analysis, policy development, and vendor/government relations. Tina excels in SCAQMD RECLAIM & Title V air permits, hazardous material and waste management, water permits, storage tank regulations, safety and environmental policy development, and site audits. She is skilled in strategic planning, budget management, and implementing best practice methodologies to drive results and create a strong compliance culture. Her work includes liaising with various government agencies and ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, including Legionella prevention and reporting for refrigerants. Tina’s dedication to excellence and innovative approach ensure the sustained success of enterprises she works with.

Sources:

T&M Associates
SPCC
Connect with Tina Heath, PE, LEED-AP, on LinkedIn

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.

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 PE Exam

Anthony Fasano, P.E., AEC PM, F. ASCE
Engineering Management Institute
Author of Engineer Your Own Success

Projectile Motion Explained in Depth | Kinematics of Particles

September 10, 2024 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), we dive deep into the fascinating world of projectile motion and explore how to determine the exact position of a projectile at its maximum height. This question forms part of the Dynamics section in the FE exam. Join us as we break down the principles of kinematics and the fundamental concepts of projectile motion, including the independence of horizontal and vertical components when air resistance is negligible

Question:

A projectile is shot from ground level with an initial velocity of 22 m/s at an angle of 40°. Determine its (x,y) coordinate when it reaches its peak altitude. Neglect air resistance.

Problem Context:

Can You Take the PE Exam with Just a Master’s Degree?

September 3, 2024 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), I discuss an interesting fact: about 30% of PE exam candidates qualify with just a Master’s degree. Surprising, isn’t it? But the real question is, can a Master’s degree alone secure the license you need? Let’s explore the answer together!

First things first—what exactly is the PE exam? The Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam is a significant milestone in the engineering world. Earning your PE license can open doors to advanced career opportunities, proving you have the knowledge and skills to handle responsible engineering tasks. If you’ve got a Master’s degree, you might feel like you’re ahead of the game. But are you really?

There’s a common misconception among aspiring engineers: having a Master’s degree automatically qualifies you for the PE exam. Spoiler alert: it’s not that simple! There are specific eligibility requirements that go beyond just having an advanced degree. Understanding these requirements is crucial because overlooking them could set you back. Let’s clear up these misconceptions and make sure you’re on the right path.

So, what are the actual requirements for taking the PE exam? While a Master’s degree can give you an edge, it’s not the only factor. You’ll also need relevant work experience—usually four years of engineering work under the supervision of a licensed PE. However, if your Master’s degree is from an accredited program, some states might allow you to substitute part of that experience, potentially reducing the requirement to just two years. But be sure to check your state’s specific rules, as they can vary widely.

Now, here’s the answer you’ve been waiting for: is a Master’s degree alone enough to take the PE exam? The short answer: it depends. If you meet the work experience requirements and everything else lines up, then yes, you could qualify. But if you’re lacking the necessary experience, your Master’s degree alone won’t be enough. It’s important to remember that while your degree is valuable, the hands-on experience you gain in your career is just as crucial. Keep this in mind as you plan your path forward!

Here are some Steps you can take to Assess Your Eligibility:

Identify Your Jurisdiction: Determine the state or country where you plan to practice engineering, as each has its own licensing requirements.
Contact the Licensing Board: Reach out to the regulatory agency responsible for PE licensure in your chosen jurisdiction to gather information on eligibility criteria.
Gather Information on Requirements: Obtain details on the specific requirements related to education, experience, and examinations from the licensing board.
Review Specific Requirements: Check for any state- or country-specific requirements, such as the amount of supervised engineering experience needed.
Seek Guidance: Use resources from the licensing board and professional organizations to guide you through the process.
Prepare Your Application: Once you meet the eligibility requirements, prepare and submit your application with all necessary documentation.
Stay Informed: After submission, follow up with the licensing board and stay updated on any changes or new regulations related to PE licensure.

Today, we’ve covered a lot about the eligibility requirements for the PE exam, especially when you have a Master’s degree. While having the degree is a great starting point, don’t overlook the importance of the required work experience. Take the time to fully understand these requirements to ensure you’re on the right track for your engineering career.

This Episode Is Brought to You by PPI

I’ll see you next week… on Pass the PE Exam

Anthony Fasano, P.E., AEC PM, F. ASCE
Engineering Management Institute
Author of Engineer Your Own Success

Mastering the Fundamentals of Engineering Ethics

August 27, 2024 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), I guide you through the essential topics outlined in the Ethics section of the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) reference handbook, equipping you with the knowledge and insights necessary to navigate the complexities of engineering ethics and ethical conduct in the engineering profession. Together, we’ll explore the principles that underpin ethical decision-making, ensuring that you’re well-prepared to uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.

The Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam is a computer-based test (CBT) administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) that most engineers must pass in order to obtain their professional licenses. The FE exam covers a broad range of engineering topics, including engineering ethics.

What is Engineering Ethics?

Engineering ethics are the moral codes that guide the actions and decisions of our everyday lives with one another. In the world of engineering, ethical decisions are pivotal in ensuring the safety, well-being, and welfare of the public. These ethical decisions range from a variety of virtues such as integrity, honesty, and objectivity, which engineers must uphold in their professional lives. For instance, when an engineer works on a critical infrastructure project such as a bridge, they have a moral duty to prioritize public safety over any personal or financial gain.

Here are the essential topics in the Ethics section covered in the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) reference handbook:

1. Model Rules, Section 240.15 Rules of Professional Conduct

This section outlines the principles aimed at safeguarding the public’s health, safety, and welfare, along with upholding integrity and rigorous standards in engineering and surveying practices.

Licensed professionals are required to give paramount importance to public welfare, certify documents in compliance with established norms, and report to authorities if their professional discretion is disregarded in a manner that jeopardizes public safety (NCEES, 2022, 4). Additionally, they are expected to furnish comprehensive and unbiased information in professional documents and offer professional judgments grounded in factual expertise and proficient assessment.

2. The Model Law in Section 110.20

In this section, it provides definitions related to the practice of engineering and surveying. Clarifying the terms used in the Act, including various professional titles and statuses (NCEES, 2022, 12).

Engineer: A person possessing the qualifications to engage in engineering practice, established through education, training, and professional experience.

Professional Engineer: An individual duly licensed in a specific engineering discipline or branch.

Retired Professional Engineer: A licensed professional engineer who has elected not to renew their license.

Engineer Intern: A person certified by the board.

Practice of Engineering: Activities necessitating engineering expertise and experience, with potential impacts on public health, safety, and welfare. This includes tasks such as planning, designing, coordination, and technical submissions.

3. The Model Law in Section 130.10

Here, it outlines the requirements for licensure as a professional engineer or surveyor. Eligibility includes good character, meeting education and experience criteria, passing exams, and submitting references.

For engineers, there are stages: Engineer Intern certification and licensure as a Professional Engineer. Education, examination, and experience requirements must be met. Licensure by comity is possible for qualified applicants. The section also references surveying requirements. These criteria ensure that licensed professionals meet the necessary standards for practice (NCEES, 2022, 13).

4. The Model Law in Section 150.10

Detailing grounds for disciplinary action against licensees and interns, the board has the authority to suspend, revoke, fine, or refuse to issue or renew a license or certification for various reasons. These include fraud, negligence, misconduct, criminal convictions, failure to comply with the law or regulations, discipline by other jurisdictions, providing false information, aiding violations, practicing outside of competence, unethical conduct, substance abuse, and more (NCEES, 2022, 14-15).

The board may also impose fines based on factors such as deterrence, severity of the violation, risk to the public, economic benefits gained, and consistency with past fines. These provisions ensure accountability and protection of the public in the engineering and surveying professions.

5. The Model Law in Section 150.30

This section outlines grounds for disciplinary action against unlicensed individuals in the field of engineering and surveying. The board has the authority to fine and recover costs from unlicensed individuals who engage in the practice of engineering or surveying without proper licensure, use restricted professional terms, present false credentials, commit fraud, impersonate licensees, or use expired or nonexistent licenses. The fine for each offense cannot exceed a specified amount, and each day of continued violation may be considered a separate offense (NCEES, 2022, 15).

Factors such as deterrence, circumstances of the violation, risk to the public, economic benefits gained, public interest, and consistency with past fines may be taken into account when determining the fine amount. The aim of these provisions is to regulate and protect the public from unlicensed individuals practicing in the engineering and surveying domains.

6. The Model Law in Section 160.10

It establishes the general requirements for obtaining a certificate of authorization for firms practicing or offering engineering or surveying services. Firms engaging in these activities must obtain a certificate of authorization from the board, except in cases where the firm performs engineering or surveying exclusively for itself, its parent company, or its subsidiary (NCEES, 2022, 15-16).

The secretary of state is prohibited from accepting organizational papers or issuing certificates to firms that include the words “engineer,” “engineering,” “surveyor,” “surveying,” or related variations in their objectives or name unless the board has issued a certificate of authorization or an eligibility letter. Additionally, the secretary of state cannot authorize trade names, trademarks, or service marks that contain these restricted words, except for licensees and firms with valid certificates of authorization.

These provisions are in place to ensure that proper regulation and control are used among professional titles and marks in the engineering and surveying fields.

7. The Model Law in Section 160.70

It outlines the grounds for disciplinary action against firms holding a certificate of authorization. The board is empowered to suspend, revoke, fine, or refuse to issue, restore, or renew a certificate of authorization for various violations.

These violations include fraud, negligence, incompetence, misconduct, criminal convictions, failure to comply with the law or board regulations, discipline by other jurisdictions, false statements, aiding in violations, and unethical conduct. Firms may also be fined for each offense, with the amount determined by the board based on factors such as deterrence, severity, and public interest. Additionally, the board can impose sanctions on firms when their managing agents or officers are found guilty of violating the law or regulations, including probation, fines, reprimand, or revocation of the certificate of authorization (NCEES, 2022, 16).

Here’s an example:

Scenario: Mario is a licensed engineer working for a construction firm. She is responsible for overseeing the construction of a high-rise building. During the construction process, Sarah becomes aware of a significant structural defect that could potentially compromise the safety of the building. She knows that immediate action is required to rectify the issue.

Which of the following actions aligns with the licensee’s obligation to the public?

A) Mario ignores the structural defect as it may cause delays and additional costs to the project.
B) Mario informs her employer and takes appropriate measures to address the structural defect promptly.
C) Mario conceals the defect to avoid damaging the reputation of her firm.
D) Mario waits until the project is completed and then anonymously reports the defect to the local authorities.

Correct answer is letter: B) Mario informs her employer and takes appropriate measures to address the structural defect promptly.

According to the Model Rules of Professional Conduct, licensees have a primary responsibility to safeguard the health, safety, and welfare of the public. In this scenario, Sarah’s discovery of a significant structural defect poses a potential risk to the safety of the building and its occupants. To fulfill her obligation to the public, Sarah should promptly inform her employer and take appropriate actions to address the defect. By doing so, she prioritizes public safety over personal concerns and ensures that necessary measures are taken to rectify the issue.

As I conclude, it’s imperative to recognize the vital role of regulatory frameworks in maintaining integrity and professionalism in engineering and surveying. Model rules set standards and guide disciplinary actions against violations like fraud and unethical conduct, prioritizing public interest protection. Disciplinary measures, including suspension and fines, stress the importance of engineering ethics compliance for both individuals and firms. Upholding these rules fortifies trust and reliability in engineering and surveying, ensuring societal well-being.

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

I’ll see you next week… on Pass the FE Exam

Anthony Fasano, P.E.
Engineering Management Institute
Author of Engineer Your Own Success

NCEES Approval for Foreign Engineers

August 20, 2024 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), I talk with Oscar Gutierrez, Aff.M. ASCE, structural engineer at Osborn Engineering, about the steps foreign engineers can take to get their education approved by NCEES and begin their journey toward becoming licensed in the U.S.

Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked Oscar:

How can foreign engineers determine if their education meets NCEES requirements for U.S. licensure, especially if their school lacks ABET accreditation?
After submitting all necessary documents to NCEES, what are the next steps in the credential evaluation process?
What is the process for linking your NCEES account with your state’s engineering board to apply for the FE exam?
How do you link your NCEES account to a specific state’s engineering board to initiate the FE exam application?
How does the work experience requirement for a PE license differ for foreign engineers compared to U.S. engineers, and why is it crucial to confirm this with the state board?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode:

Mastering Kinematics of Rigid Bodies for the FE Exam

August 13, 2024 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), we take a deep dive into the world of rotational kinematics, and explore the significance of using the 4 constant angular acceleration equations to solve complex problems and unravel the mysteries of rotating objects.

Question:

The disk presented in the figure accelerates uniformly from rest at a rate of 2 rad/s^2 for 4 seconds. It then maintains a constant angular velocity for 4 seconds before decelerating uniformly at a rate of 5 rad/s^2 until it comes to rest.

What is the total angular displacement of the disk?

Problem Context:

Maintain Your PE License During A Prolonged Break (Without Losing It)

August 6, 2024 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), I dive into a topic that affects many engineers out there – how to maintain your PE license during a prolonged break.

Did you know that a shocking number of engineers end up losing their licenses because they didn’t take the necessary steps to keep them active? From understanding regulatory requirements to strategies for staying engaged with the engineering field, we cover it all.

The status of your PE license during an extended period would depend on the regulations and requirements of the licensing board in your jurisdiction. In many cases, licensing boards understand that professionals may need to take extended leaves for various reasons such as maternity leave, illness, or caregiving responsibilities. Some licensing boards may have provisions for maintaining your license during such leaves, while others may require you to fulfill certain obligations to keep it active.

It’s important to check with your licensing board directly to understand their policies regarding extended leaves and how they may affect your PE license. They can provide you with specific information on any requirements for maintaining your license during your absence and any steps you may need to take to ensure its continued validity. Additionally, professional organizations related to your field may also offer guidance and support in navigating such situations.

Here Are a Few Options to Consider to Maintain Your PE License:

Leveraging AI for the FE Exam: A GAME CHANGER

July 30, 2024 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), I explain how leveraging AI can help you to create personalized study plans, receive instant feedback on practice questions, and benefit from adaptive learning techniques tailored to your individual strengths and weaknesses.

First, let’s quickly recap what the FE exam is all about. The Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam is a comprehensive test that evaluates your knowledge in various engineering disciplines. It’s a crucial step towards becoming a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in the United States. The exam covers a wide range of topics, including mathematics, ethics, engineering economics, and more.

Before we proceed, it’s essential to note that while AI like ChatGPT or Gemini is incredibly helpful, it’s not a magic wand. It’s a tool that complements your hard work and dedication. For the purpose of this post, I will refer to ChatGPT, however there are several free AI programs that you can choose from.

Here’s how you can leverage AI in your FE exam studying.

Breaking Down the FE Exam with AI

Let’s break it down into manageable chunks with AI assistance:

Study Timeline: Ask ChatGPT to estimate how long it might take you to study based on your background and the FE specifications for your discipline.
Decoding Topics: If a topic is unclear, ask ChatGPT to explain it in simple terms and provide examples relevant to the FE.
Mind Mapping: Have ChatGPT generate a mind map for a specific FE section. This visualizes the topics and creates a roadmap for your studying.

Crafting Your Perfect Study Schedule

Start by:

Customizing Your Schedule: Describe your commitments such as work, classes, and personal obligations to ChatGPT. This information will serve as the foundation for your personalized study plan.
Be Flexible: Tell ChatGPT where you have flexibility and where you don’t. It’ll make suggestions based on your constraints.
Printable Format: Ask ChatGPT to summarize your schedule in an easy-to-print, visually appealing format so you can post it for motivation.

Active Recall for the Win

Engaging in active recall is a vital strategy for effective learning. Here’s how you can utilize ChatGPT to create impactful flashcards:

Targeted Questions: Ask ChatGPT to generate flashcards on a specific topic, focusing on conceptual understanding. These targeted questions will enhance your retention and comprehension of key concepts.
Double Check: Always verify ChatGPT’s answers by cross-checking with reliable sources. You can also ask ChatGPT to provide detailed explanations of its reasoning, aiding in the verification process and ensuring accuracy in your study materials.

Solidifying Your Foundation

Building a strong foundation is crucial, and AI can assist in reinforcing your fundamentals. For example:

Personalized Practice: Ask ChatGPT to give you practice problems on topics where you feel less confident.
Step-by-Step Solutions: Have ChatGPT provide guided, step-by-step explanations of the problems to reinforce your understanding.

The Challenges of AI

While it offers valuable benefits, it’s essential to understand its limitations:

ChatGPT is a powerful tool but not a magical solution that replaces your efforts. Success still hinges on your dedication and hard work.
ChatGPT excels in providing clear explanations, sparking creative ideas, and customizing study plans to your needs. Use these strengths to enhance your learning experience.
Always verify ChatGPT’s answers, especially for highly technical content. It’s a smart practice to cross-reference information from reliable sources.
Think of ChatGPT as a supportive study partner. It complements your learning journey by offering insights and guidance, but it shouldn’t replace active learning and critical thinking.

Leveraging AI in your FE exam preparation strategy can lead to increased efficiency, effectiveness, and confidence when tackling the exam. It’s a game changer that can help you reach your full potential as an engineer. I encourage you to explore AI tools for your FE exam preparation.

This Episode Is Brought to You by PPI, A Kaplan Company:

I hope you found this week’s FE Exam article helpful. In upcoming articles, I will answer more FE Exam questions and run through more practice problems. We publish videos bi-weekly on our Pass the FE Exam YouTube Channel. Be sure to visit our page here and click the subscribe button as you’ll get expert tips and tricks – to ensure your best success – that you can’t get anywhere else. Believe me, you won’t want to miss a single video.

Lastly, I encourage you to ask questions in the comments of the videos or here 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.

Anthony Fasano, P.E.
Engineering Management Institute
Author of Engineer Your Own Success