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How to Pass the PE Exam on Your First Try: Expert Strategies Revealed!

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In this article (and video above), I talk with Andrew Kenyon, PE, project manager at BGE and executive director of FCEF, about his journey to passing the PE Exam and the key expert strategies, study techniques, and exam-day tips to help you succeed on your first attempt.

Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked Andrew:

  • Why is it important to take a timed practice exam in a test-like setting, and how did it help you prepare for the real PE exam?
  • If you had to start over and prepare for the PE exam again, what do you wish you had known beforehand, and what advice would you give to those currently preparing?

Here Are Some Key Points and Expert Strategies Discussed in This Episode:

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Conquering Conceptual Engineering Challenges Through Reading on the FE Exam

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In this article (and video above), I guide you on how to master FE Exam conceptual engineering challenges through reading. Reading is a powerful tool that can help you understand and retain information better.

The FE Exam is increasingly focused on conceptual engineering rather than specific formulas. This shift requires mastering fundamental engineering processes alongside problem-solving skills. Preparing for conceptual questions can be challenging, as it involves understanding which areas of conceptual engineering are tested, how they’re evaluated, and how to adequately prepare for them.

Engaging in independent practice questions, reflecting on areas of difficulty, analyzing approaches, and exploring alternative scenarios enhances your understanding of conceptual engineering. However, traditional practice problems may not fully prepare you for conceptual inquiries that assess your comprehension of engineering principles and application of formulas. This is why developing strong conceptual engineering skills is so important to your FE Exam preparation.

To complement practice questions, repeatedly contemplate conceptual engineering from various perspectives and apply it to straightforward problems. This process of reading, practicing, and applying is essential for developing a comprehensive understanding.

Here Are Some Strategies to Enhance Your Reading Abilities for FE Exam Conceptual Engineering:

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Get APPROVED for NCEES PE Exam with ACCURATE Work Experience Documentation

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In this article (and video above), I talk with Oscar Gutierrez Aff.M. ASCE, structural engineer at GEDEON GRC Consulting, about the right ways to document engineering experience, common pitfalls to avoid, and what qualifies as valid experience to streamline your NCEES PE Exam approval process.

Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked Oscar:

  • What are the essential details engineers should focus on when documenting work experience, and what common mistakes should they avoid to ensure the exam approval process goes smoothly?
  • Can you share any tips on how engineers can effectively describe their projects and responsibilities to enhance their application?
  • What types of engineering experiences are eligible for the NCEES PE exam application, and which are not?
  • Since engineers often work on multiple projects simultaneously, how should they structure their application to clearly communicate their involvement in these projects to the board?
  • What challenges did you encounter while filling out your experience form, and do you have any additional strategies or resources to recommend?
  • What final piece of advice can you share with engineers preparing their experience forms and working toward their PE license?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode:

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PASS the FE Exam with THESE 9 Problem-Solving Tips

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In this article (and video above), I share 9 essential problem-solving tips that will help you pass the FE exam with confidence. From understanding the exam format to managing your time wisely, I’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a first-time test-taker or trying again, these tips will give you the edge you need to succeed.

Preparing for the FE exam can be overwhelming. Students face many challenges, from managing a vast amount of material—like mathematics, science, and other various engineering topics,—to navigating the exam’s format and structure. Time management during the test is a common struggle, as is the pressure to perform well, which can lead to anxiety and stress. Additionally, not having access to effective resources and guidance can make it difficult to create a study plan that works.

It’s no surprise that many students struggle to pass on their first attempt. But the good news is that with the right problem-solving tips, you can overcome these challenges and significantly improve your chances of success. Here are 9 tips that can help you navigate this challenging but potentially career game-changing process:

1: Focus on High-Impact Topics

Zero in on the most critical exam topics. Identify the areas that carry the most weight and prioritize your study time there. By focusing on high-impact material, you can maximize your score potential and avoid wasting time on less important sections.

2: Understand Core Concepts, Not Just Formulas

Don’t just memorize formulas—understand the concepts behind them. A solid grasp of the fundamentals will help you approach problems logically and think critically, which is essential for tackling unfamiliar or complex questions.

3: Practice Regularly

Consistent practice is key. Work through a variety of problem types to mimic the actual exam experience. This will build your confidence, improve your speed, and help you pinpoint areas that need extra attention.

4: Learn to Interpret Questions Effectively

Carefully reading and interpreting exam questions can make all the difference. Look for key words and phrases, break problems into smaller parts, and use tools like diagrams and flowcharts to simplify complex scenarios. This structured approach will help you develop clear solutions.

5: Establish a Pre-Exam Routine

Create a routine that helps you stay calm and focused on exam day. Get plenty of sleep, exercise, and eat a nutritious meal to ensure you’re physically and mentally prepared to tackle the test.

6: Master Time Management During the Exam

Plan your time wisely during the test. Allocate sufficient time to each question and leave room at the end to review your answers. Learning how to pace yourself will reduce stress and help you perform your best.

7: Stay Positive and Motivated

Celebrate small wins during your preparation. Reward yourself for completing milestones to keep your motivation high and maintain a positive mindset throughout the study process.

8: Seek Support and Resources

Don’t go it alone. Leverage resources like study groups, review courses, tutors, and online communities to help you stay on track. These support systems can provide valuable insights and encouragement when you need it most.

9 – The Most Important Tips: Master the Art of Reading & Interpreting Questions

Of all the tips, mastering the skill of reading and interpreting questions is the most impactful. This skill unlocks the entire problem-solving process and sets apart successful test-takers. By identifying key words, breaking down problems, and using visual aids, you’ll be equipped to handle any challenge the exam throws your way.

By applying these 9 problem-solving tips, you can tackle the FE exam with confidence. Remember, success isn’t just about memorizing formulas—it’s about understanding concepts, approaching problems methodically, and staying positive throughout your preparation. You’ve got this!

About Matthew Douglas

FE Exam PreparationMatthew 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.

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… on Pass the FE Exam

Anthony Fasano, P.E., AEC PM, F. ASCE

Your Ultimate Guide to Acing the PE Exam for AVIATION Engineers

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In this article (and video above), I talk with Devon Baummer, a licensed professional engineer specializing in aviation at Mead & Hunt, about aviation certifications like the AAE and explore strategic ways to select the right PE exam segment tailored to your career in aviation.

Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked Devon :

  • Since many civil engineers are interested in aviation and licensing, could you explain how one should approach the exam, specifically which segments to choose when aiming to enter aviation?
  • Is it correct that in the state where one is licensed, a specific aviation designation is not required to practice, provided they ethically understand the field?
  • Is it accurate that civil engineers interested in aviation can choose any exam segment based on state requirements, but must practice within their knowledge to avoid ethical violations and public safety risks?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode:

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How Becoming an FE Can Instantly Improve Your Portfolio & Career Security

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In this article (and video above), I explore the benefits of becoming a licensed professional engineer and how it can open doors to new opportunities, increase your earning potential, and enhance your career security while giving you a competitive edge in the industry. Whether you’re a recent graduate or an experienced engineer, passing the FE exam can take your career to the next level, providing long-term career security in an evolving job market.

I want to focus on six points to inspire you to take and pass the FE exam.

1 – Exam Day – The Ultimate Test of Your Knowledge and Endurance

Let’s start with the challenge itself: Exam Day. This isn’t just any test; it’s a six-hour marathon of 110 multiple-choice questions, covering everything from math and engineering economics to material science and fluid mechanics. That means you’re drawing on knowledge from your entire academic journey.

You might be asking, “Why does the FE exam need to be so intense?” Well, it’s designed to see if you’ve got the full scope of engineering fundamentals down, no matter your discipline. Preparing for this exam demands months of focused study, and when you’re finally sitting there on exam day, it’s as much a mental endurance test as it is a knowledge test. When you pass, you know you’ve truly earned it! And that achievement contributes to your long-term career security, proving your readiness for the challenges ahead.

2 – Validation for New Graduates: Proof You’re Ready for the Field

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Mastering PE Exam Time Management for a Passing Score!

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In this article (and video above), I share expert tips and strategies to help you optimize your test-taking skills and make the most of your exam time. From understanding the exam format to creating a personalized study plan, we’ll cover it all. Learn how to prioritize questions, PE Exam time management , and avoid common pitfalls that can cost you valuable points. With our proven techniques, you’ll be able to tackle even the toughest questions with confidence and achieve a passing score.

Effective time management is crucial for acing the PE exam. In fact, it’s one of the most critical skills to develop if you want to walk out of that exam room with a passing score. Think about it – you can be super knowledgeable on the content, but if you can’t manage your time wisely, you’ll likely end up running out of time or getting stuck on a challenging question, and that’s a recipe for disaster.

The Most Common PE Exam Time Management Challenges:

1. Pacing Yourself

  • A major hurdle is spending too much time on a single difficult problem, losing precious minutes.

2. Dealing with Anxiety

  • Stress can lead to panic, making it harder to focus and manage your time effectively.

3. Balancing Question Difficulties

  • Tough questions can trap you, leaving insufficient time for easier ones.

4. Maintaining Focus

  • Distractions, exhaustion, or feeling overwhelmed can break your concentration, further derailing time management.

Four Effective Time Management Strategies That Will Help You Pass the Exam:

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What’s the SECRET to Mastering MOMENT of INERTIA on the FE Exam?

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In this article (and video above), we reveal the SECRET to overcoming the challenging topic of moment of inertia and help you achieve success on your engineering licensing exam. 

We’ll start by revisiting the basics of inertia and then dive deeper into essential topics like centroidal area and the parallel axis theorem. These concepts are critical for understanding how the moment of inertia works and will prepare you to handle the different scenarios you’re likely to encounter on the exam.

Question:

In this question, we are presented with an I-beam, and we’re asked to calculate its moment of inertia about its centroidal x-axis. We’re also given a list of possible answers, all presented in mm – so straight off the bat, we know that we’ll be sticking to this unit in our calculations to keep things simple and prevent possible conversion mistakes. Now – before we jump into the solution to this problem, let’s review some key concepts so you have a better understanding of the theory behind this question.

moment of inertia

Problem Context: Area Moment of Inertia

The area moment of inertia is a parameter that defines how much resistance a shape – like that of the cross-section of a beam – has to bending due to its geometry. For example – when we apply a concentrated load to the center of three simply supported beams like we have here – we get an intuitive feel for how the beams would react under this stress. In this case, the beams are bending about their own central axis referred to as their centroidal axis. The beam to the left would deform easily under this stress due to its cross section having a small inertia or ‘resistance to bending’ about its central axis. But when you look at the second or third beam, they have larger inertias making them more resistant to bending in this plane. This resistance to bending is influenced by the distribution of area about the bending axis, meaning when a shape has more of its area distributed further away from the bending line, like with our I-beam, it’s also less likely to bend.

moment of inertia

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Ace the PE Exam in 2025 WITHOUT Breaking the Bank

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In this article (and video above), I share some top tips and strategies on how to ace the PE exam in 2025 without breaking the bank. From budget-friendly study materials to effective time management techniques, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a recent graduate or a working professional, this video is perfect for anyone looking to pass the PE exam on a budget.

When it comes to the PE exam, many aspiring engineers face the challenge of expensive study materials and courses, which can be a significant barrier to success. However, it’s a common misconception that passing the PE Exam requires spending a fortune on prep courses and materials. The truth? There are plenty of affordable resources that can help you prepare effectively without breaking the bank. In fact, many people have successfully passed the exam using free or low-cost resources—they just knew where to look and how to use them.

The financial burden of preparing for the PE Exam can be overwhelming, leading to stress and anxiety, especially for those already managing tight budgets. Many feel stuck, unable to afford costly resources.

The good news is, you don’t need to spend a lot of money to pass the exam. The key is to be strategic in utilizing the resources available to you. By focusing on affordable or free options, you can reduce financial strain, minimize stress, and channel your energy into what truly matters—successfully passing the exam.

Four Affordable Resources to Consider for the PE Exam in 2025

1 – Free Online Courses

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Strategies to Overcome Procrastination and PASS THE FE EXAM

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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, let’s talk about why we procrastinate in the first place. Procrastination often stems from feeling overwhelmed – maybe it’s the sheer amount of material to cover, or maybe you’re worried about not doing well. If you’re feeling like this, know it’s totally normal. The FE Exam is a big deal, but breaking down why you’re 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, ‘I’ll study thermodynamics this week,’ try ‘I’ll review thermodynamic cycles and solve five practice problems by Wednesday.’ 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

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