Videos

Top 10 Reasons for Failing the PE Exam (and Proven Strategies for Bouncing Back)

April 16, 2024 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), I outline 10 common reasons why people are failing the PE Exam because by understanding these reasons, they can turn a short-term setback into a stepping stone for long-term success.

Let’s explore some of the common pitfalls that can lead to failing the PE exam. This isn’t about pointing fingers or feeling down – it’s about identifying these obstacles so you can overcome them in your next attempt.

1 – Being Unprepared:

The PE exam tests a wide range of engineering concepts and requires a comprehensive understanding of each topic. Many candidates make the mistake of focusing only on areas where they feel confident, neglecting weaker subjects. A thorough preparation means covering all topics listed in the NCEES® specification, understanding the underlying principles, and practicing a variety of problems. Diversifying your study material and methods can also help strengthen weak areas.

2 – Poor Time Management:

The PE exam’s time constraint means that efficient time management is crucial. Candidates often spend too long on complex questions, leaving insufficient time for others. A strategic approach would be to first address questions you are confident in, then return to the tougher ones. Practicing under timed conditions can help develop a sense of how long to spend on each question and improve your ability to work under time pressure.

3 – Lack of Rest:

Adequate rest is critical for optimal cognitive functioning. Intense study sessions without sufficient rest can lead to burnout, affecting concentration and memory during the exam. It’s important to maintain a balanced study schedule, ensuring regular breaks and a good night’s sleep, especially in the days leading up to the exam. A well-rested mind is more efficient and focused, which is essential for a lengthy and demanding exam like the PE.

4 – Underestimating the Exam:

Some candidates may not fully appreciate the complexity of the PE exam, leading to inadequate preparation. It’s essential to understand that this exam requires more than just a basic understanding of engineering principles; it tests your ability to apply these principles in complex scenarios. Respect the difficulty level of the exam and prepare accordingly, starting well in advance.

5 – Wrong Study Materials:

Using outdated or irrelevant study materials can be a major setback. The PE exam content evolves, and so should your study resources. It’s crucial to use current and comprehensive materials that align with the latest exam specifications and formats. This includes textbooks, practice exams, and online resources that are up-to-date and relevant to the current exam format.

6 – Distractions While Studying:

Distractions can severely hinder your ability to study effectively. Social media, smartphones, and other forms of entertainment can eat into your valuable study time. Creating a dedicated study space, setting specific study hours, and using techniques like the Pomodoro Technique can help minimize distractions and enhance focus.

7 – Exam Stress and Anxiety:

High levels of stress and anxiety can impair your ability to perform well in the exam. Techniques such as mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, and positive affirmations can be effective in managing stress. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and sufficient sleep also play a significant role in reducing anxiety levels.

8 – Not Knowing Exam Specifications:

A deep understanding of the NCEES exam specifications is crucial for targeted and effective study. These specifications outline the topics and subtopics that will be covered in the exam, allowing you to allocate your study time appropriately. Familiarizing yourself with these specifications ensures that no key area is overlooked during your preparation.

9 – Unfamiliarity with the NCEES® Reference Handbook:

The NCEES Reference Handbook is an indispensable resource during the PE exam. It contains formulas, tables, and other reference material that are essential for solving exam problems. Prior familiarity with the layout and content of this handbook can save valuable time during the exam. It’s beneficial to practice looking up information in the handbook as part of your study routine.

10 – Not Being Mentally Prepared on Exam Day:

Mental preparation is as important as academic preparation. This includes being in the right state of mind on the day of the exam. Strategies such as visualization, positive self-talk, and relaxation techniques can help maintain a calm and focused mindset. A healthy breakfast and arriving early at the exam venue can also contribute to a positive start to the exam day.

Failing the PE exam doesn’t define you as an engineer. It’s a learning experience. By understanding where things went wrong and taking proactive steps, you can turn this setback into an opportunity for growth. Success in the PE exam, like in engineering itself, comes from hard work, perseverance, and continuous learning.

Remember, every challenge is an opportunity to grow. Keep pushing forward, stay dedicated, and your efforts will pay off.

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 PE Exam

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

Equilibrium of Rigid Bodies: Statics

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

In this article (and video above), we break down the equilibrium of rigid bodies, zooming in on how to figure out support reactions at a roller. We take you through each step to make it easy to understand and apply in solving support forces in complicated structures.

Question:

Consider the loaded system shown below with supports at A, B, C and D. What is the reaction force at D due to the applied 6kN load?

Explanation:

Mastering the Civil PE Exam: The 3-Pass Method Explained

April 2, 2024 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), I dive deep into a tried-and-true strategy for mastering the Civil PE Exam called the 3-Pass Method. This method isn’t just a theory; it’s a practical, time-tested approach that I found invaluable during my exam journey. So, let’s break it down and see how it can help you ace that test!

Time:

The Civil PE Exam, for example, is split into two 4-hour sections. While eight hours might seem ample, trust me, it flies by when you’re solving problem after problem. That’s why a solid time-management strategy is crucial, and that’s exactly where the 3-Pass Method comes in.

What’s the 3-Pass Method?

It’s a systematic approach to navigating the exam efficiently and effectively. Let’s go through each pass, step by step.

Pass 1: The Quick Wins

This initial sweep is all about quick wins and assessing the terrain. Here, you’ll flip through all 40 problems. Your goal? To identify and solve the simplest ones, ideally in less than a minute each. For those slightly trickier problems that you’re confident about but need 2-4 minutes, mark them with a “2” and move on. And for the real head-scratchers that leave you puzzled at first glance, give them a “3” and keep going. Aim to spend about 30-60 minutes on this pass in practice, but try to get it down to 30 minutes in the real exam. Ideally, you’ll have nailed at least 20% of the problems in this round.

Pass 2: The Steady Pace

This is where the heavy lifting happens. Now, you’ll revisit those problems marked with a “2”. These are the questions you feel good about, but they require a bit more time and thought. Your mission is to work through these methodically, averaging about 2-2.5 minutes per problem. Remember, if you’re stuck for more than 3 minutes, make a guess, mark it, and plan to come back to it in the final pass. Budget about 1.5-2 hours for this phase. By its end, you should have confidently tackled around 70-80% of the exam!

Pass 3: The Final Challenge

The final stretch. Now you return to the problems marked with a “3”. Often, you’ll find they’re not as daunting as they first seemed. Your brain’s been subconsciously processing them while you work through the other sections. Tackle these to the best of your ability. If there are still a few that baffle you, don’t sweat it. Guess, move on, and remember: you’ve built a solid foundation in the first two passes.

As the clock winds down, if you finish early, you have a choice: review your answers or wrap up and enjoy some extra time in your day.

Remember, the 3-Pass Method is a framework, not a rigid rulebook. Adapt it to your style, pace, and needs. Consistent practice, dedication, and strategic approaches like this are your keys to acing the Civil PE Exam.

I can personally attest to the effectiveness of the 3-Pass Method. It’s a game-changer. Practice it with your practice exams, and you’ll walk into the test day ready and confident.

This Episode Is Brought to You by PPI

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

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

5 Tips to Overcoming FE Exam Anxiety

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

In this article (and video above), I talk about a common yet often unspoken challenge many face while preparing for the FE Exam – exam anxiety.

Anxiety before a big test like the FE is natural. Often, this stems from feeling underprepared. You might worry that you haven’t studied enough or that your preparation methods aren’t effective. This feeling can be compounded by a fear of failure, especially when you’ve invested so much time and effort into your studies.

Past negative experiences with tests can also play a significant role. If you’ve struggled with exams before, it’s easy to worry that history might repeat itself. And then there’s the fear of the consequences – the thought that your entire future career hinges on this one exam can be daunting.

Interestingly, anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the U.S., affecting around 18 percent of the population. These disorders can develop from a mix of factors like genetics, brain chemistry, personality, and life events. Recognizing that you’re not alone in this can be a source of comfort.

Now, let’s identify the symptoms. Anxiety isn’t just a mental or emotional state; it manifests physically and behaviorally too. You might experience a racing heartbeat, sweaty palms, or stomach issues. Emotionally, there’s fear, worry, and a sense of impending doom. Behaviorally, you might find it hard to concentrate or become fidgety. Recognizing these symptoms is the first step in managing them. How can we overcome this anxiety when related to the FE exam?

Here Are 5 Tips to Overcoming FE Exam Anxiety:

The Power of an Engineering License – Insights from a CEO

March 19, 2024 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), I talk with Joy Lanham, PE, PTOE, President & CEO of Lanham Engineering, LLC, about the significance of attaining your engineering license, her journey of establishing her own company and the pivotal role the engineering license played in her success.

Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed in This Episode:

Having the word “engineering” in the business name often requires the majority owner to hold a PE license.
The PE license adds credibility to an engineer’s profile and assures clients of the individual’s competence. It signifies a commitment to the profession and a thorough understanding of engineering principles.
Larger companies often require a PE license for career progression.
Having a license opens up opportunities for project management roles and ownership positions within firms.
The PE license plays a crucial role in project proposals, client trust, and overall business credibility.
Obtaining a PE license provides flexibility and opens doors to various career paths, including entrepreneurship.

About: Joy Lanham, PE, PTOE

Joy Lanham, PE, PTOE is the President/CEO of Lanham Engineering, a DBE/WBE/EDGE certified traffic engineering firm she started in 2013. Her growing fully remote team produces both traffic studies and traffic design plans. Her current roles include business and people manager, accountant, business development lead, and often mans the IT help desk.

She is actively involved in professional organizations in Columbus including WTS, ACEC, ASHE, and ITE. She currently serves on the National WTS DBE/WBE/Small Business Committee, as the chair for the ACEC Ohio Small Firms Committee, and serves on the ACEC/ODOT Liaison Committee. She is passionate about mentorship, currently part of The Ohio State University Civil Engineering Mentorship program and co-chairs the WTS Columbus Mentorship Program.

Joy also serves as treasurer for non-profits including Yay Bikes, the OSU Women in STEMM Alumni Society, and her golf club’s Ladies Golf Association. Ms. Lanham holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from The Ohio State University.

Her likes include golf, Las Vegas, and true crime podcasts. Her dislikes include beets, the Boston Red Sox, and meetings that should be an email.

Sources:

Lanham Engineering, LLC
Connect with Joy Lanham, PE, PTOE, on LinkedIn

This Episode Is Brought to You by PPI

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

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

Determining Reactions at Supports for Beams and Frames

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

In this article (and video above), we determine reactions at supports for beams and frames. In this scenario, we analyze a beam supported by a pin at A and a roller at B, carrying various loads.

Question:

Consider the beam shown below. It is supported by a pin at A and a roller at B. It carries a distributed load as shown, spanning a distance of 3 meters from the beam’s left end. Additionally, it carries a concentrated load of 6 kN at its right end. Determine the reactions at A and B.

Explanation:

Draw the free-body diagram of the beam using equivalent forces:

Incorporate support reactions Ay and By. Omit extra x-direction force at A (pin support). Add 6kN concentrated load at the beam’s far-right end. Simplify distributed loads by converting them to equivalent point loads, preserving the original load’s impact on the beam.

Initiate the inspection by focusing on the far-left end of the beam. Examine the uniformly varying load, noting its gradual increase from zero at the left end to a maximum of 2kN/m along the beam.

Compute the equivalent load for the section by finding the area under the triangular curve. Using the formula for a triangle (half base times height) with a 1-meter base and 2 kN/m height, the result is a 1 kN point load. Consider the specific point where this force is applied for a comprehensive understanding.

To find the centroid of a right triangle, connect each vertex to the midpoint of the opposite side with medians. The centroid, acting as the balance point, is consistently located at two-thirds the length of the base from the angle opposite the right angle. This straightforward method simplifies geometric analysis.

The equivalent 1kN point force would act at a distance of 2/3 meters from the left side of the beam.

Proceed to the next step by addressing the rectangular distributed load. Calculate its equivalent point load using the same procedure as previously outlined.

Calculate the area under the rectangular curve to determine the 4kN equivalent load. Due to symmetry, place the equivalent point load at the rectangle’s center, located 2 meters from the left side of the beam.

Incorporate the final equivalent force into the free-body diagram and proceed to calculate reaction forces at supports A and B. A correct diagram ensures a straightforward calculation process.

Initiate the analysis with a force balance in the y-direction for the static beam, setting the sum of forces to zero. Formulate the equation: Force Ay + By – 1 – 4 – 6 = 0, simplified to Force Ay + By – 11 = 0. To resolve the two unknowns, introduce a moment balance about point A.

Designate anti-clockwise as the positive moment direction. Factor in the 1kN force at one-third of a meter from A (add 1/3), and the 4kN force at 1 meter causing a CLOCKWISE moment (subtract 4). Incorporate force By(2) positively and subtract 6(3). Confirm the resultant sum equals zero for equilibrium.

Equation 2 has been successfully solved, revealing that the value of reaction By is 10.833 kN.

Finally, the reaction By can be substituted into equation 1, revealing that Ay is equal to 0.167 kN.

Answer:

The correct answer is A.

Final Remarks:

Draw a clear and accurate free-body diagram
Identify the type of supports (pin, roller, fixed).
Apply the equations of equilibrium carefully.
Consider different loading conditions and beam configurations for practice.

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

PE 095: The PE Advantage: A CEO’s Blueprint to Professional Growth

March 5, 2024 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), I talk with Doug Shatto, PE, PTOE, the president and CEO of Lochmueller Group, about how the PE license can help someone in their career and how a consulting firm can promote and support professional growth in achieving the PE license.

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Doug:

How has the professional engineering license benefited your professional growth throughout your career?
How do you at Lochmueller Group promote and support your professionals in pursuing the PE License?
How do incentives for getting a PE license motivate young professionals and impact their long-term career opportunities?
Do you think promoting technical career paths and tying licensure to them is crucial in challenging the misconception that success is tied to managerial roles in our industry?
Considering the long-term, how does having a license impact future opportunities, like consulting or career changes?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode:

5 Essential Tips for Passing the FE Exam

February 28, 2024 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), I share 5 key tips for passing the FE exam. From setting a clear exam date to overcoming exam challenges, these tips will streamline your FE Exam preparation. Whether you’re starting or refining your strategy, these tips are your pathway to success.

1. Establish a Robust Schedule

Kickstart your preparation by setting a clear exam date. Utilize calendars, notepads, and reminders for organizational clarity. Given life’s complexities, developing a personalized system is pivotal for sustained focus.

2. Prioritize Rest and Breaks

Bid farewell to cramming. Embrace the significance of intervals and ample rest during your study sessions. Optimal retention stems from spaced-out learning. Avoid last-minute cramming sessions as they seldom yield positive outcomes.

3. Cultivate Accountability Partnerships

Tap into the strength of collective motivation by forming study partnerships. Creating study groups with disciplined peers sharing common goals enhances the quality of learning. The adage “two heads are better than one” holds true in this context.

4. Develop a Tailored Study System

Identify your preferred learning method. Whether dedicating a week to a single topic or utilizing various study materials like practice tests, flashcards, or videos, customize your study system to align with your learning style.

5. Extend Grace to Yourself

Acknowledge the formidable nature of the FE exam. Set pragmatic limits and grant yourself grace throughout the preparation process. Recognize that each journey is unique, and a one-size-fits-all approach is impractical. Learn from others but craft a study plan that harmonizes with your capabilities.

About Matthew Douglas

Matthew currently serves as the operations leader for the Engineering Management Institute. As a leader, Matthew’s goal is to ensure the efficacy and efficiency of the Learning and Development group. As 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 for private consulting firms and public agencies and has even held the 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, Matthew took on the role of a public works operations manager. There 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. He now uses his talents to lead EMI’s Learning and Development – Operational procedures, train engineers, and co-host podcasts.

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

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 the 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

Last-Minute Checklist for the PE Exam

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

In this article (and video above), I discuss something significant for those who are gearing up to take the PE Exam soon by walking through a last-minute checklist for the PE Exam to ensure you’re completely prepared for exam day.

1 – Essential Documents

First up, let’s talk about the non-negotiables: your documents. You absolutely need to have your NCEES Examinee Letter. Make sure it’s printed out and that your examinee ID number is correct. Equally important is your photo ID. Remember, it has to be government-issued, like a driver’s license or a passport. Student IDs won’t make the cut here.

2 – Calculator and Writing Tools

Moving on to the tools of the trade – your calculator and writing instruments. It’s vital to have an NCEES-approved calculator. Whether it’s from Hewlett Packard, Casio, or Texas Instruments, make sure it’s a model that’s allowed. We have another video focusing on just that – the allowed calculators. And don’t forget to pack a spare battery. For writing, a couple of sharpened mechanical pencils should be in your arsenal. Choose ones with 0.7mm lead for the best writing clarity.

3 – Personal Comfort Items

Let’s talk about personal items. While there are strict rules about what you can bring, there are a few things you’re allowed for your comfort and convenience. This includes your eyeglasses – but leave the case at home. You can also bring a sweater or jacket, and yes, even earplugs are permitted. These small comforts can make a big difference in your exam experience.

4 – Some Optional But Helpful Items

Now, onto some optional but helpful items. A highlighter can be a lifesaver for marking important information quickly. A clear plastic ruler can come in handy for diagrams and figures. And if you have a formula booklet or specific reference books that are permitted, definitely bring them along.

5 – Day Before Preparation

As for the day before the exam, it’s all about planning and organization. Check your route to the exam center and plan your travel with extra time for any unexpected delays. Pack your bag with snacks, water, and all your exam essentials. And, of course, double-check the exam date and time to avoid any last-minute panic.

And that’s it! Your critical item checklist for the PE Exam. With these tips, you’ll walk into the exam room feeling prepared and confident.

This Episode Is Brought to You by PPI

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

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

Cracking Truss Forces: Mastering Method of Joints

February 14, 2024 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), we calculate the internal forces of trusses using the method of joints. This is a classic example that you might encounter in the static section of the FE Exam. This problem was created and solved by Mechatronical engineer, Chanté van der Spuy.

Question:

Consider the truss shown below. It is subjected to a horizontal load of 5 kN at joint D and a vertical load of 5 kN at joint C. The horizontal and vertical reaction forces at joint A are given as 2 kN and 4 kN, respectively. Determine the force in member BD.