PE Exam

In this article (and video above), I break down three high-impact strategies that have helped thousands of engineers not just pass—but absolutely dominate the PE Construction Exam.

Tip #1: Master the Theory

If you want to crush the PE Construction Exam, you need more than surface-level knowledge. You need to understand the “why” behind what you’re solving.

Here are five resources will help you build that deep foundation::

1. PE Civil Reference Manual (PPI): A must-have. Focus only on the construction chapters and use it to clarify anything the NCEES handbook skips over.
2. Construction Depth Reference Manual: While it’s from an older version of the exam, it’s still highly relevant. It covers everything from estimating and scheduling to materials and earthwork.
3. School of PE Review Guide – Construction: Two volumes, full-color visuals, and QR codes for extra help. Ideal if you’re a visual learner.
4. Civil Engineering PE All-in-One Guide (Dr. Goswami): Broad, budget-friendly, and includes built-in practice problems. It’s a great one-stop resource.
5. Construction Methods and Management (Textbook): Yes, it’s a textbook—but this one’s different. Many engineers keep it as a reference even after the exam.

Use these resources to reinforce weak areas and get a deeper understanding of key concepts. That way, when a tricky question shows up, you’ll know exactly how to approach it.

Tip #2: Crush Practice Problems Like a Pro

Once your theory’s solid, it’s time to train for speed, accuracy, and endurance.

Here are six excellent resources packed with construction-specific problems:

1. PE Civil Practice Problems (PPI): These are tougher than the real exam—and that’s what makes them so valuable.
2. Six-Minute Solutions – Construction Depth (PPI): Quick-hit problems you can fit into a study break or morning routine.
3. School of PE’s Construction Practice Problems: Aligned with the current exam specs—relevant and fresh.
4. Construction Practice Problems (Dr. Mansour): Over 200 questions. Specs are slightly older, but just solve them using the current handbook.
5. 100 Bonus Theory Questions (Civil Engineering Academy): Theory-based questions are more common than you’d think. These will help you recognize how NCEES frames conceptual problems.
6. All-in-One PE Practice Exams (Goswami): Use this as a custom problem bank. Target construction-specific questions and work through them in sets.

Always practice with your exam calculator and the NCEES handbook as your only reference. Build muscle memory now, and you’ll save serious time on exam day.

Tip #3: Simulate the Real Exam with Full-Length Tests

You wouldn’t run a marathon without practice runs. The same goes for this exam. Taking full-length, timed, CBT-style exams is non-negotiable.

Start taking full-length exams 4–6 weeks before test day. Then take another one every week or so. Treat them like rehearsals, and you’ll go into the real test cool, calm, and ready.

Closing Thoughts:

Remember, the PE Construction Exam is tough. No one’s denying that. But with the right materials, a clear plan, and consistent effort, you won’t just survive it—you’ll conquer it.

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 monthly, 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