PE Exam

Why Skipping Topics for the PE Exam Could Cost You Big!

August 12, 2025 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), I talk about why skipping topics for the PE exam is a risky gamble that can hurt your chances of passing. I share some relatable examples (yes, including my own close calls), explain the big risks of leaving out parts of the syllabus, and give you practical tips to tackle those weaker areas without feeling overwhelmed. By the end of this post, you’ll see why covering all your bases is the smartest way to go – and you’ll feel more confident knowing you’re fully prepared for whatever the exam throws at you.

Why Skipping Topics is a Risky Gamble

First off, the PE exam covers a wide range of topics. And trust me, it’s designed to pull from all of them. The NCEES specifications list every topic that can show up — and if it’s on that list, you can bet it’s going to be asked during the exam. That’s why skipping topics for the PE exam can backfire.

Now picture this: you walk into the exam feeling confident, only to see multiple questions on that topic you avoided. Not only are you losing out on those points, but it can seriously throw off your focus. You start doubting yourself, wasting time flipping through your handbook for answers you didn’t prepare for.

Even worse? Every question is worth the same amount. That means you can’t “make up” for missed questions just because you’re stronger in another area. Skipping topics for the PE exam could be the difference between passing and failing.

Even Easy Points Can Be Lost

MASTERING Form 4A for the PE Exam Using a 5-Step Process

July 15, 2025 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), I walk you through everything you need to know about completing Form 4A using a clear, five-step process. Whether you’re filling it out for the first time or helping someone else navigate the process—this is the guide you didn’t know you needed.

I am going to use New York as an example, since I am licensed there—but keep in mind that the process may vary slightly from state to state.

What is a Form 4A?

Form 4A is the Verification of Experience form. It confirms that you’ve completed the engineering work required to qualify for licensure. It must be filled out by a supervisor, preferably a licensed PE, and submitted directly to the New York State Education Department (NYSED)—not by you. You can download the latest version of Form 4A directly from the NYSED website displayed on the screen and in the description of this video.

Now let’s talk about Completing the Form…

Step One – Applicant Information

You, the applicant, complete Section I. Enter your full name, date of birth, social security number or assigned ID, and the name of the university where you earned your degree.

For Example:

Name: John L. Doe
Date of Birth: 01/15/1990
SSN: 123-45-6789
School: Rincon Polytechnic Institute

Step Two – Verification of Experience

What to Do If You Fail the PE Exam (Beyond Logistics)

June 17, 2025 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), I talk about what to do if you fail the PE Exam and provide you with a powerful plan to reassess, refocus, and rise, so you can come back stronger, smarter, and more prepared than ever.

Let’s break it down into three powerful steps: Reassess. Refocus. Rise.

Step 1: Reassess

Now is the time to analyze your performance — not to beat yourself up about the fact that you did fail the PE Exam, but to learn and grow.

Reflect on:

Which areas were most challenging?
Did I run out of time?
Was it anxiety, or was it a knowledge gap?

While the experience is still fresh, take a moment to jot down the specific topics that challenged you. If available, go a step further and request a diagnostic report. This isn’t just about identifying what went wrong—it’s about uncovering what you can do better next time.

Step 2: Refocus

Crush the PE Construction Exam With These Methods

May 27, 2025 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

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::

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.
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.
School of PE Review Guide – Construction: Two volumes, full-color visuals, and QR codes for extra help. Ideal if you’re a visual learner.
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.
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:

PE Civil Practice Problems (PPI): These are tougher than the real exam—and that’s what makes them so valuable.
Six-Minute Solutions – Construction Depth (PPI): Quick-hit problems you can fit into a study break or morning routine.
School of PE’s Construction Practice Problems: Aligned with the current exam specs—relevant and fresh.
Construction Practice Problems (Dr. Mansour): Over 200 questions. Specs are slightly older, but just solve them using the current handbook.
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.
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

PE Exam Alert: Project Management Takes Center Stage in 2025!

May 13, 2025 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

Big changes are on the horizon for the PE exam in 2025 — and you need to be ready. Project management is moving into the spotlight, and mastering it will be critical to your success.

In this article (and video above), I break down exactly what this new emphasis means for you as a PE candidate, and share expert insights and actionable tips to help you tackle it with confidence.

Whether you’re an experienced engineer or just beginning your journey, this is a must-watch if you’re serious about passing the PE exam in 2025.

The engineering landscape is evolving, and the Professional Engineer (PE) exam is changing too. As of 2025, project management is taking center stage, becoming a crucial component that aspiring engineers must master. This shift reflects the growing importance of project management skills in the engineering field, where professionals are expected to lead projects efficiently and effectively.

Engineers often find themselves well-versed in technical skills but might struggle with the project management aspects. The challenges are real – from understanding the project lifecycle to managing resources and timelines effectively. Many might be thinking, “I’m strong in my technical field, but project management? That’s a whole different ball game.” And they’re right; it does require a different set of skills. The potential gaps in knowledge can be significant, especially for those who haven’t had extensive experience in managing projects.

Programs like EMI’s AEC Project Management Certification are specifically designed to equip engineering professionals with the essential project management skills they often don’t receive through traditional technical education.

From IRAN to US: Engineer’s Daring Journey to PE Licensure!

April 29, 2025 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), I talk with Matthew Shakerian, PE, CFM, project engineer at Elevation Land Solutions, about the real-world challenges of preparing for the PE exam while working full-time. Learn which study strategies made the biggest impact and how a resilient mindset kept him moving forward despite every obstacle in his journey to PE licensure.

Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked Matthew:

How did your experience moving from Iran to the US shape your approach to preparing for the PE exam?
How did you manage to balance your job, personal life, and studying while preparing for the PE exam?
What helped you stay calm and focused during the PE exam, especially when dealing with test anxiety?
What specific strategies or techniques did your psychologist share that helped you manage stress during the exam?
What study materials or resources did you find most helpful while preparing for the PE exam?
How did you manage your time during the actual exam to make sure you completed all the questions?
What final piece of advice you would give to other engineers currently preparing for the PE exam?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode:

How to Prepare for the PE Exam: 5 Key Steps to Simulate CBT Conditions

April 15, 2025 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), I provide 5 steps you can take to simulate the CBT—or Computer-Based Testing—conditions so you can walk into exam day fully confident and prepared.

With the PE Exam now fully transitioned to CBT, your success depends on how well you can work under the same digital conditions you’ll face during the actual test.

Why Simulating CBT Conditions Matters

The PE Exam isn’t just about knowing the material—it’s about how efficiently you can navigate problems on a computer, with limited resources, within a strict time frame.

Practicing in a similar environment helps you:

✅ Build speed and accuracy.
✅ Get comfortable with the digital NCEES Reference Handbook.
✅ Reduce anxiety on exam day.
✅ Improve your time management.

1: Practice with the Digital NCEES Reference Handbook

In the CBT format, you won’t bring your own notes or books—you’ll only have access to the digital NCEES Reference Handbook.

Why EVERY Engineering Firm Owner Needs a Professional Engineering License

April 1, 2025 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), I share why every engineering firm owner should prioritize obtaining a PE license, and how it can take your business to the next level—whether you’re just starting out or have been in the industry for years.

The High Risks of Operating Without a PE License

Running an engineering firm without a licensed engineer on board exposes your business to serious risks:

1. Legal Liability

Firstly, in some US states, professionals CANNOT be an owner in an engineering business without a license, so in this scenario, it’s an absolute must. However, even if it is legal to own a company without a PE license, firm owners may be personally liable if a project goes wrong. That means your own finances, assets, and reputation could be on the line. Legal action, fines, and settlements can quickly become devastating for both you and your business.

2. Project Failures

Projects led without licensed engineers often face delays, budget overruns, and quality issues. These problems hurt your firm’s credibility and can lead to negative word-of-mouth, bad reviews, and a lasting dent in your reputation.

3. Lost Client Trust

Potential clients are looking for qualified, trustworthy firms to handle their projects. If your firm lacks licensed professionals, it raises red flags, causing you to lose out on valuable contracts and growth opportunities.

4. Business Survival at Stake

In the worst cases, a firm without proper licensure may face financial collapse, forced closure, or legal shutdowns. The fallout doesn’t just affect solely the owners—it impacts employees, their families, and your wider community.

The Power of a PE License

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

March 18, 2025 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

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:

Get APPROVED for NCEES PE Exam with ACCURATE Work Experience Documentation

March 4, 2025 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 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?