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

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

Another thing — when you skip a topic, you’re not just avoiding the tough questions. You’re also missing the easy ones.

Let’s say you skipped Engineering Economics because you haven’t touched it in years. Well, what if one of the questions is just plugging numbers into a basic formula? That could’ve been a quick win — but not if you skipped it entirely. Giving each topic at least a little attention gives you the chance to pick up these easier points. That’s another reason why skipping topics for the PE exam is a risk not worth taking.

Topics Are More Connected Than You Think

Engineering topics aren’t always isolated. You might get a problem in Structural or Mechanical design that involves material properties — or a Civil question that relies on understanding soil behavior. If you’ve skipped the related topic, you could end up confused even on questions from areas you normally feel strong in. In short, skipping topics for the PE exam can hurt your performance in more than just that section.

So What Should You Do Instead?

Alright — we’ve covered why skipping is dangerous. But I get it, some topics feel overwhelming. So let’s talk about how you can still cover those areas without burning out. Here are 6 Tips:

Number 1. Focus on the Fundamentals
You don’t need to master every detail. For your weak areas, focus on basic principles and common question types. Often, that’s all it takes to get a few questions right. And again — even answering one or two questions correctly in that tough subject can make a big difference in your overall score. I just barely passed my PE exam, and there were a few topics I studied very little, but just enough to get some simple questions correct, which likely made the difference for me.

Number 2. Use the “At Least One” Rule
For every topic in the exam specifications, commit to learning at least one concept or formula really well. That way, if it shows up, you’re not totally lost. This is a simple way to reduce stress and still be prepared, even for your weaker subjects.

Number 3. Spread It Out
Don’t save your least favorite topic for the last week. Instead, mix it into your schedule early and revisit it in small chunks. You’re more likely to retain the info, and it’ll seem less intimidating over time.

Number 4. Leverage Different Resources
Sometimes it’s not the topic — it’s the way it’s explained. If a textbook isn’t clicking, try a video tutorial or a simplified guide. There are plenty of online resources that break down complex topics into manageable lessons. The key is to find the format that works best for you.

Number 5. Practice a Few Problems
You don’t need to do dozens — just try a handful of problems from each topic, even the ones you’re shaky on. It will help you get familiar with how those questions are asked and boost your confidence.

Number 6. Take a Practice Exam
Before the real test, take at least one full-length practice exam. It’ll reveal which topics you’re struggling with and give you time to fix those gaps.

Think of it as a trial run — and use it to catch any blind spots while there’s still time to improve.

Final Thoughts

I’ll leave you with this: the PE Exam is passable — but only if you prepare for all of it.

Skipping topics for the PE exam might save you time now, but it could cost you much more later — like failing the exam and having to retake it.

So take the time. Cover every topic. Even if you’re not aiming for perfection in your weak areas, make sure you’re familiar enough to pick up a few valuable points. The PE license is absolutely worth the effort. You’ve come this far — don’t let a few skipped topics stand between you and becoming a Professional Engineer.

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