Anthony Fasano

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Using outdated or irrelevant study materials can be a major setback.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

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:

Does Engineering Experience Count Before EIT Certification?

December 19, 2023 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), I answer a common question that many new engineers have, which is:

“Does your engineering experience count from the moment you begin working, or does it only start accruing after you officially obtain your EIT certificate?”

Before we dive into the crux of the matter, let’s first understand what an EIT certificate is. EIT stands for Engineer-in-Training, and it’s a crucial stepping stone towards becoming a licensed Professional Engineer (PE). To acquire this esteemed credential, aspiring engineers must pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, a national assessment that gauges their grasp of fundamental engineering principles in mathematics, science, and engineering.

Now, the question that’s been lingering in our minds: does engineering experience count before EIT certification? The answer depends on the state in which you seek licensure. Some states generously count engineering experience from the moment you embark on your professional journey, regardless of whether you’ve obtained your EIT certificate. However, other states adhere to a stricter timeline, only acknowledging engineering experience gained after EIT certification.

Now you might ask, how can I find out if my state counts engineering experience before EIT certification?

The best way to find out if your state counts engineering experience before EIT certification is to contact your state licensing board. You can find contact information for your state licensing board on the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) website.

As an aspiring engineer, it’s crucial to understand your state’s specific requirements regarding engineering experience and EIT certification. This knowledge will empower you to make informed decisions about your career path and ensure you’re on track to achieving your professional goals.

So, there you have it! The answer to whether engineering experience counts before EIT certification lies within the regulations of your state licensing board. Remember, knowledge is power, so don’t hesitate to reach out to your state’s licensing board for definitive answers.

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