Zanno wrote:I've only taken PDD (taking PPD in a few weeks) and I had a handful of structures questions, maybe one that required a calculation (which was a simple one).
How did you do?
boohboomagoo wrote:Ive found they're focusing more on how architecture coordinates with structure. studying basic concepts is also important like shape consideration for seismic but these are reviewed quickly and are quite straight forward. Also I wish that I would have studied ALL chapters of Chings code illustrated, because short questions about foundation design and things that I generally don't focus on in the office crept in there, and had I done a page though of Ching's diagrams I would have known the correct answers that follow up pretty basic foundation design requirements. Although the a few loading questions still were asked, generally the math was very simple. It was nothing like school. So. I think this is much has been cleaned up. I found myself caught up more so with math questions about budgeting for materials and finishes- things like;
Will this change order add cost? Stuff I do everyday- But that takes time to read, review and answer- The structural calculation stuff was small in comparison.
Important Concepts- YES
Study why the architecture failed in Kansas City on the "bridge" connection design. Actually I recently saw a youtube video of "major architecture fails" and found it ironic how "crafted" the exam integrated these concepts into questions. Expect these concepts cleverly placed into questions- connection design and details need to be considered. Usually logically thinking though the diagram resolves the problem.
There is other easy concepts to always remember like; when structural puts K bracing in a wall. You shouldn't' propose a window there. or even a door in some cases. Questions focus on testing these concepts in a broader sense so don't expect a true false style write up about this. It's usually in a series of 4 or 5 related questions at the end of the exam where they're testing you on coordination concepts.
I think the best thing to study is offer to help with a Code Sheet at the office, review occupancy and life safety review and be active in these conversations at the office. I do this all the time and found that honestly about 40% of the "this is tough" questions were based around your familiarity with IBC chapters 2 - 7. Some chapter 10 Exiting, but really not as much as previous versions of the exam. I felt like 4.0 was practically a memorization game for IBC chapter 10... which... memorizing these things (although people do it) isn't as good as just knowing where to look and what chapter IBC covers it when you're reviewing work.
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