The Top 5 Books & Resources Architects Need to Pass the ARE

There are really 5 books you need to have to study for the ARE®.  You also need to read the contracts that NCARB provides to you via your my.ncarb.org account.  Here are the top 5 books to help you prepare for the exams:

1. Mechanical and Electrical Equipment for Buildings
   
    
   
   
   
2. Architectural Graphic Standards, 11th Edition
   
   (This book is essential for any architect to have, and is helpful for most of the exams)
   
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3. Sun, Wind, and Light: Architectural Design Strategies
   
   
   
   
4. Building Construction Illustrated by Francis D.K. Ching
         
   
   
5. The Architect's Handbook of Professional Practice
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You will also need to read a couple of the contracts to study for the Construction Documents Exam, which you can download as noted below:

In cooperation with the AIA, NCARB is able to offer ARE candidates free access to key AIA documents for the purpose of preparing for the Construction Documents & Services division of the ARE. Interns may download the following sample documents through their NCARB Record:

To access documents:

1. Log into My NCARB
2. Click "Go" to access your NCARB Record
3. Follow link for ARE Candidates: Construction Documents & Services Resources visible in the lower left of your Record.