Studying for the Architect Registration Exam (ARE) while working full-time is no easy task. Between project deadlines, client meetings, and life outside of work, it’s tough to carve out time, and even tougher to stay consistent. At Black Spectacles, we know how demanding this process can be, and we’re here to help.
Whether you’re early in your licensure journey or picking it back up after a break, here are time management strategies to help you stay focused, build momentum, and make meaningful progress on your terms.
A strong study strategy starts with knowing what’s realistic. Maybe you only have 30 minutes on weeknights, or maybe weekends are your main window. That’s okay. The key is consistency.
With the Guided Study Process, your dashboard gives you a structured path forward, divided into daily tasks to help you stay organized and avoid decision fatigue.
Pro Tip: Build in buffer days. Life happens. A missed day doesn’t mean you’re off track; it just means you need a little flexibility.
You don’t need hours of study time to make progress. In fact, shorter sessions are often more effective for retention. Try:
Reviewing flashcards during your commute
Taking a quiz break during your lunch hour
Completing one video lesson and section quiz after work
What matters most is not how long you study; it’s how intentional you are with the time you have.
As a working professional, you already know how to manage deliverables. Apply that same mindset to your licensure journey:
Set weekly goals
Track progress on a calendar, spreadsheet, or other preferred tool
Celebrate milestones (like completing an objective or practice exam!)
And remember: Your ARE prep is part of your professional growth. It’s an investment in your future, not just another to-do.
Time is valuable, but energy is your real currency when you’re balancing work and studying.
Identify your most focused time of day and schedule study blocks then
Minimize distractions (close those tabs!)
Set clear boundaries between work time and study time
If you’re constantly exhausted, your brain won’t retain information no matter how many hours you put in.
At Black Spectacles, we believe long-term success requires sustainability. That means planning for downtime, not just study time.
Take one full day off from studying each week
Use weekends to reset, review, or prep lightly
Missed a few days? Don’t panic. Just pick up where you left off.
You’re playing the long game here and the goal is to finish strong, not fast.
One of the best ways to stay motivated is to surround yourself with others on the same path. Join (or form) a study group, attend a Virtual Workshop, or ask a question in the Black Spectacles Community.
With Black Spectacles, you’re never studying alone. Our tools are built to support collaboration, connection, and confidence.
Working full-time and studying for the ARE is a challenge, but it’s absolutely doable. With a plan, a bit of structure, and the right mindset, you can make real progress toward your goal of licensure.
At Black Spectacles, we’re here to support you every step of the way with tools designed to work around your life, not take it over.
Sign up today and start your licensure journey now!