Programming & Analysis (PA) is one of the most important technical divisions on the ARE 5.0 — and one of the most challenging for many candidates.
Unlike exams focused primarily on memorization, PA requires candidates to evaluate project goals, interpret zoning and code requirements, analyze site conditions, and make value-based design decisions similar to those architects make in real practice.
In this episode of ARE Live, architect and Black Spectacles Architect Education Specialist Chris Hopstock walks through several PA mock exam questions and explains how to approach them strategically.
You’ll learn:
If you're preparing for the ARE, you may also want to read our guide on how to pass the ARE 5.0 in 2026 with proven study strategies and exam order recommendations.
Chris explains that the PA division is unique because many questions require architects to make judgment calls based on client goals, programming requirements, zoning limitations, and site conditions.
Unlike math-heavy exams with one obvious correct answer, PA often tests your ability to evaluate priorities and determine the “best” solution among several viable options.
Chris notes that during the programming and analysis phase of a project, architects are constantly making value-based decisions — and the ARE reflects that reality.
This is why many PA questions focus heavily on:
One of the biggest challenges candidates face on PA is determining how to evaluate competing project priorities.
Chris explains that many ARE questions ask candidates to make decisions based on the client’s stated goals — not necessarily what the architect personally prefers.
For example, during a mock exam question about designing a suburban library branch, candidates had to balance:
Chris emphasized the importance of evaluating every answer choice against the client’s goals rather than focusing on personal design preferences.
A key takeaway:
The episode also covered an ARE-style code question involving corridor width requirements from multiple standards.
Candidates were asked to evaluate:
Chris explained that when multiple minimum requirements exist, architects must comply with the most restrictive requirement — which, for minimum dimensions, means selecting the largest number.
This concept commonly appears on:
Chris also shared an important ARE testing strategy:
The PA division frequently tests zoning analysis and early planning concepts.
During the episode, Chris reviewed zoning requirements that can impact the maximum gross area of a project, including:
Chris explained that zoning regulations generally fall into two categories:
Bulk regulations affect:
Use regulations govern:
Understanding this distinction is critical for zoning-related PA questions.
The episode also reviewed environmental design concepts frequently tested on PA.
One mock exam question focused on selecting the best orientation for an artist’s painting studio requiring:
Chris explained why north-facing light is traditionally preferred for artists:
The discussion reinforced the importance of understanding:
These concepts frequently appear throughout PA and PPD.
Efficiency planning is another major topic on the PA division.
Chris walked through a mock exam question involving a speculative condominium project focused on maximizing saleable area.
The episode compared:
Chris explained that double-loaded corridors are typically the most efficient because they maximize net usable square footage relative to gross building area.
This concept is important because developers often prioritize:
Chris also explained how efficiency questions frequently appear on PA because candidates are expected to understand how design decisions impact both programming and project economics.
Throughout the episode, Chris repeatedly emphasized the importance of practicing under realistic exam conditions.
Practice exams help candidates:
Chris noted that PA especially benefits from repeated practice because many questions involve architectural judgment rather than memorization alone.
Chris Hopstock is a licensed architect based in New York and an Architect Education Specialist at Black Spectacles.
At Black Spectacles, Chris helps develop ARE learning content and supports candidates preparing for all six divisions of the ARE 5.0 through educational resources, practice materials, and live instruction.
Join the discussion and revisit the webinar here.
Topics discussed during the live Q&A included:
No. Chris explained that PA focuses heavily on architectural judgment, programming analysis, zoning interpretation, and evaluating competing priorities — not just memorization.
The PA division commonly includes:
Very important. Chris emphasized understanding:
These concepts frequently appear on PA questions.
Chris recommended:
Chris recommended taking the technical divisions in this order:
Because the content naturally builds from:
Chris recommended averaging approximately 2.5 minutes per question while leaving some review time at the end of the exam.
Black Spectacles provides:
Black Spectacles practice exams are designed to closely simulate the real ARE testing experience so you can build confidence before exam day. Start studying today.