A Few Tips for CSE Candidates on Examination Preparation Seminars from CAB

A Few Tips for CSE Candidates on Examination Preparation Seminars from the California Architects Board
In response to comments received in the CSE Candidate Exit Survey, the California
Architects Board is pleased to provide you with the following information regarding the
oral format California Supplemental Examination and makes the following
recommendations:
1. Do your own research. The Board encourages you to do your own research on the
content of the examination based upon the Test Plan. Increasing numbers of
candidates are participating in examination preparation seminars and though the
Board does not endorse or review examination preparation seminars, it has become
aware of seminar answers that are incorrect. Developing your own knowledge,
based upon your education, research and experience will serve you better than
cramming.
2. Use the resource list the Board provides. The list is comprehensive and candidates
are expected to show that they can apply conceptual knowledge of those resources
as they relate to specific practice‐based scenarios. Take a holistic approach in your
studies with the goal of understanding concepts and processes. The CSE is not a
quiz on discrete elements (i.e. specific “chapter and verse”) of the documents.
3. Understand the format of the oral examination. The CSE is not like most other
examinations and understanding the characteristics of the testing environment, e.g.
panel, process, and protocol will be helpful.
4. Relax. (As much as possible) The Board, the Commissioners and the Proctors
understand the importance of the examination to you and are sensitive to the stress
associated with the process. During the examination, focus on the question and use
your own experience and knowledge to demonstrate your understanding of the
concept or process raised by the question.

Taken from News from The AIA California Council
In response to comments received in the CSE Candidate Exit Survey, the California
Architects Board is pleased to provide you with the following information regarding the
oral format California Supplemental Examination and makes the following
recommendations:
1. Do your own research. The Board encourages you to do your own research on the
content of the examination based upon the Test Plan. Increasing numbers of
candidates are participating in examination preparation seminars and though the
Board does not endorse or review examination preparation seminars, it has become
aware of seminar answers that are incorrect. Developing your own knowledge,
based upon your education, research and experience will serve you better than
cramming.
2. Use the resource list the Board provides. The list is comprehensive and candidates
are expected to show that they can apply conceptual knowledge of those resources
as they relate to specific practice‐based scenarios. Take a holistic approach in your
studies with the goal of understanding concepts and processes. The CSE is not a
quiz on discrete elements (i.e. specific “chapter and verse”) of the documents.
3. Understand the format of the oral examination. The CSE is not like most other
examinations and understanding the characteristics of the testing environment, e.g.
panel, process, and protocol will be helpful.
4. Relax. (As much as possible) The Board, the Commissioners and the Proctors
understand the importance of the examination to you and are sensitive to the stress
associated with the process. During the examination, focus on the question and use
your own experience and knowledge to demonstrate your understanding of the
concept or process raised by the question.

News taken from The AIA California Council newsletter