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:
- Mechanical and Electrical Equipment for Buildings
- Architectural Graphic Standards, 11th Edition
(This book is essential for any architect to have, and is helpful for most of the exams)
- Sun, Wind, and Light: Architectural Design Strategies
- Building Construction Illustrated by Francis D.K. Ching
- The Architect's Handbook of Professional Practice
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:
- Log into My NCARB
- Click "Go" to access your NCARB Record
- Follow link for ARE Candidates: Construction Documents & Services Resources visible in the lower left of your Record.