Multiple Choice 

When was Archiflash last updated?
Have you revised the cards to reflect the changes to the ARE Version 4.0?
How can I get the most out of Archiflash?
How is the material in Archiflash presented?
How many cards are in each section?
Who wrote Archiflash?
What is the success rate of people who have used Archiflash?
How do I know which edition I have?

Graphic Vignettes

How many sample solutions are in the Solutions book?
Are the sample vignettes in the book the same as those in the Practice Vignettes ?
How do I use the Practice Vignettes on the computer?
How do I use the Pencil and Paper Practice Vignettes?
How many samples are in the Practice Vignettes?
Why are the Practice Vignettes only available as electronic files?
Who grades my solutions?
Are there any workshops being offered?

When was Archiflash last updated?

Archiflash is updated on an as-needed basis. Currently we are selling the 6th edition, © 2006.

Have you revised the cards to reflect the changes to the ARE Version 4.0?

We will publish a new edition of Archiflash in Mid December, 2008. This exciting new edition will be the first Archiflash software product. This will provide you with many additional study features such as search and sort variables, immediate updates and timed practice exams to name a few.  You will also be able to print the entire deck for on-the-go studying. Our 6th edition will remain in print for those of you who are continuing with the exam through June 2009. The content contained in our current edition is applicable to 4.0. As NCARB states, it is mostly a reorganization of the exam.

How can I get the most out of Archiflash?

Our customers tell us that the following strategy has been invaluable in preparing for the exams.

Although Archiflash is divided into each multiple choice division, a review of the complete set prior to taking any of the multiple-choice exams will improve your performance.

Due to the inherent interdependence of architectural topics, some crossover information within the ARE is inevitable. For example, Pre-Design may deal with issues found in General Structures or Construction Documents and Services. Or, a General Structures topic may require some knowledge found in the Building Design/Materials and Methods division, etc.

When studying, focus on the division of flashcards that corresponds to the exam you are taking. However, for best results we suggest skimming the remaining flashcard divisions. This will increase your awareness of related topics and improve your exam performance.

We recommend starting the ARE with the division you feel most confident about passing. This approach will familiarize you with the nature of the exam, the testing center, and the time limitations. Once you have gotten your feet wet, be persistent, stick to a study schedule and move on to the other divisions with confidence.

How is the material in Archiflash presented?

There are a variety of card types within each section. There are multiple choice questions with the answer and explanation on the back. There are cards that have a word or term on one side and the definition and explanation on the other. There are cards that have a diagram on one side with elements that you must identify, with the answer and explanation on the back. The structures cards may have a structural diagram along with a question pertaining to it on the front and the answer and explanation on the back. Some structures cards have a formula presented on one side with the explanation on how to use it on the back, and others have helpful charts. There are also straight question and answer cards.

How many cards are in each section?

Pre-Design, General Structures, Building Design/Materials & Methods, and Mechanical Systems each contain 216 cards. Lateral Forces and Construction Documents each contain 144 cards. Each complete set contains 1,152 cards.

Who wrote Archiflash?

The information contained in Archiflash was compiled from a variety of sources: Reference books from the NCARB ARE Guidelines, architects, engineers, professors, interviews with successful candidates, and customer feedback.

What is the success rate of people who have used Archiflash?

Since the first publication in 1994, thousands of Archiflash users have been thanking us for creating a simple, effective and inexpensive way to study for the ARE. Many, many customers report passing the first time having only prepared with Archiflash. All tell us they believe they would not have been successful without it. In addition, Archiflash has been purchased by many universities, architectural libraries, professional offices, and college professors who have told us they find it an extremely valuable tool. Click here to read customer feedback.

How do I know which edition I have?

Every Archiflash card has a copyright date printed on the card. The latest edition is Copyright 2006, the 6th edition. Copyright 2005 is the 5th edition. Copyright 2003 is the Revised 4th edition. Copyright 2001 is the 4th edition, Copyright 1998 is the 3rd edition, Copyright 1996 is the 2nd edition. The original first edition, Copyright 1994, does not have a copyright date on the cards. 

How many sample solutions are in the Solutions book?

There are two passing and two failing sample solutions for each of the 11 vignettes. These are not the same solutions that are in the Practice Vignettes.

Are the sample vignettes in the book the same as those in the Practice Vignettes?

No. They are all unique.

How do I use the Practice Vignettes on the computer?

Professor Norman Dorf's Practice Vignettes are designed to be solved using NCARB's free practice software.  A .pdf document of unique problems and sample solutions will be emailed to you. The problems use identical NCARB base drawings. However,  the program requirements have been revised sufficiently to require you to produce entirely new solutions.

How do I use the Pencil and Paper Practice Vignettes?

Professor Norman Dorf's Pencil and Paper Practice Vignettes contain two or more problems for each vignette. They are designed to be solved manually and offer alternate problems for additional practice. Solutions are included.

How many samples are in the Practice Vignettes?

Practice Vignettes have one sample solution for each vignette except for Interior Layout, which has two. In addition, there are two Schematic Design Practice Vignettes.

Why are the Practice Vignettes only available as electronic files?

For expediency and eco-friendly purposes.

Who grades my solutions?

A team of graders that comprise Architects who have successfully passed the ARE as well as collegues of Professor Dorf who were trained by him and follow his grading methods.

Are there any workshops being offered?

Professor Dorf's legendary graphics workshop is available 24/7, online. This 7.5 hour lecture covers all 11 vignettes and is an invaluable resource. There will be no need to travel to a workshop. Check out a preview.