PA Exam Overview
Programming & Analysis tests site evaluation, programming, environmental analysis, and code compliance. It has approximately 75 questions and a 3 hour 20 minute time limit.
What to Study First
- Building Codes (IBC) - Occupancy classifications, construction types, height and area limitations. This is the foundation for most PA questions.
- Site Analysis - Topography, drainage, solar orientation, wind patterns, soils, utilities.
- ADA/Accessibility - Accessible routes, parking, ramps, restrooms, signage requirements.
- Zoning and Land Use - FAR, setbacks, lot coverage, variances, conditional use permits.
- Programming - Space requirements, adjacency matrices, client needs analysis, programming methodologies.
Reading Site Plans
PA frequently shows site plans, topographic maps, and diagrams. Practice reading:
- Contour lines: Lines close together = steep slope. Lines far apart = gentle slope. Water flows perpendicular to contours.
- North arrows and sun paths: Know how to orient a building for optimal solar exposure.
- Utility locations: Where are water, sewer, gas, and electrical connections? Which direction do they flow?
- Setback lines: Can you identify the buildable area from a site plan?
Read the full site analysis deep dive
Code Compliance Strategy
When a PA question references the IBC, use this systematic approach:
- Identify the occupancy classification (A, B, E, F, H, I, M, R, S, U).
- Determine the construction type (I-A through V-B).
- Check height and area limitations (IBC Table 504.3, 504.4, 506.2).
- Apply any increases for sprinklers, frontage, or separation.
See the code compliance cheat sheet
Study Resources
- PA Flashcards - 400 cards on codes, site analysis, and programming
- PA Mini Exams - 30 timed practice exams
- PA Common Mistakes
- ADA Cheat Sheet
- Zoning & Land Use Deep Dive
- PA Exam Day Walkthrough
- PA Glossary
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