5 Things You MUST Do Before Studying for the FE Exam

By Genie Prep Team

In this article, we’ll go over five essential steps to set yourself up for success on your FE Exam.

Taking these steps before diving into a study plan will make your preparation smoother, more manageable, and increase your chances of passing. Here’s what you need to do!

Tip 1: Specifications and Reference Handbook

Start by downloading the exam specifications and reference handbook from the NCEES website. Review the topics in the specifications and locate the relevant equations in the handbook. This will help you know what to expect and quickly find information during the exam.

Keep in mind, not all equations apply to every discipline (e.g., FE Civil can skip some dynamics and fluid mechanics). To help you, we’ve created a cheat sheet to clarify challenging concepts—make sure to download it!

Free resources to help you pass

Tip 2: Calculator

Make sure you have an NCEES-approved calculator, like the TI-36X Pro. Practice using it often while you study so you’re familiar with its functions. Knowing how to quickly perform calculations, solve integrals, handle matrices, and work with statistics on your calculator can save you valuable time during the FE Exam. Don’t forget to bring it with you on test day!

Tip 3: Research and Gather All The Study Resources

Picking the right study materials is a must. Get everything ready in advance so you’re not wasting time searching. If you’ve graduated recently, YouTube videos or ebooks might be enough. But if it’s been a while, a structured course might be a better fit.

Our Genie Prep FE Problem Set includes practice problems with video solutions for easy studying. For a more in-depth approach, our Genie Prep FE courses are designed for visual learners and have helped many students pass in 4-6 months.

A well-organized study plan will keep you focused, ensuring you cover all necessary topics without feeling overwhelmed.

Tip 4: Find Study Partners or Community

Studying alone can be challenging, so consider finding a study partner or joining a community.

Having someone to keep you accountable and share the journey with can make a big difference. If you don’t have a partner, join online communities on platforms like YouTube or Instagram. In our courses, we also offer access to a Discord community and personalized follow-up to keep students motivated and on track.

Tip 5: Create a Study Plan

A well-organized study plan will keep you focused, ensuring you cover all necessary topics without feeling overwhelmed. Rather than setting only a goal, create a program you can stick to. Your study plan should break down what you’ll cover each day or week, helping you make steady progress. And remember, if something isn’t working, adjust it! Everyone’s learning style is different, so find what suits you best.

These five steps will help you having a strong foundation for your FE Exam preparation. By familiarizing yourself with the exam materials, using the right tools, having a solid plan, and connecting with others, you’ll be eady to study effectively and confidently. If you want more details, you can find the link to the video here:

Subscribe for news, tips, and more