Welcome to the Digital Products Page!
Are you struggling with all of the material and options that are out there for preparing for the CSE?
Are you so overwhlemed, you don’t know where to begin?
Well take a deep breathe as things just got easier…. you’ve come to the #1 resource on the internet for preparing for the California Supplemental Exam. Scroll down the page and check out the all new Ultimate Whole Enchilada, the ONLY resource you will need, all for INSTANT download, and a 30 Day Guarantee! See, I told you it was going to get easier.
Be sure to check out the LIVE! Seminar page for the SPECIAL “Seminar and Whole Enchilada Combo Deal” by clicking LIVE! Seminar.
Please note that ALL of the products on this page are Digital Products only and available for INSTANT download only. You will not receive hard copies of the material in the mail as this saves you the costs associated with shipping and sales tax. You are allowed to print out the materials for your own personal use. If you have any questions about any of the Study Materials on this page, please visit the FAQ Page.
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{ 67 comments… read them below or add one }
i’m using the 200 questions and answers to study this week and are an invaluable source because…
1. the questions focus on all aspects of the test plan categories and touch on all the knowledge statements
2. bullet point answers help you keep track of the important tidbits you’ll need to know to provide a clear, concise, and straight to the point answer; allows you room for your own little personal “nugget” at the end of each answer
3. the value of the material far surpasses the affordable cost of the guide
gilbert, thanks so much for the comments. i love how you are numbering your answers, good luck on the last oral exam!
David
i brought the whole package last week and found out it is so efficient to study w/ audio companion. i can also listen it when i do the lousy CAD drafting @ office. it’s very useful and i hope it’s also good for 2011 written format.
Hi Bird, Thank you for the comments and yes, rest assured the material is awesome for the 2011 format because CAB is still using the 2007 Test Plan. I’ve been saying that first and foremost, we need to know the material. Whether they are testing you orally or in a written format, you want to have a command of the subject matter. Good Luck in your studies!
David
Hi David,
I bought your “whole Enchilada” last weekend and have been having fun with it since! you have now become a familiar voice in my car….I want to thank you for what you are doing to facilitate this process for us…I like your simple approach and explanations and most of all your commitment…..although I have not received my package from PS? yet I have started to get familiar with the exam content and you have just made simple….. so ThankYou for that and I will be in touch…..
Hormoz
Hi Hormoz, You are so very welcome and thank you for the kind comments and I love the fact that I have become a familiar voice in your car. Repetition is SO important when preparing for this exam and the car is an excellent time to get in some extra studying time. Keep up the Good Work!
David
Last year I was licensed as California Interior Designer, then I passed all ARE exams and now I’m trying to pass this very complicated examination.
Within the last two years I became very familiar with different preparation guides and must admit that combination of David’s book and audio companion is extremely helpful tool for those who are willing to be licensed as an Architect.
I heard it from the ARE forum and wanted to try it because yours is the only one that come up with the Audio version! So, I bought the whole package and have been listening/ reading those materials since then…. well, it’s awesome!
It explains all of 55 Test Plan categories, point by point!. Plus.. it has a clickable links on the study guide that direct to the proper websites for further information… no need to Google it. Thanks David for putting all these materials together. The Audio, Study Guides and Q&A are very helpful to concentrate my study.. I’m just hoping that it covers all material for the ‘new’ multiple choice exam…So, I just need focus on your material without worrying other books!!
Hi Sue! thanks so much for the amazing compliment
While I do not claim that my material is the only material you will ever need for preparing for the exam, I do believe it can serve as a sollid foundation and be the core of your studies. I highly encourage all candidates to explore some of the other training material out there as well. Good Luck!
David
Hi David,
The study guide to be very streamlined and straight forward as you’ve addressed each of the knowledge statements. Helps me to stay on track after reviewing the mounds of reference material CAB lists for the CSE. The questions & answer guide I feel is also very helpful in preparing me to organize answers in practicing for the exam.
Hi Stan! Thanks for the streamlined and straightforward comment because that was one of my goals in putting everything together. Be sure to check out the podcast as well!
David
David,
I’m sure you get asked this all the time, but this material is all appropriate for the new written version right? Thanks.
Hi Sean, Yes i do get asked that question all the time, but it is a very good question. The CAB Test Plan has not changed, it is the same as the oral format and is based upon the 2007 CAB Test Plan. The material covers all 55 Knowledge Statements that are specified in the CAB Test Plan. I’ve been saying recently, it doesn’t matter how they test you, whether orally or written, you still need to know the material. Hope this helps!
David
I already purchased La Enchilada Entera, is there a way of paying for the webinar at a discounted price since I already purchased La Enchilada Entera.
Hi Omar, yes, you can absolutely sign up for the webinar with a discount because you’ve already purchased the whole enchilada. just send me an email to david@cseprep.com and i will send you the special link.
thanks, david
I think this is the best study prep guide for the CSE. To my knowledge, it is the only one that addresses each of the 55 knowledge statement point by point. It’s easy to get lost trying to memorize isolated information, but the organization of the material here is the best available.
David,
What a great material. I highly recommend it. It’s like getting a giant burrito, complete with sour cream and guacamole ! Try the whole Enchilada ….what else can you ask for, the price is right !!!
Good luck to all of us taking the CSE….:)
Hi Zen!
thanks so much for your comment, I couldn’t agree more, and I had a good chuckle
thanks, david
I downloaded the free 25 Questions and Answers. I don’t find any listing of the correct answers for those 25 questions. Can ;you show me where to find the correct answers?
Hi michael, thanks for downloading the 25 Q&A. The answers are after each question. I give more correct answers than some of the questions that are asked for. Some of the confusion is the 25Q&A is not a multiple choice guide. It gives the questions and suggested answers. I hope that helps! thanks david
Here is Question 1.
The client would like you to perform a site evaluation for their project. Name at least four
criteria you would use in the site evaluation.
1. Topography – look for slopes, where water will drain, and places for standing water to
accumulate
2. Placement of existing structures in relation to solar orientation
3. Movement systems, circulation and parking
4. Utilities systems – existing water/power/gas to site, where does it come in from
5. Review of soils report
6. Vegetation
7. Analysis of zoning requirements, setbacks, proposed use is currently allowed
Where in this do you show what you consider the four correct criteria? I still don’t see any indication of what the correct responses should be so I can better research and understand the questions.
Hi michael,
those are all correct answers. all of those could be considered duties during a site evaluation. remember the guide is not laid out in multiple choice format. when i ask for two or four, i like to give extra answers because i believe that’s more information you will have. so when you see “site evaluation” during the exam, 7 things will immediatley pop into your head.
thanks, david
David,
Thank you for the 25 Q&As and the podcast. I have enjoyed learning from you. I look forward to your seminar this weekend in Oakland and know that this will help me greatly in preparing for my upcoming CSE. Thanks.
Esther, it was a joy meeting you yesterday and having you in my seminar. Good luck with the test on friday, i’ll keep my fingers crossed!
thanks, david
I am enjoying “whole Enchilada” which is definitely exhaustive. Individual attention given to candidate in the webinar is another plus.
David, what do you think – note for multiple choice questions & answers that more answers are given than question requires, for information purposes.
hi suresh,
yes, that is correct, i have given more answers for information purposes. i’m in the process of trying to figure out the best way to revamp the 200 Q&A to a more multiple choice format but still give the additional information which is extremely important. once i get that figured out, everyone who has purchased from me, will receive the updated material. i’m glad you’re enjoying the whole enchilada. it goes nicely with the cold beverage of choice
thanks, david
David,
Your study material is just what I was looking for, a study guide with structure. The audio is a real plus. I can walk the dog and study at the same time!
hi glenn,
i love the comment about studying and walking the dog at the same time. i think that is a perfect way to help the info to sink in subconciously
good luck with the studies!
thanks, david
Thanks for making this great study package David. I have been learning a lot from the efficient audio files, study guide and mock exams. I’m looking forward to the seminar as well!
I feel you have condensed the info very well and it’s saving me a lot of time of compiling the same info. I also greatly appreciate the audio files since I spend a fair amount of time commuting in LA or working out. A great reinforcement to my other studying.
hi jen
thanks so much for the kinds words. i look forward to seeing you in the seminar soon
keep up the great work!
thanks, david
just wanted to report that i passed! your products and seminar were a significant part of my study materials. thanks again for making them available!
congratulations jen! thanks so much for the kind words and it was a joy having you in the seminar. you’re most welcome
thanks, david
The way you have developed the Study Guide makes all the information more understandable. My only minor comment is that it borders on an outline format with some additional information. Where the Archie Woo book has further explanation, but is NOT as well organized as your study guide. At present, I am using both. A MAJOR positive note; I’m really enjoying the podcasts and mp3 audio components.
Hi terri, thanks so much for the feedback. the format of the study guide was chosen after much consideration because i think it is most important to be able to remember the information. there is a fine line between too much information and becoming overwhelmed and not enough. i think the study guide strikes a nice balance and i’ve had several candidates tell me that using woo’s book is a nice compliment. i’m glad you’re enjoying the podcasts and i’m really enjoying doing them.
good luck with the studies!
david
David: Since I discovered your study materials only days before my exam date I downloaded just the “200 Questions” as a final review. The questions really clarified the material in a way that my own studying had not and also gave me a lot of confidence going into the exam. Thanks for providing this material in such a well organized and focused format.
Linda
Hi linda, thanks so much for the feedback! i really like the 200 Q&A guide and have had a few people let me know that they wish it was in multiple choice format, but i think so much good information comes across the way the guide is. i may develop a separate question and answer mutiple choice format guide as well.
keep studying and stay focused
thanks, david
Hi David,
I had been following the pod casts for a while and finally decided to check out the whole enchilada. I have to say that the study guide is exactly the jumping off point and motivation I needed. It has given a structure to my pile of reference materials and has given me a clear path to follow. Thanks!
Hi chris, that’s so great to hear! if i can motivate you, then i’m doing my job. focus, structure, and repitition are key elements in preparing for this beast. keep up the good work!
david
David,
I just wanted to say thank you again because…I passed! On the first attempt too. Your study material is fantastic.
Congratulations chris, awesome job! you are most welcome my friend
now go rock the profession with your new license
thanks, david
Are your 200 questions and answer guide in the 2011 format?
hi jon,
The Test Plan issued by CAB did not change when the Exam transitioned to the written format. The information is the same. With that said, the 200 Question & Answer Guide is set up to ask a question and then give multiple answers. For example, if a question asks for two of something, I might give five correct answers to give you more information to help you really understand the question.
I hope this helps!
thanks, davd
is the test oral anymore??
does your material cover data necessary for 2011 exam?
Hi ronald,
the last Oral Exam was last November, the Exam is now administered via computer and multiple choice format. The materials cover the knowledge statements as laid out in CAB’s Test Plan. Also, be sure to tune in to the CSE podcast for other helpful info.
thanks, david
I just acquired David’s CSE Study Guide, Audio Companinon and Questions and Answers. So far I’ve been playing the Audio everyday to and from work. It’s agreat! I’m basically reviewing the Study Guide in the evenings after work, and reviewing the material the next day with the Audio. I think the combination of the two can clarify and speed up my preparation for the exam.
Hi bertha! thanks so much for the kind words and i’m glad you’re finding the audio companion helpful. keep up the great work and keep us posted!
thanks, david
I recieved a letter of Congratulations from CAB this week. I took the computer based written exam April 27, so it took about 6 weeks to get the results. Thank you David for assemblying the study materials, they were very helpful and a great value as I see it.
Best of success to you and other candidates for the CSE.
Scott
congratulations scott! i’m glad the materials were helpful in getting you over the hump to pass the exam
now on to the next chapter in your architectural career,
thanks, david
David,
I bought your CSE Study Guide and Audio Companion in April ahead of taking the computer based CSE exam in March. Your study material was great. I had very limited time to study so your study guide really helped me to focus on the key points. Also, I drove from CO to CA to take the exam so I had a final few hours in the car that I really benefited from the audio companion. I highly recommend your study materials to anyone preparing for the CSE. I just received notification a few weeks ago that I passed the exam!
Gregg
I just downloaded the whole enchilada. I chose your study package because I heard a lot of great things about it from my peers. Thanks for the quick responses to my problems and questions, David. Im excited to get started on my studies.
I was thinking of buying the complete package but I was wondering if the exam simulator comes with the package. If it doesn’t, then I would like to know if it comes with a discounted price?
Hi armen,
Thanks for your interest in the study products. The Whole Enchilada is a completely separate product from the Online Multiple Choice Exam Simulator because OMCES is based upon 30 day access and is running on separate software. Also, the Whole Enchilada is a downloadable product, OMCES exists on the internet and you purchase access to it. There is no discount available for OMCES because it is already very competitively priced for access to 15 practice tests consisting of a bank of 625 questions.
good luck with your studies,
thanks, david
I just purchased “the whole enchilada” a week ago and oh boy it’s like I bought a whole banquet!!! so far I listened to it about 4 times already, IT’S A GREAT TOOL FOR THIS TEST, I am glad David that you have done all this work for us to take advantage of it !!! THANKS!!! I am looking forward to go to the seminar in November and PASS THIS TEST!!!
THANKS AGAIN!!!
MARIA
I just purchased your whole enchilada and so far i like what I’m reading and hearing. I’m from Utah so Seminars are tough to attend. I’m hoping your info can help me get through this test.
I appreciate all the links to the reference material. Although the first link to the Candidate Study Guide can’t be found. I tried to find it on CABs site but didn’t see it. Is this different than the CSE Handbook?
Thanks for the material. I look forward to learning from you in the weeks to come.
BJ
I’m glad that I decided to purchase ‘The Whole Enchilada’. The content is thorough and the formatting concise. Now I can’t wait to pass the CSE. Thanks David!
I purchased the CSE study guide and am well satisfied with the value received on the content.
thanks martin! i hope you are enjoying your studies
david
I purchased the whole enchilada and am now taking the OMCES and think this is a fantastic resource. Thank you David!!
you’re most welcome!
keep at it until you are getting 98-99% consistently for a score.
good luck!
thanks, david
Hello David,
I took my CSE test in September and missed the mark by a few points. I just watched your numbers tip video and you mentioned that you were unsure about the scoring. My results were out of 100 questions and i need a score of 70 (I got 68). I think there were about 125 questions on the test so 25 questions are used as samples. For some reason the passing % was lowered, 70 out of 100 questions is 70% not 74%. Everything else you mentioned in the video seems current. Looking into purchasing some of your help, it seems to have worked for others and hopefully i can catch a couple more points next time.
hi eric!
yes they lowered the score from 74 to 70 after the latest statistical analysis was completed late last year.
look forward to hearing from you in the future my friend,
david
David,
I started studying one week ago today with the Ultimate Whole Enchilada. This study guide is absolutely wonderful.
I have gotten through knowledge statement #33 including all the reference material outlined
in the study guide. I’ve thought to myself on numerous occasions that I needed to create a
chart or some kind of flow diagram to help clarify a process or organization and I’ll turn a
couple of pages and there it is all laid out for me. I still need to learn it, but it helps to have already laid out!
My plan is to finish up the rest of the knowledge statements (and the audio files) in another week, then spend a couple more weeks pulling it all together and finally take the CSE!
No worries about spreading the word. If anyone asks I will give them the CSEPrep website link. Your study guide has been invaluable!
Mike
Hi Mike,
thanks SO much for the awesome comments! yes, i agree, those 5 or 6 charts are so helpful. I’m glad you’re enjoying the process
keep me posted on your success,
david
Has anyone tried reading the Whole Enchilada on an iPad, iPhone or other mobile device? I want to have study material that I can access on the go and I am worried that downloading the Whole Enchilada to my home computer might prevent me from reading it on on my iPad because of digital rights management or other software issues. Thanks for the advice.
hi breck,
you won’t have any problem with the materials on any of those devices as long as you have the latest version of adobe acrobat reader. some candidates have emailed with issues and it was related to trying to open using bluebeam which won’t work. just be sure you’re using the latest version of adobe acrobat reader and you’ll be good to go!
good luck!
david
Hi David,
I recently purchased your Whole Enchilada (the name gives me a chuckle every time). I’m the type who would be more reserved in doling out compliments; perhaps a side effects from those torturing years of architecture education.
Anyway, as I began to dive into your study materials more and more, I found myself appreciating your effort to a point that I thought to myself I’d better jolt them down. So, here’s the list:
1. Refreshing – Your materials are absolutely a refreshing experience jumping from Kaplan’s ARE (theirs was full of mistakes; I wasted a lot of time then just to figure out they were wrong in the first place, not me!)
2. Thoughtful – At last, an architect who put together the information in a manner that speaks to an architect/designer’s mind and eyes! With visual clarity, logical progression, anticipation of possible questions in the candidates’ heads – all that with a sense of humor!
3. Personable – I must admit that initially I was a bit impatient in listening to your podcast; I have just finished my ARE and wanted to tackle CSE right away. But slowly, I found myself having a pre-victory dance to your music and started tuning in to your little chit-chat, esp. the life-bigger-than-architecture talk. So, now I listen to your podcast as a warm-up on days that my discipline is lacking before diving into the audio and the study guide.
Okay, I’m sure I’ll have more to appreciate as I go. But voilà, you deserve the recognition for a job well done!
hi catherine!
thanks SO much for the kind words and taking the time to write such thoughtful comments. it means a lot
yes, i think the podcasts are an acquired taste and i’m glad you developed your palette for them as i really enjoy doing them. one of my favorite podcasters is leo laporte over at twit.tv. it’s techy kind of stuff but his show this week in tech is good and I love mac break weekly.
keep up the great work and i’m sure i’ll hear from you soon!
david