The NCARB PDD exam, a crucial step for aspiring architects, delves into various aspects of architectural design and practice. It assesses your understanding of project development and documentation, a critical phase in the architectural process. This exam evaluates your grasp of fundamental design principles, including space planning, programming, and schematic design development. You'll need to demonstrate knowledge of architectural graphics and presentation techniques, ensuring effective communication of design ideas. The structural aspects of the exam cover foundational knowledge of materials and methods, as well as an understanding of building systems and their integration. Additionally, it tests your awareness of environmental considerations, such as sustainability and energy efficiency, which are integral to modern architectural practice. Legal and ethical aspects are also emphasized, ensuring you're well-versed in professional conduct and the legal framework governing architectural practice. The exam's scope extends to construction administration, where you'll be assessed on your ability to manage construction processes, including contract administration and site observation. Lastly, it evaluates your proficiency in project management, encompassing cost estimation, scheduling, and resource allocation.