018 - Construction Observation: Breaking Down CE Section 2

Construction observation is the heart of the architect's role during construction, and it makes up the largest section of the CE exam. This episode breaks down what construction observation actually means and the critical difference between observation and inspection.

We cover why understanding design intent vs means and methods will save you on exam day and on site. We also walk through construction field reports, evaluating work for conformance, identifying non-conforming work, and the most common observation mistakes that create liability problems.

📝 Key topics covered:

• Observation vs inspection: why the distinction matters

• Design intent vs means and methods

• Construction field reports and AIA G711

• Evaluating construction conformance

• Limits of the architect's authority on site

• Non-conforming work identification

⏱️ Chapters:

(0:00) Introduction

(2:44) The CE Exam Structure

(7:27) What Is Construction Observation?

(14:44) Architect's Role on Site

(18:32) Evaluating Conformance

(22:25) Construction Progress

(25:25) Observation Mistakes

(30:29) How to Study Observation

(35:31) Conclusion

📖 Read the full blog post

📝 Download the FREE 2-page CE study guide

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📚 Individual ARE Exam Courses:

• CE 101 (Construction and Evaluation)

• AIA Contracts 101

• CCCA 101 (Construction Contract Administration)

• CDT 101 (Construction Documents Technologist)

• Building Codes 101

• PjM 101 (Project Management)

• PcM 101 (Practice Management)

• PA 101 (Programming and Analysis)

• PPD 101 (Project Planning and Design)

• PDD 101 (Construction Documents and Specs)

• Mechanical Systems 101