Customer Reviews

Six-Minute Solutions for Chemical PE Exam Problems

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I just took the PE exam (earlier today) and I used the six-minute solutions in my study prep. I have some pro's and cons.
Pros:
1. It covers the most of topics you will find on the exam.
2. The solutions work through the problems thoroughly and also explain why the incorrect answers are incorrect.
3. The problems are formatted like the test: multiply choice, one scenario per question. some of the other sample test will describe a scenario and then ask several questions that build on one another.
4. If you can blow through these problems you will not have any issues the the real thing.

Cons:
1. Errors. The are at least 12 errors in the scenarios and the solutions. Make sure you download the errata off the ppi website before you start or you be pulling your hair out.
2. The problems are much more difficult than what you see in the exam. Some of the solutions take 2+ pages (4 columns) of type written calculations! Six-minutes my arse. Don't be surprised if you send 45-60 minutes on a problem. They have problems that include several iterations and large amounts of calculations. There is even one extraction problem that they construct a to-scale graphical solution to determine number of stages. You will NOT see this on the test.


Bottom line: I recommend getting this as a part of your study materials. I was able work through all of the problems eventually, but don't let the difficulty of the problems get you down. The real test is not involved. Get the NCEES practice exam and use it as your timed trial test.

I definately recommend the Michael Lindeburg series of books especially the Reference Manual.

This little book is bigger than what meets the eye. Excersices are practical and explanations are very detailed. Anyone involved in Chemical Engineering practice should have one, at least to practice a few exercises to keep your engineering knowledge sharp. Consider it a chemical engineer "quick mental fitness manual".