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NCIDQ Blog

Don’t know where to start? Learn all about the NCIDQ Exam with our study guide for the big-picture overview.

Then you can learn what you need to know for each exam section. You’ll also receive our new free email study series.

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sustainable or green design

Sustainability and Green Design on the NCIDQ Exam

July 23, 2023 by
We've all heard of green design as another term for sustainable design. Sustainable design seeks to meet the design requirements of a project while minimizing the environmental impact, while improving human health and well being. Sustainability is a component of both the IDFX and IDPX Exams.
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Smiling girl with happy face

17 Tips to Take the Worry Out of Your NCIDQ Practicum Exam

July 19, 2023 by
While preparing for the NCIDQ Practicum Exam, you'll come across many factors that can either work for or against you. Not surprisingly, it's the strategies you use before and during that can make a difference.
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interior design legislative map

Why Have NCIDQ or Interior Design Legislation?

July 20, 2023 by
There's a misconception that interior designers only pick furniture, paint colors, and fabric, like the decorators that people see on TV. But registered, licensed, or certified interior designers do much more than the public realizes.
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What do I need to know about life safety codes and standards?

July 13, 2023 by

Life safety codes and standards are an important part of the NCIDQ Exam.

Get an overview of what you need to know here.

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What do I need to know about Universal Design for the NCIDQ Exam?

July 12, 2023 by
Universal Design is designing spaces and products so they can be used by everyone — disabled, able-bodied, young, and old.
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Success with Contract Documents on the NCIDQ Exam

July 3, 2023 by

Interior designers need to communicate their ideas to their client and construction crew.

Your knowledge of construction documents is key to your success not only as a designer but also passing the NCIDQ Exam.

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living room design

Interior Designers do more than just pick out pretty furniture!

June 30, 2023 by
There is so much more to your job than making a space pretty! The NCIDQ Exam is heavily weighted on the “paperwork” or non-design responsibilities of an interior designer. Learn the keys to success.
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NCIDQ Interior Design and Interior Decorating

So How is Interior Design Different from Interior Decorating?

June 29, 2023 by
The discussion of differences between Designers and Decorators places the spotlight on what works on both sides.
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Human Behavior and the Designed Environment

June 28, 2023 by
Interior design requires a deep knowledge of human behavior—physical, psychological, and cultural. The ability to understand and communicate with clients is very important. Designed spaces must support the individual lifestyle and functional needs of our clients.
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Interior Design Communication: It's About Show and Tell

June 27, 2023 by
Designers create visuals for clients, and to share information with other members of the design team.
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Learn about the NCIDQ Exam!
Learn about the NCIDQ Exam!

We answer your questions about when and how to apply, register, take and pass the NCIDQ Exam.

What's This About Programming and Site Analysis?

June 27, 2023 by
In interior design, programming is the process of gathering and analyzing information about a problem before trying to solve it with design.
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75% of new certificate holders were Qpractice Members

What's the NCIDQ Exam Pass Rate for Qpractice?

June 22, 2023 by

Think about how you’re preparing for the NCIDQ Exam right now.

What do you have? Other people’s notes and old practice drawings. Emails from a colleague who passed the exam, or maybe one that did not do so well...

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What is the NCIDQ appellation agreement?

What is the NCIDQ Appellation Agreement?

June 20, 2023 by

I recently received an email from one of our members who passed the NCIDQ Exam.

Her question is: “Could you help explain what the NCIDQ ‘appellation agreement’ is?”

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About NCIDQ Practicum Exam Computer-based Test

June 20, 2023 by

See video examples of the Practicum Exam format, and learn how the exam has changed for Spring 2023.

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Ever tried and failed? Fail again, better

Why no amount of studying will help you conquer the NCIDQ Exam

May 27, 2021 by
Accept failure for what is really is – a learning opportunity. But to make the most of it, you'll have to act on what you learned.
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CIDQ preliminary score report

How to really understand your NCIDQ Exam scoring

May 26, 2021 by
How do different NCIDQ test scores mean the difference between passing and failing? Learn about the new preliminary exam scoring, and the difference between passing points, raw scores and scaled scores.
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What’s Light Got To Do With It?

May 23, 2021 by

Did you know that orange light may help you concentrate? Or that bright light can make you crave spicier hot wings?

Lighting design isn’t just about aesthetics anymore; it’s affecting us in ways we may not have even realized.

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2021 Interior Designer Salaries

How much more can YOU earn with the NCIDQ Certificate?

June 20, 2023 by

One concern of many designers is about the cost of the NCIDQ Exam.

But simply looking at the cost of the exam without looking at the potential benefits is shortsighted. Especially when having your NCIDQ Certificate can have such a huge impact on your career options.

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FF&E Specifications: The Tip of the Iceberg

May 24, 2021 by
FF&E is an extensive subject. Making the initial selections is just the tip of the iceberg. Selecting FF&E also involves a lot of technical and legal issues, such as flammability and code requirements.
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