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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.
The NCIDQ Interior Design Fundamentals Examination (IDFX)
The Interior Design Fundamentals Exam (IDFX) for 2021 tests your knowledge of:
- Programming and Site Analysis 10%
- Relationship between Human Behavior and the Designed Environment 10%
- Design Communication Techniques 10%
- Life Safety and Universal Design 20%
- Interior Building Finishes and Materials 10%
- Technical Specifications for Furniture, Fixtures, & Equipment and Lighting 15%
- Construction Drawings, Schedules, and Specifications 20%
- Professional Development and Ethics 5%
Here are some examples of the types of topics covered per content area on the Interior Design Fundamentals Exam:
Sustainability and Green Design on the NCIDQ Exam
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.
What do I need to know about life safety codes and standards?
Life safety codes and standards are an important part of the NCIDQ Exam.
Get an overview of what you need to know here.
What do I need to know about Universal Design for the NCIDQ Exam?
Universal Design is designing spaces and products so they can be used by everyone — disabled, able-bodied, young, and old.
Success with Contract Documents on the NCIDQ Exam
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.
Human Behavior and the Designed Environment
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.
Interior Design Communication: It’s About Show and Tell
Designers create visuals for clients, and to share information with other members of the design team.
What’s This About Programming and Site Analysis?
In interior design, programming is the process of gathering and analyzing information about a problem before trying to solve it with design.
What’s Light Got To Do With It?
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.
FF&E Specifications: The Tip of the Iceberg
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.
Surefire Interior Design Steps to Land Yourself in Jail
The Life Safety theme persists throughout the Practicum and the Multiple Choice Exams for a good reason. It serves beyond your NCIDQ Exam preparation and can be a life saver.
Find out why.
Which Lighting System is Best on the NCIDQ Exam?
The key to understanding lighting for each section of the NCIDQ Exam — IDFX, IDPX, or Practicum — is to know the different lighting systems. Know why one type of lighting may be better than another for a specific purpose, one environment or for certain people using a space.
