| Topic | Details |
| Topic 1 | - Design Communication Techniques: This section of the exam measures skills of an Interior Designer and focuses on translating research and concepts into clear visual formats. Test?takers show how they develop charts, infographics, and conceptual diagrams to convey ideas, and how they organize planning diagrams¡ªlike adjacency studies and zoning plans¡ªto guide the layout and functional relationships within a space.
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| Topic 2 | - Programming and Site Analysis: This section of the exam measures skills of an Interior Designer and covers the effective use of analytical techniques to understand a project¡¯s context. Candidates must show how they apply tools¡ªsuch as spreadsheets, diagrams, and photographic studies¡ªalongside research methods like observations and precedent studies to evaluate site factors including location, orientation, zoning restrictions, and existing conditions.
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| Topic 3 | - Life Safety and Universal Design: This section of the exam measures skills of a Design Consultant and addresses the principles that protect occupants and ensure accessibility. Candidates demonstrate knowledge of life?safety requirements¡ªsuch as egress paths, fire separation, and alarm coordination¡ªas well as universal design strategies that accommodate diverse abilities and special?needs populations.
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| Topic 4 | - Construction Drawings, Schedules, and Specifications: This section of the exam measures skills of an Interior Designer and covers the production and interpretation of technical documents. Test?takers must show mastery of drawing standards, dimensioning conventions, and code?required annotations, as well as the ability to develop plans, sections, elevations, schedules, and millwork details that accurately communicate design intent.
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| Topic 5 | - Technical Specifications for Furniture, Fixtures, & Equipment and Lighting: This section of the exam measures skills of a Design Consultant and examines how to specify FF&E and lighting systems. Candidates demonstrate an understanding of life?safety requirements, sustainability metrics, material performance standards, and how to choose appropriate fixtures¡ªconsidering factors like luminous efficacy, color rendering, and energy load¡ªto meet functional and environmental goals.
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| Topic 6 | - Relationship between Human Behavior and the Designed Environment: This section of the exam measures skills of a Design Consultant and covers interpreting how people interact with spaces. Examinees demonstrate an understanding of human factors¡ªfrom ergonomic dimensions to social and cultural influences¡ªand how universal design principles ensure accessibility and inclusivity, while also considering sensory impacts such as lighting, acoustics, and thermal comfort.
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| Topic 7 | - Interior Building Materials and Finishes: This section of the exam measures skills of an Interior Designer and explores the selection and specification of surface materials. Examinees must show comprehension of the performance standards, installation methods, and technical considerations for textiles, floor coverings, wall and ceiling treatments, acoustical products, and signage within interior environments.
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