Preparing for the Illinois 105 Roofing Exam

You can try following these tips and strategies to improve your chances of succeeding in your endeavors.

To pass, the Illinois 105 Roofing Exam is one of the toughest examinations consisting of multiple questions pertaining to residential and commercial roofing. This exam actually is mandatory for receiving the Illinois roofing license. This holds the truth as it is always important to prepare well if you are to perform well on the day of the test. The following study tips and test-taking strategies will be of help in preparing for or passing the Illinois 105 test.

Create a Study Plan

The Illinois 105 test is a test that aims at establishing an individual’s proficiency in the English language and given the wide coverage of the materials that are tested, the test is quite comprehensive. It is important to avoid cramming as it is very unreceptive to study. Ensure that you dedicate at least 6-8 weeks to thoroughly revisit all the areas that are covered on the test. Divide the topic into key areas like roof materials, roof structure, estimation, etc . Learn for a limited amount of time a day instead of cramming all the topics at once. In your calendar, dedicate certain time intervals to studying and follow the schedule. 

Understand the Exam Format

It is also important that you know what the curriculum is of Illinois 105 and the areas of focus in order not to waste much time while studying. The exam consists of 125 multiple-choice questions, out of which 100 can be considered as scored questions, while the rest of 25 are pilot questions which are not considered in the final score. The four primary categories are roof construction, materials, cost, and safety. Based on the exam blueprint mentioned in the previous post, go through it and plan your time in the following manner.

Use Effective Study Techniques

Spend time reading chapters in your textbook, revisiting class notes and aim to learn intelligently and not just cram. While studying, write down the points that are to be remembered and make notes of the main points and important terms. Teach using instructional videos to catch up with any students who may have not understood some concepts. Use special exercises in areas where you have more troubles and solve more questions in those areas. For difficult concepts try to explain them to a friend or just mumble the words in front of a mirror. Make sure that you don’t start the exam tired, therefore ensure that you have enough sleep before going for the exam.

Time Management during Exam

Time management is also important during the test so make sure you allocate it properly. It helps to skim all the questions initially in order to understand how much time you will need to answer them. Questions do not stay put, do not hitch to the one asked. Give any answer you can, if you don’t have an answer, simply flag the question and come back to it later. In doubt, apply your reasoning abilities to make your best estimate. Ensure that you go through every answer before you complete your test. This suggests that it is possible to achieve a passing mark if all spaces are filled in on the test papers. 

Remember Safety Protocols

Safety questions account for 18%-22% of the test. It is advisable to study OSHA guidelines and requirements and ensure personal protective equipment, fall protection, ladder safety, and ideal operating procedures for roofing equipment or tools are well understood. Education on how to apply the various safety measures is definitely important for this line of work. 

Believe in Yourself

There is no better way to prepare for this rigorous exam than dedication and the confidence in one’s ability. Spend the remaining time on failed questions from the practice tests with the aim of grasping the concepts. It is important to remain motivated and confident in your abilities, which will help you accomplish your goals. Preliminary attitude can also make the difference when entering the examination room. You’ve read your books and studied for a number of hours, so, just go in there and perform excellently!

The Illinois 105 Roofing Exam requires time and effort in both preparing for and taking the exam. Adopt the following study planning strategies, exam formats, ways of reading and memorizing, time management, safety basics, and confidence boosters. It’s not very long and if you work hard and apply yourself in the right way, you will be on the right path to having a career as a licensed roofing contractor in Illinois. You've got this!