The Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam is the critical first milestone on your journey to becoming a Professional Engineer (PE). However, it is not a hurdle to take lightly; according to NCEES data, approximately 20% to 30% of first-time test-takers fail.
Success on the FE depends heavily on your preparation strategy. While online courses offer structured guidance, prep books remain the most cost-effective and flexible option, allowing you to study at your own pace anywhere. For those who have previously struggled with the exam or require personalized instruction, private tutoring (online or in-person) is a highly effective supplementary option.
The Gold Standard: PPI FE Review Manual (3rd Edition)
Widely considered the best prep book on the market, the PPI FE Review Manual: Rapid Preparation for the Fundamentals of Engineering Exam by Michael R. Lindeburg, PE, is a comprehensive study system designed to help you pass on your first attempt.
This manual is more than just a textbook; it is a learning management tool that includes:
13 Diagnostic Exams: Targeted assessments to identify your strengths and weaknesses in each knowledge area.
Step-by-Step Solutions: Detailed walkthroughs that reinforce both the theory and the practical application of core engineering concepts.
A Robust Index: Thousands of terms indexed to facilitate quick referencing—a skill that is vital for the time-pressured environment of the actual exam.
Concise Explanations: Efficient reviews of the complex topics you will face on exam day.
Core Topics Covered
The PPI Review Manual provides an exhaustive deep-dive into the following disciplines:
Mathematics, Probability, and Statistics
Computational Tools & Engineering Economics
Statics, Dynamics, Kinematics, and Vibrations
Mechanics of Materials & Material Properties
Fluid Mechanics & Thermodynamics
Heat Transfer, Electricity, and Magnetism
Mechanical Design, Measurement, and Controls
Ethics and Professional Practice
The Essential Companion: The NCEES Practice Exam
While the Lindeburg manual is best for comprehensive review, you should always supplement it with the official NCEES Practice Exam booklet.
Available directly from the NCEES website, this booklet contains 100 practice problems that mirror the actual exam format. Its greatest value lies in the solutions, which show you exactly where to find the necessary equations within the NCEES FE Reference Handbook. Using these two resources together ensures you are not only knowledgeable in the theory but also proficient at navigating the only reference material allowed during the test.