CA Seismic study plan

Define and calculate the fundamental seismic quantities - peak ground acceleration, spectral acceleration, period, and natural frequency - from given site and structure parameters

Distinguish the roles of ASCE 7 seismic design parameters (SDS, SD1, TL, site class) and map how each enters the design base shear equation

Compute design spectral accelerations SDS and SD1 from mapped MCE values for at least four combinations of site class and short-period/1-second values

Build a one-page equation sheet covering base shear, period, and spectral acceleration with variable definitions

Calculate the approximate fundamental period of a building using the empirical formula and compare it with the Rayleigh method estimate

Compute the seismic response coefficient Cs and apply all applicable limits (minimum, maximum, and SD1-based caps)

Determine the seismic base shear V for regular buildings of at least three different occupancy categories and site classes

Identify when the simplified analysis procedure is permitted versus when a dynamic analysis is required

Apply the equivalent lateral force procedure to distribute base shear over building height, computing story forces and story shears

Calculate the vertical distribution exponent k for varying structural periods and explain its effect on force distribution

Determine seismic design category by combining occupancy category and design spectral acceleration per the SDC tables

Explain how redundancy, overstrength, and deflection amplification factors modify design forces and displacements

Compare the response spectrum and design spectrum conceptually and explain how each is derived and used

Analyze how site class (A through F) shifts spectral demand and identify the soil conditions that amplify long-period versus short-period response

Interpret a given spectrum to estimate spectral displacement demand and relate it to drift limits

Diagnose common errors in period and damping assumptions that lead to nonconservative design

Explain how lateral force resisting systems (moment frame, shear wall, braced frame, dual system) differ in stiffness, ductility, and R-factor assignment

Determine the appropriate response modification coefficient R, system overstrength factor, and deflection amplification factor for at least four systems

Evaluate irregularity conditions (plan and vertical) and state the analysis and design penalties each triggers

Compute story drift including the Cd amplification and check against allowable limits

Trace how seismic loads flow through diaphragms, collectors, chords, and foundations to the ground

Calculate diaphragm design forces and identify the conditions requiring collector elements to be designed for amplified forces

Explain the purpose and mechanics of seismic isolation and supplemental damping, and identify when each is appropriate

Describe the design philosophy behind collapse prevention versus immediate occupancy performance levels

Solve timed mixed-topic problem sets covering period, base shear, distribution, drift, and irregularity to build exam pacing

Identify and correct your three most frequent error types from prior weeks and rework those problem categories

Derive the governing equations from memory without reference to notes

Explain code intent behind key seismic provisions in your own words to test conceptual understanding

Complete a full-length timed simulation under exam conditions and score it against the passing threshold

Review every missed item and classify each error as conceptual, computational, or misread

Re-drill the weakest three subtopics until you can solve representative problems without hesitation

Finalize a one-page rapid-reference sheet of formulas, limits, and factor tables for last-minute review