American Planning Association Changed AICP Questions

Systems analysis is a method to evaluate complex problems by modeling relationships between actions and outcomes, often using quantitative tools. Option B (useful when problems can be bounded and relationships modeled) accurately describes this approach, as systems analysis requires defining a system’s boundaries and modeling inputs and outputs. The APA’sAICP Certification Exam Content Outline(2022), under “Research and Assessment Methods,” definessystems analysis as “a method for evaluating problems that can be bounded, where relationships between actions and results can be modeled.” Option A (political and social factors) is incorrect, as systems analysis focuses on technical modeling, not social dynamics. Option C (decision trees) describes a specific tool, not the broader method. Option D (organizational limitations) is a secondary concern, not the primary focus. TheCPC Study Manual(2024) states, “Systems analysis is effective for bounded problems where relationships can be modeled mathematically,” supporting option B.

Pierre Charles L’Enfant’s 1791 plan for Washington, D.C., introduced a pattern of radial streets connecting major locations (e.g., the Capitol, White House), overlaid on a grid, creating a distinctive urban form that influenced American city design. Option C (pattern of radial streets) is the most significant contribution. The APA’sAICP Certification Exam Content Outline(2022), under “Fundamental Planning Knowledge,” states, “L’Enfant’s plan for Washington, D.C., introduced radial streets connecting focal points, a design innovation that shaped U.S. city planning.” Option A (grid pattern) was already common (e.g., Philadelphia). Option B (central open space) was not unique to L’Enfant. Option D (waterfront orientation) was not a primary feature of his plan. TheCPC Study Manual(2024) confirms, “L’Enfant’s radial street pattern was his most influential contribution to U.S. city design,” supporting option C.

Program evaluation criteria follow a hierarchy from broad to specific: goals (broad aims), objectives (specific targets), criteria (standards for assessment), and measures (quantifiable indicators). Option C (goals, objectives, criteria, measures) correctly reflects this order. The APA’sAICP Certification Exam Content Outline(2022), under “Plan and Policy Development,” states, “The hierarchy for program evaluation is goals (broadest), objectives (specific targets), criteria (evaluation standards), and measures (operational metrics).” Options A, B, and D invert this logical progression—e.g., measures cannot precede criteria or objectives. TheCPC Study Manual(2024) confirms, “Evaluation criteria follow the hierarchy of goals, objectives, criteria,and measures, moving from broad to operational,” supporting option C.

Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) programs aim to protect specific areas (e.g., farmland, historic sites) from development by allowing landowners to sell development rights to other areas where growth is desired. Option B (protecting an area from development) accurately reflects this goal. The APA’sAICP Certification Exam Content Outline(2022), under “Plan and Policy Development,” defines TDR as “a tool to protect areas from development by transferring development rights to designated receiving areas.” Option A (extinguishing development potential) is incorrect, as TDR preserves potential by relocating it. Option C (vesting rights) is unrelated to TDR’s purpose. Option D (slowing development) is a secondary effect, not the primary aim. TheCPC Study Manual(2024) states, “TDR programs are designed to protect areas from development by redirecting growth,” supporting option B.