The Control Systems Engineering (CSE) Study Guide offers an accessible overview of the knowledge and resources needed by engineers preparing for the Professional Engineering (PE) exam in Control Systems Engineering. It explains the exam format, eligibility, scheduling and test-day tips.
This book summarizes the official NCEES exam specifications and the major topics covered. It also includes curated reference lists, relevant codes and standards and sample exam questions with answers.
Published and organized by the International Society of Automation, this guide helps candidates focus their studies, select suitable reference materials and practice realistic problems. The tone is professional yet straightforward, emphasizing practical exam preparation rather than in-depth textbook theory. It is a valuable, exam-focused resource for students and early-career engineers seeking licensure in control systems engineering.
The Exam
The CSE exam is developed by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) and is offered once a year, in various locations across the United States. The exam was revised in 2022 and is now offered online.
As the sponsoring organization for the exam, ISA works with the CSE Committee to develop and update study materials as well as exam preparation courses. The Control Systems Engineering (CSE) Study Guide is a key resource for exam preparation.
Table of Contents:
Preface vii
General Information 1
Introduction 1
Licensing Requirements 2
Eligibility 2
Exam Schedule 2
Application Procedures and Deadlines 2
Exam Description 2
Exam Format 2
Exam Content 2
Exam Development History 2
Exam Procedures and Instructions 2
Tips for Taking PE Exams 3
References for the CSE Exam 5
General References 5 Codes and Standards 7
International Society of Automation (ISA) 7
American National Standards Institute (ANSI) 8
American Petroleum Institute (API) 9
American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) 9
International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 10
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 11
National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) 11
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 11
Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) 12
Appendix A CSE Exam Specification 13
NCEES Principles and Practice of Engineering Exam 13
Control Systems Exam Specifications 13
Appendix B Sample Questions 19
First Session 20
Second Session 35
Appendix C Answers to Sample Questions 49
Answers 50
Answers: First Session 51
Answers: Second Session 56
