Career exploration typically involves the investigation of personal factors: interests, aptitudes, values, and personal style. This digest outlines one counseling method, pattern identification exercise (PIE). PIE starts with past experiences and identifies personal patterns which are relevant to career decisions. A premise of PIE is that experiences which form the basis for career exploration can come from any aspect of life. A collaborative working relationship between counselor and client must be maintained throughout the process. The number of experiences to be analyzed varies, depending on motivation level and the amount of time available. Typically, the analysis would not extend beyond two or three experiences. Steps in conducting PIE involve asking the client to think about some activity from leisure, education, or work, which is particularly enjoyable. The client then describes in detail the positive and negative aspects of the activity. After a full discussion, the client then considers the types of patterns suggested by the information. At this point, the counselor can provide some input and reframe the discussion. Finally, the counselor and client can connect the above information and analyze career themes. PIE encourages clients to engage in activities which provide insights and which promote ongoing self-analysis. (RJM)