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In short
RPE is a 1 to 10 rating of how hard a set was, based on the reps you had left.
RPE 10 means no reps left. RPE 8 means two left.
Rate each set right after you finish it, then log weight, reps and RPE.
Rate the set you just finished
RPE is a 1 to 10 rating of how hard a set was. In powerlifting it comes from reps in reserve. Rate each working set the moment it ends. A heavy top set and a lighter back-off set get different numbers.
Learn the anchors
RPE 10 means nothing left. RPE 9 means one more rep, RPE 8 two, RPE 7 three and RPE 6 four. A set of five can be RPE 10. RPE rates the set, whatever the rep count.
Ask one question
Right after the set, ask if you could have done another rep to the same standard. Same depth, same pause, same lockout.
Five paused bench reps with two left in the tank is 5 at RPE 8. If you cannot rate a set, leave it blank.
Use the number
The program says RPE 8 and the set felt like a 9. Take a little off the bar next set and keep the reps. Sets that keep landing above target are a sign you need a deload.
An easier set gets logged too. Never add reps to prove a rating.
Turn it into an estimated max
Weight, reps and RPE give an estimated max. Add the reps you had left to the reps you did. 100 kg × 5 at RPE 8 counts as 7 reps.