Knowledge Tests
Communication between individuals through the use of words is a complicated
process. In addition to being an exercise in the application and use of aeronautical
knowledge, a knowledge test is also an exercise in communication since it involves
the use of written language. Since the tests involve written rather than spoken
words, communication between the test writer and the person being tested may
become a difficult matter if both parties do not exercise care. For this reason,
considerable effort is expended to write each question in a clear, precise manner.
The Knowledge Test Content and Format
The knowledge test contains questions of the objective, multiple-choice type.
This testing method conserves the applicant’s time, eliminates any element
of individual judgment in determining grades, and saves time in scoring.
How to Study for the Knowledge Test
You should follow your instructor’s advice on what and when to study. You
should recognize the advantages of planning a definite study program and following
it as closely as possible. Haphazard or disorganized study habits usually result
in an unsatisfactory score on the knowledge test. The ideal study program is
to enroll in a formal ground school course. This offers the advantages of a
school with professional instructors, as well as facilities and training aids
designed for pilot instruction. Many of these schools use audiovisual aids to
supplement classroom instruction or
provide individual computer-based instruction.
For the applicant who is unable to attend a school, the self-study method can
be satisfactory, provided the proper study materials are obtained, and a reasonable
amount of time is devoted to study. The applicant should establish realistic
periodic goals, and equally important, a target date for completion. Self-discipline
is important because it is too easy to “put off” the study period
for some other activity.
Preparing to Study for the Knowledge Test
Your instructor will direct you to the textbooks and other sources of training
and testing materials that are available from the Superintendent of Documents,
U.S. Government Printing Office, and the Regulatory Support Division’s
web site. http://www.faa.gov/about/office_org/headquarters_offices/avs/offices/afs/afs600
Your instructor may use commercial publications as a source of study materials,
and these materials may be desirable, especially for aircraft categories where
government materials are limited.
When to Take the Knowledge Test
Experience has shown that the knowledge test is more meaningful to the applicant,
and is more likely to result in a satisfactory grade, if it is taken after beginning
the flight portion of the training. For optimum benefit, it is recommended that
the knowledge test be taken after the student has completed a solo cross-country
flight. The operational knowledge gained by this experience can be used to the
student’s advantage in the knowledge test. Your instructor will be the
best indicator of your preparedness for the test.
Where to Take the Knowledge Test
FAA-Designated Computer Testing Centers have been certificated to administer
FAA knowledge tests. Applicants will be charged a fee for the administration
of FAA knowledge tests. Test registration numbers and a complete list of test
centers can be downloaded from the Regulatory Support Division’s web site.
http://www.faa.gov/about/office_org/headquarters_offices/avs/offices/afs/afs600
Contact your local FSDO to obtain information concerning an FAA-Designated Computer
Testing Center in your area.
Note: If you are enrolled in a part 141 school with test examining authority,
the school will administer the knowledge test during the curriculum. |
