Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT) — Questions and Answers

Question 1: The word CANDID most nearly means:

Honest and straightforward (Correct answer)
Deceptive
Polished
Secretive

Correct answer: Honest and straightforward

Candid means truthful and straightforward; frank in expressing opinions.

Question 2: How is the raw AFQT score initially computed before converting to a percentile?

By multiplying Mathematics Knowledge by 2 and adding all verbal scores
By summing all 9 ASVAB subtest scores and dividing by 9
By averaging the four subtest scores directly
By doubling the Verbal Expression (WK + PC) score and adding Arithmetic Reasoning and Mathematics Knowledge (Correct answer)

Correct answer: By doubling the Verbal Expression (WK + PC) score and adding Arithmetic Reasoning and Mathematics Knowledge

The raw AFQT score is calculated as 2×VE + AR + MK, where VE (Verbal Expression) is the sum of WK and PC scaled scores.

Question 3: Electric cars are becoming increasingly popular due to their efficiency and environmental benefits. Unlike traditional vehicles, they produce no emissions, which helps reduce air pollution. Why are electric cars considered better for the environment than traditional vehicles?

They are more expensive to operate.
They use less gasoline.
They produce no emissions. (Correct answer)
They travel faster.

Correct answer: They produce no emissions.

The passage clearly states that electric cars "produce no emissions, which helps reduce air pollution." This direct statement highlights the environmental benefit of electric cars compared to traditional vehicles. The absence of emissions is the key factor making them better for the environment.

Question 4: A military discount offers 20% off a $150 pair of boots, then an additional 10% off the discounted price. What is the final price?

$108.00 (Correct answer)
$100.00
$105.00
$112.50

Correct answer: $108.00

First discount: $150 × 0.80 = $120. Second discount: $120 × 0.90 = $108.00. Note: Two successive discounts of 20% and 10% are NOT equivalent to a single 30% discount.

Question 5: R͟e͟m͟i͟t͟ most nearly means:

send back (Correct answer)
give in
complete
request

Correct answer: send back

To "remit" means to send (money) in payment, or to cancel or refrain from exacting (a debt or punishment). In a broader sense, it implies sending something back or away, often to a lower authority or for a specific purpose. "Send back" captures the essence of transferring or returning.

Question 6: "The medic treated the wound with practiced efficiency, her movements economical and precise." The phrase 'practiced efficiency' suggests the medic:

Was unsure of the correct treatment
Was performing the procedure for the first time
Had developed skill through repeated experience (Correct answer)
Was following orders reluctantly

Correct answer: Had developed skill through repeated experience

'Practiced' implies repeated experience, and 'efficiency' confirms she performed the task skillfully without wasted effort.

Question 7: What is 15% of 240?

30
42
36 (Correct answer)
24

Correct answer: 36

15% of 240 = 0.15 × 240 = 36.

Question 8: "Though widely used, the procedure had never been formally validated in a combat environment, raising questions about its reliability under field conditions." The author implies that:

Lack of field validation leaves the procedure's reliability uncertain (Correct answer)
Wide use guarantees a procedure's effectiveness
The procedure is known to fail in combat
Combat environments are too dangerous for any validation studies

Correct answer: Lack of field validation leaves the procedure's reliability uncertain

The author says the procedure was never validated in combat, which creates doubt ('raising questions') about its real-world reliability.

Question 9: Read the passage and answer the question: "Although the mission had been meticulously planned, unexpected terrain and adverse weather forced the team to improvise. The squad leader later credited their success to adaptability rather than the original plan." What is the central lesson the passage conveys?

Adaptability can be more decisive than prior planning (Correct answer)
Weather is the greatest threat on any mission
Squad leaders should not take credit for success
Planning is unnecessary in military operations

Correct answer: Adaptability can be more decisive than prior planning

The squad leader explicitly credits success to adaptability, making that the passage's central lesson.

Question 10: Problems, when unresolved, tend to m͟u͟l͟t͟i͟p͟l͟y͟.

increase (Correct answer)
replicate
disappear
explode

Correct answer: increase

To "multiply" means to increase greatly in number or amount, or to reproduce. In the context of problems, it means they grow in quantity or complexity. Therefore, "increase" is the most direct and accurate synonym, indicating that the number or severity of problems expands when left unaddressed.

Question 11: The word RELUCTANT most nearly means:

Angry
Eager
Confident
Unwilling (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Unwilling

Reluctant means unwilling and hesitant; disinclined to do something.

Question 12: What does "attrition" most nearly mean?

Rapid growth
Sudden destruction
Complete recovery
Gradual reduction in numbers through sustained losses (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Gradual reduction in numbers through sustained losses

Attrition refers to the gradual wearing down or reduction of strength through sustained pressure or losses.

Question 13: If 𝑎2=64, what is 𝑎?

8
-8
Both -8 & 8 (Correct answer)
4

Correct answer: Both -8 & 8

The equation a² = 64 asks for a number that, when multiplied by itself, equals 64. Both 8 * 8 = 64 and (-8) * (-8) = 64 satisfy this condition. Therefore, 'a' can be either 8 or -8, as both positive and negative values, when squared, yield a positive result.

Question 14: The word VIVID most nearly means:

Producing powerful feelings; bright (Correct answer)
Faded
Dull
Silent

Correct answer: Producing powerful feelings; bright

Vivid means producing powerful feelings or strong, clear images in the mind.

Question 15: How long must a recruit typically wait before retaking the ASVAB after a first attempt?

One year
Six months
One week
One month (Correct answer)

Correct answer: One month

After a first ASVAB attempt, recruits must wait at least one month before retesting; subsequent retests also require a one-month wait, and a third retest requires a six-month wait.

Question 16: The word TEDIOUS most nearly means:

Exciting
Too long and slow; boring (Correct answer)
Difficult
Dangerous

Correct answer: Too long and slow; boring

Tedious means too long, slow, or dull; tiresome and monotonous.

Question 17: What is the value of √(144) + √(25)?

19
17 (Correct answer)
13
15

Correct answer: 17

√144 = 12 and √25 = 5, so 12 + 5 = 17.

Question 18: Richard drives from his home to work at an average speed of 50 miles per hour. Later he drives from his work to home at a speed of 60 miles per hour. What is his average speed over the two trips?

55 miles per hour
56 miles per hour
54.5 miles per hour (Correct answer)
55.5 miles per hour

Correct answer: 54.5 miles per hour

To calculate the average speed for a round trip, you must use the formula Total Distance / Total Time. Let 'd' be the distance one way. The time for the first trip is d/50 hours, and for the return trip is d/60 hours. The total distance is 2d, and the total time is (d/50 + d/60) = (6d/300 + 5d/300) = 11d/300 hours. Dividing total distance by total time (2d / (11d/300)) gives 600/11, which is approximately 54.54 miles per hour, rounded to 54.5 mph.

Question 19: An applicant scores 45 on the AFQT. In which category does this score fall?

Category IV (10–30)
Category IIIB (31–49) (Correct answer)
Category IIIA (50–64)
Category II (65–92)

Correct answer: Category IIIB (31–49)

A score of 45 falls within Category IIIB, which spans percentile scores from 31 to 49.

Question 20: The word 'feasible' most nearly means:

Possible and practical to accomplish (Correct answer)
Extremely expensive
Already completed
Impossible to achieve

Correct answer: Possible and practical to accomplish

Feasible means something is possible, practical, and likely to succeed. Military planners assess whether missions are feasible based on available resources, time, and conditions.

Question 21: Which military branch requires enlistees (with a high school diploma) to score at least 35 on the AFQT?

U.S. Marine Corps (32)
U.S. Navy (35) (Correct answer)
U.S. Air Force (36)
U.S. Army (31)

Correct answer: U.S. Navy (35)

The U.S. Navy requires a minimum AFQT score of 35 for high school diploma holders, while the Army requires 31, the Marine Corps 32, and the Air Force 36.

Question 22: What is the minimum AFQT score required to enlist in the U.S. Army (for non-prior service enlistees with a high school diploma)?

31 (Correct answer)
26
50
36

Correct answer: 31

The U.S. Army requires a minimum AFQT score of 31 for high school diploma holders to qualify for enlistment.

Question 23: A soldier runs 3 miles in 24 minutes. At this pace, how long would it take to run 5 miles?

40 minutes (Correct answer)
35 minutes
45 minutes
30 minutes

Correct answer: 40 minutes

Rate = 24 min / 3 miles = 8 min per mile. For 5 miles: 5 × 8 = 40 minutes. Set up a proportion: 24/3 = x/5, cross-multiply to get x = 40.

Question 24: The Sahara Desert is the largest hot desert in the world, covering much of North Africa. Despite its harsh environment, it is home to a variety of plants and animals adapted to extreme heat and scarce water. What is unique about the plants and animals in the Sahara Desert?

They are adapted to extreme conditions. (Correct answer)
They live only in water.
They can survive without sunlight.
They migrate seasonally.

Correct answer: They are adapted to extreme conditions.

The passage explicitly mentions that the Sahara Desert is home to "plants and animals adapted to extreme heat and scarce water." This adaptation to harsh conditions, such as extreme heat and limited water, is what makes them unique in such an environment. Their ability to thrive despite these challenges is a key characteristic.

Question 25: A convoy of 8 vehicles each carries 275 gallons of water. What is the total water carried by the convoy?

1,900
2,200 (Correct answer)
2,100
2,400

Correct answer: 2,200

8 × 275 = 2,200 gallons.

Question 26: If 2/3 of a number is 18, what is the number?

36
27 (Correct answer)
12
24

Correct answer: 27

If (2/3)n = 18, then n = 18 × (3/2) = 27.

Question 27: The word ADVERSARY most nearly means:

Advisor
Spectator
Opponent (Correct answer)
Ally

Correct answer: Opponent

An adversary is one's opponent in a contest, conflict, or dispute.

Question 28: The word OBSOLETE most nearly means:

Valuable
Required
No longer in use (Correct answer)
Modern

Correct answer: No longer in use

Obsolete means no longer produced or used; out of date.

Question 29: L͟u͟m͟i͟n͟o͟u͟s͟ most nearly means:

opaque
busy
radiating (Correct answer)
dark

Correct answer: radiating

"Luminous" means emitting or reflecting light; shining. It describes something that is bright or glowing. Therefore, "radiating" is the closest synonym, as it describes something that gives off or sends out light or heat.

Question 30: B͟i͟l͟a͟t͟e͟r͟a͟l͟ most nearly means:

both
multiple
two-sided (Correct answer)
uni-lateral

Correct answer: two-sided

The prefix "bi-" means two, and "lateral" refers to a side. Thus, "bilateral" means relating to or affecting two sides. "Two-sided" is the most direct and accurate definition, indicating involvement or presence on both sides.

Question 31: "Soldiers deployed to arid regions must consume water at regular intervals even when they do not feel thirsty, because dehydration can impair judgment before thirst is perceived." According to this passage, why should soldiers drink water even without feeling thirsty?

Dehydration affects judgment before thirst signals appear (Correct answer)
Water is more available in arid regions than in other climates
Thirst is an unreliable indicator of physical fitness
Regulations require a fixed water intake schedule

Correct answer: Dehydration affects judgment before thirst signals appear

The passage explicitly states that dehydration impairs judgment before thirst is felt, making regular hydration essential.

Question 32: "Despite rigorous screening, some recruits who appear physically qualified during induction develop stress fractures within the first weeks of training." What does 'rigorous' mean as used in this sentence?

Inexpensive and routine
Quick and informal
Thorough and demanding (Correct answer)
Optional and flexible

Correct answer: Thorough and demanding

Rigorous means extremely thorough and strict, which describes a demanding screening process.

Question 33: The word PLAUSIBLE most nearly means:

Certain
Unlikely
Impossible
Seeming reasonable (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Seeming reasonable

Plausible means seeming reasonable or probable; appearing valid or acceptable.

Question 34: Read the sentences and determine the relationship: "Training under realistic conditions increases stress. However, it also dramatically improves performance in actual combat." The relationship between the two sentences is:

The second sentence provides an example from the first
The second sentence explains a cause of the first
The second sentence repeats the first in different words
The second sentence contradicts the first with a positive outcome (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The second sentence contradicts the first with a positive outcome

The word 'however' signals a contrast — the second sentence introduces a benefit that offsets the drawback stated in the first.

Question 35: When reading a passage on the AFQT, what is the best strategy for answering 'main idea' questions?

Choose the answer with the most specific details
Read the entire passage, identify what most sentences are about, and find the answer that captures the central theme (Correct answer)
Read only the first sentence and choose the answer that matches it
Look for the longest paragraph and base your answer on it

Correct answer: Read the entire passage, identify what most sentences are about, and find the answer that captures the central theme

The main idea encompasses the central theme of the entire passage, not just one part. Reading the full passage and identifying what the majority of content supports is the most reliable approach.

Question 36: The paragraph best supports the statement that:

not being able to write a proper letter can impact employment (Correct answer)
teachers should write application letters for their students
employability is dependent on a student’s level of education
schools are required to find jobs for their students

Correct answer: not being able to write a proper letter can impact employment

A paragraph discussing the importance of proper letter writing likely emphasizes its role in professional communication, such as job applications or cover letters. If one cannot write a proper letter, it can create a poor impression or fail to convey necessary information, directly hindering opportunities for employment. This highlights the practical impact of communication skills on career prospects.

Question 37: A basketball team scored 76 points in a game. If they scored 24 points in the first half, how many points did they score in the second half?

54
56
50
52 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 52

To find the points scored in the second half, subtract the points from the first half from the total points. The team scored 76 points in total and 24 points in the first half. Therefore, 76 - 24 = 52 points were scored in the second half.

Question 38: The word PRUDENT most nearly means:

Wise and careful (Correct answer)
Dishonest
Impatient
Reckless

Correct answer: Wise and careful

Prudent means acting with or showing care and thought for the future.

Question 39: Members of a team must u͟n͟i͟f͟y͟ in order to succeed.

discuss
unite (Correct answer)
compromise
play well

Correct answer: unite

To "unify" means to make or become united, uniform, or whole. For a team to succeed, its members must come together as one cohesive unit, working towards a common goal. Therefore, "unite" is the most accurate synonym for unify in this context.

Question 40: The AFQT score is expressed as a percentile. What does an AFQT score of 65 mean?

You scored higher than 65% of the reference group of 18–23 year old Americans (Correct answer)
You answered 65% of the questions correctly
You are ranked 65th among all applicants who took the test that day
You need 65 more points to qualify for military service

Correct answer: You scored higher than 65% of the reference group of 18–23 year old Americans

AFQT scores are percentile ranks based on a 1997 nationally representative sample of 18–23 year old Americans, so a 65 means you outscored 65% of that reference group.

Question 41: A square has a diagonal of 10. What is the area of the square?

25
√50
50 (Correct answer)
100

Correct answer: 50

For a square with diagonal d, area = d²/2 = 100/2 = 50.

Question 42: Solve for x: log₂(x) = 5

x = 32 (Correct answer)
x = 25
x = 10
x = 64

Correct answer: x = 32

log₂(x) = 5 means 2⁵ = x, so x = 32.

Question 43: A soldier runs a 5-mile course in 40 minutes. At the same pace, how long would it take to run 8 miles?

56 minutes
72 minutes
64 minutes (Correct answer)
60 minutes

Correct answer: 64 minutes

Rate = 40/5 = 8 min/mile; 8 × 8 = 64 minutes.

Question 44: Which of the following ASVAB subtests contributes to the AFQT score through the Verbal Expression composite?

Electronics Information
General Science
Word Knowledge (Correct answer)
Mechanical Comprehension

Correct answer: Word Knowledge

Word Knowledge (WK) is one of the two subtests—along with Paragraph Comprehension (PC)—that combine to form the Verbal Expression (VE) composite used in AFQT calculation.

Question 45: A cylinder has a radius of 3 and height of 10. What is its volume?

60π
90π (Correct answer)
30π
270π

Correct answer: 90π

Volume of a cylinder = πr²h = π(3²)(10) = 90π.

Question 46: A passage states: 'Unlike conventional warfare, counterinsurgency requires winning the support of the local population.' What type of relationship does the word 'unlike' establish?

A chronological sequence of events
A comparison showing similarities
A contrast between two different approaches to military operations (Correct answer)
A cause-and-effect relationship

Correct answer: A contrast between two different approaches to military operations

The word 'unlike' is a contrast signal word that indicates the author is highlighting differences between conventional warfare and counterinsurgency approaches.

Question 47: Which of the following is an example of a supporting detail rather than a main idea?

Leadership is the most critical factor in unit cohesion.
Studies show units with rotating leadership report lower cohesion scores. (Correct answer)
Military culture emphasizes loyalty and discipline.
Effective communication builds trust among team members.

Correct answer: Studies show units with rotating leadership report lower cohesion scores.

A specific study result is a supporting detail that backs up a broader claim, not a main idea in itself.

Question 48: What is the distance between points (1, 2) and (4, 6)?

25
3
7
5 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 5

Distance = √((4-1)² + (6-2)²) = √(9+16) = √25 = 5.

Question 49: Word: Imply What does "imply" most nearly mean?

To suggest (Correct answer)
To prove
To state directly
To demand

Correct answer: To suggest

To "imply" means to suggest something indirectly, rather than stating it explicitly. Therefore, "to suggest" is the correct synonym, as it conveys the idea of hinting or indicating something without direct declaration. "To state directly" is the opposite.

Question 50: Benjamin Franklin is often credited with the invention of bifocal glasses. These glasses allow people to see clearly at different distances by combining two lenses into one frame. What are bifocal glasses designed to do?

Help people see clearly at different distances. (Correct answer)
Improve peripheral vision.
Magnify distant objects.
Protect eyes from sunlight.

Correct answer: Help people see clearly at different distances.

The passage states that bifocal glasses "allow people to see clearly at different distances by combining two lenses into one frame." This directly describes their function and purpose. They are specifically designed to correct vision for both near and far objects within a single pair of glasses.

Question 51: The word INCESSANT most nearly means:

Quiet
Occasional
Rare
Never stopping; constant (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Never stopping; constant

Incessant means continuing without pause or interruption.

Question 52: Word: Abundant What does "abundant" most nearly mean?

Limited
Plenty (Correct answer)
Difficult
Rare

Correct answer: Plenty

The word "abundant" means existing in large quantities or being plentiful. Therefore, "plenty" is the closest synonym, as it also refers to a large or sufficient amount of something. Options like "rare" and "limited" are antonyms.

Question 53: The word CONCISE most nearly means:

Brief and clear (Correct answer)
Repetitive
Lengthy
Confusing

Correct answer: Brief and clear

Concise means giving a lot of information clearly and in few words.

Question 54: A machine prints 30 newspapers in 20 minutes. At this rate how many hours would it take to print 900 newspapers?

10 (Correct answer)
8
9
7

Correct answer: 10

First, determine the machine's printing rate. It prints 30 newspapers in 20 minutes, which means it prints 1.5 newspapers per minute (30/20). To find out how long it takes to print 900 newspapers, divide the total number of newspapers by the rate per minute: 900 / 1.5 = 600 minutes. Finally, convert minutes to hours by dividing by 60: 600 minutes / 60 minutes/hour = 10 hours.

Question 55: What is 3/4 of 240?

120
180 (Correct answer)
200
160

Correct answer: 180

3/4 × 240 = 720/4 = 180.

Question 56: "The commander issued a terse order: 'Fall back to the rally point.' No further explanation was given." The word 'terse' most nearly means:

Confusing and unclear
Calm and reassuring
Brief and abrupt (Correct answer)
Lengthy and detailed

Correct answer: Brief and abrupt

Terse means brief to the point of seeming rude or curt, matching an order given with no additional explanation.

Question 57: AFQT Category IIIA corresponds to which percentile score range?

93–99
50–64 (Correct answer)
31–49
65–92

Correct answer: 50–64

AFQT Category IIIA covers scores from 50 to 64, placing recruits in the above-average range of the reference population.

Question 58: "Regulations stipulate that all personnel must wear reflective gear during nighttime physical training." The word 'stipulate' most nearly means:

Suggest as optional
Require as a specific condition (Correct answer)
Define without enforcement
Prohibit under any circumstances

Correct answer: Require as a specific condition

Stipulate means to demand or specify as a requirement, which aligns with a regulation mandating certain behavior.

Question 59: What is the purpose of scanning a passage before reading it carefully on a timed test?

To skip paragraphs that seem difficult
To count the number of words in the passage
To memorize every detail in the passage
To get a quick overview of the topic, structure, and key terms before detailed reading (Correct answer)

Correct answer: To get a quick overview of the topic, structure, and key terms before detailed reading

Scanning provides a mental framework before detailed reading, helping you understand the passage's structure, identify key concepts, and read more efficiently under time constraints.

Question 60: What is the valid AFQT score range?

10 to 90
200 to 800
1 to 99 (Correct answer)
0 to 100

Correct answer: 1 to 99

AFQT scores range from 1 to 99 as percentile ranks; a score of 1 is the lowest possible and 99 is the highest.

Question 61: The word BENEVOLENT most nearly means:

Greedy
Cruel
Well-meaning and kind (Correct answer)
Indifferent

Correct answer: Well-meaning and kind

Benevolent means well-meaning and kindly; wishing good things for others.

Question 62: "Soldiers who kept detailed field journals were better able to write accurate after-action reports than those who relied solely on memory." Which conclusion is best supported by this statement?

After-action reports are more important than field journals
Memory is completely unreliable for all military personnel
Field journals are required by military regulation
Detailed notes improve the accuracy of later reporting (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Detailed notes improve the accuracy of later reporting

The passage directly links keeping detailed notes to more accurate after-action reports.

Question 63: A recruit's scores on four fitness tests were 85, 92, 78, and 89. What score is needed on the fifth test to achieve an average of 88?

92
88
90
96 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 96

Target total = 88 × 5 = 440. Current total = 85 + 92 + 78 + 89 = 344. Needed score = 440 - 344 = 96.

Question 64: Word: Diligent What does "diligent" most nearly mean?

Lazy
Hasty
Hardworking (Correct answer)
Careless

Correct answer: Hardworking

"Diligent" describes someone who is careful and persistent in their work or duties, showing a strong work ethic. "Hardworking" perfectly captures this meaning, as it implies putting in consistent effort and care. The other options are antonyms or unrelated.

Question 65: The word PRESUMPTUOUS most nearly means:

Respectful
Overstepping proper limits; arrogant (Correct answer)
Cautious
Modest

Correct answer: Overstepping proper limits; arrogant

Presumptuous means failing to observe the limits of what is permitted; arrogantly bold.

Question 66: The word 'prudent' most nearly means:

Being extremely generous
Moving at high speed
Acting recklessly without consideration
Showing careful judgment and wisdom (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Showing careful judgment and wisdom

Prudent means acting with or showing care and thought for the future, exercising good judgment and common sense in practical matters.

Question 67: Fortunately, they had an a͟u͟x͟i͟l͟i͟a͟r͟y͟ police force

experienced
armed
backup (Correct answer)
standard

Correct answer: backup

"Auxiliary" means providing supplementary or additional help and support. In the context of a police force, an auxiliary force serves as a backup or additional resource to the main force, providing extra assistance when needed. Thus, "backup" is the most fitting synonym.

Question 68: The word MEAGER most nearly means:

Scanty or inadequate (Correct answer)
Excessive
Flavorful
Plentiful

Correct answer: Scanty or inadequate

Meager means lacking in quantity or quality; insufficient.

Question 69: When skimming a long passage on the AFQT for key information, where should you look FIRST?

Any words that appear in italics or quotation marks
The first and last sentences of each paragraph (Correct answer)
The longest paragraph in the passage
The middle sentences of each paragraph

Correct answer: The first and last sentences of each paragraph

Topic sentences (first) and concluding sentences (last) typically carry the paragraph's main idea and summary.

Question 70: If 5 soldiers can dig a trench in 6 hours, how many hours would 10 soldiers take to dig the same trench?

4
5
3 (Correct answer)
2

Correct answer: 3

Doubling the workers halves the time: 6 ÷ 2 = 3 hours.

Question 71: If a test-taker scores in AFQT Category I, what percentile range did they achieve?

93–98
65–92
93–99 (Correct answer)
50–64

Correct answer: 93–99

AFQT Category I covers scores from 93 to 99, representing the top performers against the national reference group.

Question 72: F͟a͟w͟n͟ most nearly means:

hymn
praise (Correct answer)
censure
neglect

Correct answer: praise

To "fawn" means to give a cringing display of flattery and subservience, often in an attempt to gain favor. This behavior is essentially an excessive and often insincere form of praise or adulation. Therefore, "praise" is the closest meaning.

Question 73: Read the passage and identify the author's purpose: "Servicemembers who maintain physical fitness not only perform better in the field but also recover from injury faster and report higher morale. Units with mandatory PT schedules consistently outperform those without." The author's primary purpose is to:

Inform readers about injury statistics
Describe the history of physical training in the Army
Persuade readers that mandatory PT benefits military units (Correct answer)
Entertain readers with military anecdotes

Correct answer: Persuade readers that mandatory PT benefits military units

The passage argues that mandatory PT leads to better performance and morale, which is a persuasive purpose.

Question 74: A unit's fuel budget is $12,600. Fuel costs $4.20 per gallon. How many gallons can they purchase?

3,000 (Correct answer)
2,520
3,200
2,800

Correct answer: 3,000

$12,600 ÷ $4.20 = 3,000 gallons.

Question 75: A plane takes off from New York with 72 of the 90 seats occupied. What percentage of seats are not occupied?

24%
22%
20% (Correct answer)
26%

Correct answer: 20%

First, determine the number of unoccupied seats by subtracting the occupied seats from the total seats: 90 - 72 = 18 seats. To find the percentage of unoccupied seats, divide the number of unoccupied seats by the total number of seats and multiply by 100. So, (18 / 90) * 100% = 0.20 * 100% = 20%.

Question 76: What does "protocol" most nearly mean?

A communication device
A type of weapon
The official procedure or system of rules governing affairs (Correct answer)
A military rank

Correct answer: The official procedure or system of rules governing affairs

Protocol refers to the official and proper way of doing things according to established rules and customs.

Question 77: The word OBSTINATE most nearly means:

Stubborn (Correct answer)
Weak
Flexible
Generous

Correct answer: Stubborn

Obstinate means stubbornly refusing to change one's opinion or chosen course of action.

Question 78: In the context of reading comprehension, what does 'context clues' mean?

Words and phrases surrounding an unfamiliar term that help determine its meaning (Correct answer)
The table of contents of a book
The title and author information
Footnotes at the bottom of the page

Correct answer: Words and phrases surrounding an unfamiliar term that help determine its meaning

Context clues are the words, phrases, and sentences surrounding an unknown word that provide hints about its meaning through definitions, examples, synonyms, antonyms, or general sense of the passage.

Question 79: According to the passage, which one of the following statements is most accurate?

Diastolic pressure measures the pressure of the blood in the arteries when the heart is contracting.
Your blood pressure is determined by dividing the systolic number by the diastolic number.
Pulse pressure is another term for blood pressure.
The blood in the arteries is at its lowest pressure during retraction. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The blood in the arteries is at its lowest pressure during retraction.

This statement accurately describes diastolic pressure. "Retraction" in this context refers to the diastolic phase, when the heart relaxes between beats and refills with blood. During this relaxation phase, the pressure in the arteries is at its lowest point, which is what the diastolic blood pressure measurement reflects.

Question 80: The word LETHARGIC most nearly means:

Sluggish and lacking energy (Correct answer)
Alert
Energetic
Nervous

Correct answer: Sluggish and lacking energy

Lethargic means affected by lethargy; sluggish and apathetic.

Question 81: After the strawberries, lemon juice, and pectin begin to boil, you should

scoop the jam into jars
remove the pan from the heat
add the sugar (Correct answer)
process the jam in the canner

Correct answer: add the sugar

In most jam-making recipes, after the fruit and pectin mixture comes to a rolling boil, sugar is added next. The sugar is crucial for the jam's setting and preservation, and it's typically introduced at this stage to dissolve properly and reach the gelling point. This sequence is standard for achieving the correct jam consistency.

Question 82: The word AMBIGUOUS most nearly means:

Direct
Clear
Certain
Having more than one meaning; unclear (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Having more than one meaning; unclear

Ambiguous means open to more than one interpretation; not having one obvious meaning.

Question 83: Tara earns twice as much per hour as Kayte. Kayte earns $3 more per hour than Austin. As a group, they earn $41 pr hour. What is Austin's hourly wage?

$9.50
$8.00 (Correct answer)
$8.50
$8.75

Correct answer: $8.00

Let Austin's hourly wage be 'A'. Kayte earns $3 more than Austin, so her wage is A + 3. Tara earns twice as much as Kayte, so her wage is 2 * (A + 3) = 2A + 6. The sum of their wages is $41, so A + (A + 3) + (2A + 6) = 41. Combining like terms gives 4A + 9 = 41. Subtracting 9 from both sides yields 4A = 32, so Austin's hourly wage (A) is $8.00.

Question 84: The word GRIEVOUS most nearly means:

Joyful
Minor
Amusing
Very severe or serious (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Very severe or serious

Grievous means very severe or serious, causing great suffering or sorrow.

Question 85: A passage concludes: "In summary, early intervention, consistent follow-up, and command support are the three pillars of an effective combat stress program." This concluding sentence primarily serves to:

Provide a specific statistic about stress programs
Restate and summarize the passage's main points (Correct answer)
Contradict earlier information in the passage
Introduce a new argument about combat stress

Correct answer: Restate and summarize the passage's main points

Summary sentences restate the main points covered in the passage and signal the conclusion.

Question 86: Beyond basic enlistment eligibility, how does a higher AFQT score benefit a recruit?

It improves access to enlistment bonuses, job selection, and training opportunities (Correct answer)
It automatically qualifies them for officer commissioning programs
It exempts them from completing basic training
It determines their pay grade directly at enlistment

Correct answer: It improves access to enlistment bonuses, job selection, and training opportunities

A higher AFQT score expands the range of available Military Occupational Specialties (MOS/ratings), enlistment bonuses, and advanced training programs a recruit can qualify for.

Question 87: Evaluate: 4! ÷ 2!

6
12 (Correct answer)
24
4

Correct answer: 12

4! = 24 and 2! = 2, so 24 ÷ 2 = 12.

Question 88: Which AFQT category is the military legally prohibited from enlisting?

Category II
Category IIIB
Category V (Correct answer)
Category IV

Correct answer: Category V

Federal law (10 U.S.C.) prohibits the military from enlisting individuals who score in Category V (AFQT scores 1–9) because they are statistically very likely to fail training.

Question 89: The word FORTIFY most nearly means:

Abandon
Strengthen or secure (Correct answer)
Destroy
Weaken

Correct answer: Strengthen or secure

Fortify means to make stronger or more resistant against attack.

Question 90: The word EXERT most nearly means:

Surrender
Apply or use effort (Correct answer)
Withdraw
Relax

Correct answer: Apply or use effort

Exert means to apply or bring to bear a force, influence, or quality.

Question 91: A reader encounters a paragraph that begins with a bold claim and ends with statistics. What is the most likely structure of this paragraph?

Chronological order
Claim supported by evidence (Correct answer)
Question followed by an unanswered problem
Cause and effect leading to a conclusion

Correct answer: Claim supported by evidence

A bold opening claim followed by supporting statistics is a classic claim-and-evidence structure.

Question 92: The word VIGILANT most nearly means:

Aggressive
Watchful (Correct answer)
Careless
Timid

Correct answer: Watchful

Vigilant means keeping careful watch for possible danger or difficulties.

Question 93: Word: Cautious What does "cautious" most nearly mean?

Reckless
Quick
Careful (Correct answer)
Brave

Correct answer: Careful

"Cautious" means being careful to avoid potential dangers or mistakes. "Careful" is the most direct synonym, as it describes the act of taking precautions and being attentive. "Reckless" is an antonym, and "brave" or "quick" do not capture the primary meaning.

Question 94: The word DILIGENT most nearly means:

Lazy
Dishonest
Hardworking and careful (Correct answer)
Careless

Correct answer: Hardworking and careful

Diligent means having or showing care and conscientiousness in one's work or duties.

Question 95: A repair crew fixes equipment at a rate of 6 items per day. How many days to repair 54 items if a second crew joins after 3 days, also fixing 6 items per day?

8 days
6 days
9 days
7 days (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 7 days

First 3 days: 1 crew × 6 × 3 = 18 items; remaining = 36; with 2 crews at 12/day: 36 ÷ 12 = 3 more days; total = 6 days.

Question 96: The word 'austere' most nearly means:

Friendly and welcoming
Lavish and extravagant
Colorful and decorated
Severe in manner or appearance; having no comforts or luxuries (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Severe in manner or appearance; having no comforts or luxuries

Austere describes conditions that are harsh, bare, and without luxury or comfort. Military environments are often described as austere when basic amenities are limited.

Question 97: Which technique helps identify the main idea when a paragraph lacks a clear topic sentence? "Recruits wake at 0500. They run five miles before breakfast. Afternoons include strength training. Evenings involve tactical drills." The main idea is:

Tactical drills occur only in the evenings
Basic training follows a demanding daily routine (Correct answer)
Morning runs are the hardest part of training
Recruits dislike the training schedule

Correct answer: Basic training follows a demanding daily routine

When no single sentence states the main idea, summarize what all details have in common — here, a rigorous daily schedule.

Question 98: If 3 trucks carry 2.5 tons each, what is the total cargo weight?

6 tons
7.5 tons (Correct answer)
8 tons
5 tons

Correct answer: 7.5 tons

Total = 3 × 2.5 = 7.5 tons.

Question 99: The word MAGNITUDE most nearly means:

Color
Smallness
Great size or extent (Correct answer)
Distance

Correct answer: Great size or extent

Magnitude refers to the great size or importance of something.

Question 100: A base fence requires posts every 8 feet. If the perimeter of the base is 640 feet, how many posts are needed?

80 (Correct answer)
78
72
84

Correct answer: 80

640 ÷ 8 = 80 posts.

Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT)

The AFQT is a component of the ASVAB that determines an applicant's eligibility for enlistment in the U.S. Armed Forces.

100

Questions

48 min

Time Limit

To Pass

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