Anatomy and Physiology Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield Anatomy and Physiology facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. What is the function of the mitral (bicuspid) valve? → Prevents backflow from the left ventricle into the left atrium
2. What ethical standard governs professional standards and ethics practice? → Adherence to the profession's code of ethics and applicable laws and regulations
3. What is the name of the cartilage found at the ends of long bones that cushions joints? → Articular cartilage
4. Which organ is the primary site for T-cell maturation? → Thymus
5. What is the term for the fibrous membrane covering the outer surface of most bones? → Periosteum
6. What is the foundational principle of continuing education requirements in the Anatomy and Physiology field? → Maintaining competence, integrity, and service to stakeholders
7. Which structure connects the two bones of a synovial joint and provides stability? → Ligament
8. Which of the following body planes divides the body into left and right halves? → Sagittal plane
9. The refractory period of cardiac muscle is important because it prevents: → Tetanic (sustained) contractions that would stop effective pumping
10. Which part of a neuron receives incoming signals from other neurons? → Dendrites
11. What is the name of the region in the spinal cord where sensory neurons synapse with interneurons? → Dorsal horn
12. How should challenges in industry best practices be addressed? → Apply systematic problem-solving, seek expert guidance when needed, and document decisions
13. What is the foundational principle of applied methods and techniques in the Anatomy and Physiology field? → Maintaining competence, integrity, and service to stakeholders
14. Which neurotransmitter is primarily responsible for muscle activation at the neuromuscular junction? → Acetylcholine
15. What ethical standard governs core concepts and principles practice? → Adherence to the profession's code of ethics and applicable laws and regulations
16. What ethical standard governs applied methods and techniques practice? → Adherence to the profession's code of ethics and applicable laws and regulations
17. What is the primary function of mitochondria in cells? → Energy production
18. Vasoconstriction refers to: → Narrowing of blood vessel lumens
19. Which division of the autonomic nervous system prepares the body for 'fight or flight' responses? → Sympathetic
20. Which cells are responsible for bone formation? → Osteoblasts
21. What is homeostasis? → The ability of the body to maintain a stable internal environment
22. What structure in the brainstem controls vital functions like heart rate, breathing, and blood pressure? → Medulla oblongata
23. What is the foundational principle of assessment and evaluation in the Anatomy and Physiology field? → Maintaining competence, integrity, and service to stakeholders
24. Which feedback mechanism amplifies a physiological change rather than reversing it? → Positive feedback
25. The Frank-Starling law of the heart states that: → The heart contracts more forcefully as ventricular filling (preload) increases
26. What is the main function of the lymphatic system? → Drain excess interstitial fluid and provide immunity
27. How should challenges in communication and documentation be addressed? → Apply systematic problem-solving, seek expert guidance when needed, and document decisions
28. Which bone is the longest and strongest in the human body? → Femur
29. What is the term for the connective tissue sheath surrounding an individual muscle fascicle? → Perimysium
30. What is the term for the gap between two neurons at a synapse? → Synaptic cleft