CKD Cheat Sheet 2026

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

1. Why is client feedback important during the construction project? → It helps adjust the project as needed and improves outcomes
2. Which cabinet construction style features a solid wood frame attached to the front of the cabinet box? → Face-frame
3. What is the purpose of building codes in construction? → To ensure safety and regulatory compliance
4. A 'pull-out trash cabinet' is typically placed in which zone of the kitchen work triangle for maximum efficiency? → Near the sink/prep area
5. What is the standard base cabinet height used in most U.S. kitchen designs before the countertop is installed? → 34.5 inches
6. What is the primary disadvantage of a recirculating (ductless) range hood compared to a ducted hood? → Cannot remove heat and moisture from the kitchen
7. Which storage accessory is most effective for improving accessibility in a blind corner base cabinet? → Lazy Susan
8. Why is it important to adhere to construction codes? → It ensures buildings are safe, functional, and durable
9. What does 'fire resistance rating' in construction refer to? → The time a material can resist fire before failing
10. What is the difference between a load-bearing and non-load-bearing wall? → Non-load-bearing walls are used to separate rooms.
11. Why is the building code important in construction? → It ensures the building meets safety and health standards
12. A dishwasher is most efficiently placed in what location relative to the sink? → Adjacent to the sink on either side
13. Why is communication important in project coordination? → It improves client satisfaction and project outcomes
14. What type of kitchen sink mount is installed from below the countertop so no rim is visible on the surface? → Undermount
15. According to NKBA guidelines, what is the recommended landing space next to or above a microwave oven? → 15 inches
16. What are the three primary layers of lighting used in kitchen design? → Ambient, task, and accent
17. In kitchen electrical planning, what defines a 'dedicated circuit'? → A circuit that serves only one specific appliance or area
18. Which drawer slide type is concealed beneath the drawer box and typically includes soft-close functionality? → Undermount ball-bearing slides
19. According to NKBA workflow guidelines, within what distance of the sink should a dishwasher ideally be placed? → 36 inches
20. What is the standard electrical circuit requirement for a typical electric range or oven in the U.S.? → 50-amp, 240-volt circuit
21. Which lighting control technology allows kitchen lighting scenes to be programmed and automatically adjusted based on time of day or occupancy? → Smart home / programmable dimmer system
22. What personal hygiene standard applies to personal hygiene? → Strict handwashing, proper attire, illness reporting, and wound covering are mandatory
23. Which dishwasher feature allows the appliance to be concealed behind a custom cabinet panel for a fully integrated look? → Panel-ready design
24. Which oven feature allows precise low-temperature cooking by circulating heated air with a fan? → Convection
25. What is the first step in designing a kitchen layout? → Understand the client's needs and functional requirements
26. On which side of the refrigerator does NKBA specify the minimum 15-inch landing space should be located? → Handle (latch) side
27. What ventilation system type recirculates air through filters back into the kitchen rather than exhausting air to the outside? → Ductless (recirculating) range hood
28. What is the primary advantage of frameless (full-access) cabinets over face-frame cabinets? → Greater interior accessibility and wider drawer openings
29. What temperature control principle is most critical in personal hygiene? → Maintain proper temperatures throughout receiving, storage, preparation, and service
30. What is the standard recommended clearance between the countertop surface and the bottom of upper cabinets? → 18 inches