CPC Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CPC 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 purpose of employee performance management systems? → To improve employee performance and organizational success
2. What is the ADDIE model used for in training and development? → A systematic framework for designing and developing training programs
3. What is 'redeployment' in staffing agency operations? → Placing a worker in a new role at or after the end of their current assignment
4. What is the purpose of OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration)? → To ensure that workplaces are safe and free from health hazards
5. Which of the following is considered an ethical use of social media in recruiting? → Using publicly available professional profiles to identify potential candidates
6. Which of the following best describes the 'economic realities' test used by courts when applying FLSA coverage? → It assesses the degree to which the worker is economically dependent on the employer
7. Which IRS tax rule limits the amount of annual additions (employer + employee contributions) that can be made to a defined contribution plan like a 401(k)? → Section 415 limit
8. What is the purpose of a compensation system? → To attract, motivate, and retain employees
9. Which of the following correctly describes the 'ABC test' used in some states to classify workers? → Worker is an employee unless employer proves three conditions of independence
10. Which of the following is a key objective of performance management systems? → To assess and improve employee performance
11. An employer's total compensation package includes base pay, variable pay, and benefits. Which category would employer-paid life insurance premiums fall under? → Indirect compensation / benefits
12. A recruiter accepts a gift of significant value from a client after a successful placement. This creates a potential: → Conflict of interest that may compromise future objectivity
13. What is the purpose of a 'learning management system' (LMS)? → To administer, document, track, report, and deliver training programs
14. What does 'client retention rate' measure for a staffing firm? → The percentage of clients who continue using the firm's services over a defined period
15. Which type of assessment measures a candidate's ability to perform actual job tasks? → Work sample test
16. A personnel consultant who guarantees a client a hire will be 'perfect' is most likely violating which ethical principle? → Accuracy in representations and avoiding unrealistic promises
17. A CPC discovers mid-search that a preferred candidate has a material embellishment on their resume. The ethical action is to: → Disclose the finding to the client and withdraw the candidate
18. Which of the following best describes a 'right-to-work' state under the Taft-Hartley Act? → Employees cannot be required to join or pay dues to a union as a condition of employment
19. Which training delivery method is BEST suited for teaching soft skills like communication and leadership? → Role-playing and simulation exercises
20. Which federal law governs the portability, non-discrimination, and renewal requirements for group health plans and was a precursor to ACA? → HIPAA
21. Which workforce planning approach relies on manager input and estimates to forecast staffing needs? → Bottom-up forecasting
22. Which conflict resolution approach involves a neutral third party facilitating a discussion but allowing the involved parties to reach their own agreement? → Mediation
23. What does 'transfer of training' refer to? → The degree to which trainees apply learned knowledge and skills back on the job
24. An employee who is placed on suspension with pay while an investigation is conducted is experiencing: → A neutral administrative action to protect the investigation
25. Which form of harassment creates a hostile work environment even when it does not result in a tangible employment action such as demotion? → Hostile environment harassment
26. Kirkpatrick's Four-Level Training Evaluation Model measures training at which highest level? → Results (business impact)
27. The STAR method in behavioral interviewing stands for: → Situation, Task, Action, Result
28. Return on Investment (ROI) for training programs is calculated as: → (Benefits minus costs) divided by costs × 100
29. Which approach to employee development focuses on learning through job assignments, relationships, and formal education in a 70-20-10 model? → 70% experiential on the job, 20% social/relationship learning, 10% formal training
30. Which selection tool has consistently shown the HIGHEST predictive validity for job performance according to personnel research? → General cognitive ability tests combined with structured interviews