CPC Study Guide 2026

Everything you need to pass the CPC exam in one place: the exam format, every topic to study, real practice questions with explanations, flashcards, and full-length practice tests. Free, no sign-up needed.

📋 CPC Exam Format at a Glance

100

Questions

120 min

Time Limit

70.00%

Passing Score

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📚 CPC Topics to Study (22)

Client Assessment & Progress Evaluation · 9 cards Coaching Techniques & Communication Skills · 9 cards Ethics, Boundaries & Professional Conduct · 9 cards Goal Setting & Motivation Strategies · 9 cards Wellness & Holistic Life Coaching · 7 cards Wellness & Holistic Life Coaching · 7 cards Wellness & Holistic Life Coaching · 7 cards CPC Career & Life Transition Coaching · 6 cards CPC Career & Life Transition Coaching · 6 cards CPC Career & Life Transition Coaching · 6 cards CPC Life Coaching Business & Practice Management · 6 cards CPC Life Coaching Business & Practice Management · 6 cards CPC Life Coaching Business & Practice Management · 6 cards CPC Mindset & Belief Systems Transformation · 6 cards CPC Mindset & Belief Systems Transformation · 6 cards CPC Mindset & Belief Systems Transformation · 6 cards CPC Neuroscience & Positive Psychology in Coaching · 6 cards CPC Neuroscience & Positive Psychology in Coaching · 6 cards CPC Neuroscience & Positive Psychology in Coaching · 6 cards CPC Relationship & Emotional Intelligence Coaching · 6 cards CPC Relationship & Emotional Intelligence Coaching · 6 cards CPC Relationship & Emotional Intelligence Coaching · 6 cards

✍️ Sample CPC Questions & Answers

1. What does 'rupture and repair' mean in the context of coaching relationships and client relationship coaching?

✓ The inevitable moments of disconnection in any relationship and the process of restoring trust and connection afterward

Research shows that relationships are strengthened not by avoiding conflict but by successfully repairing ruptures; coaches model this and help clients develop repair skills.

2. Why is feedback important in coaching sessions?

✓ It supports learning and growth

Feedback in coaching is a constructive tool used to provide clients with objective observations and insights about their actions, progress, and areas for development. It is crucial for supporting learning, reinforcing positive behaviors, and guiding clients toward achieving their goals. This process fosters continuous growth and self-awareness.

3. What is the 'inner critic' and how do coaches work with it?

✓ The internal voice that judges, criticizes, and undermines self-confidence, which coaches help clients recognize and manage

The inner critic is an internal narrative that often reflects internalized past criticism; coaches help clients externalize, examine, and reduce its power.

4. In the context of coaching, what is 'learned helplessness'?

✓ A conditioned belief that one's actions cannot influence outcomes, often blocking goal pursuit

Learned helplessness, identified by Seligman, occurs when people believe their efforts won't matter; coaches work to restore clients' sense of agency.

5. What is a 'retainer' model in a coaching business?

✓ A recurring monthly fee that grants clients a set number of sessions or ongoing access

A retainer model provides predictable recurring revenue for the coach and consistent access for the client over an agreed-upon period.

6. Which business structure is most commonly chosen by solo life coaches starting their practice in the US?

✓ Sole Proprietorship or Single-Member LLC

Sole proprietorships and single-member LLCs offer simplicity and liability protection, making them popular choices for solo coaching practices.

🎯 Free CPC Practice Tests

Client Assessment & Progress Evaluation · 9 questions Ethics, Boundaries & Professional Conduct · 9 questions Goal Setting & Motivation Strategies · 9 questions Coaching Techniques & Communication Skills · 9 questions Wellness & Holistic Life Coaching · 7 questions Wellness & Holistic Life Coaching · 7 questions Wellness & Holistic Life Coaching · 7 questions CPC Career & Life Transition Coaching · 6 questions CPC Neuroscience & Positive Psychology in Coaching · 6 questions CPC Life Coaching Business & Practice Management · 6 questions

📖 CPC Guides & Articles

Your CPC Study Path

1. Learn with Flashcards → 2. Drill Practice Tests → 3. Take the Full Exam Simulation

🃏 Flashcards (147)🏆 Exam Simulation