CPG Cheat Sheet 2026

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

1. The Wilson Cycle in plate tectonics describes: → The repeated opening and closing of ocean basins
2. The San Andreas Fault in California is best classified as what type of fault? → Right-lateral strike-slip fault
3. Which container type is generally right for groundwater samples analyzed for semivolatile organic compounds? → Amber glass bottle with a PTFE-lined cap
4. How does urbanization impact groundwater recharge? → Decreases infiltration and recharge
5. An aquifer has K = 10 m/day, a hydraulic gradient of 0.01, and an effective porosity of 0.25. What is the average linear (seepage) velocity? → 0.4 m/day
6. What is the standard temperature for cooler storage of most environmental water and soil samples during shipment? → At or below 6°C without freezing
7. Which quality is MOST important for professionals conducting data analysis & statistical methods in Certified Professional Geologist? → Objectivity and attention to detail
8. Groundwater samples collected for dissolved metals analysis should typically be handled how in the field? → Filtered through a 0.45-micron filter and preserved with nitric acid to pH below 2
9. What factor MOST affects the validity of data analysis & statistical methods outcomes in Certified Professional Geologist? → The consistency and appropriateness of assessment methods used
10. Why are detailed field notes important in geological mapping? → They record essential data for mapping
11. What does porphyritic texture in igneous rocks indicate? → Two-stage cooling
12. Which structural feature places older rocks stratigraphically above younger rocks? → A thrust fault
13. What test is commonly used to determine soil shear strength? → Direct shear test
14. Which practice BEST ensures safe instrumentation & calibration operation in Certified Professional Geologist? → Pre-use inspection combined with proper training and adherence to procedures
15. What is the FIRST step in conducting a thorough data analysis & statistical methods in Certified Professional Geologist? → Defining clear assessment criteria and objectives
16. Which process is a common cause of groundwater contamination? → Leaching of pollutants
17. What is the PRIMARY objective of specimen collection & handling within the Certified Professional Geologist profession? → To ensure quality outcomes through standardized practices and continuous improvement
18. How does structural geology aid geologic mapping? → Interprets deformation structures
19. Which element is CRITICAL for maintaining proficiency in research methodology & design within Certified Professional Geologist? → Regular practice with ongoing professional development and skill updates
20. Which competency is MOST essential for professionals working in specimen collection & handling in Certified Professional Geologist? → Critical thinking combined with practical application of knowledge
21. For a composite soil sample, which analysis is generally NOT appropriate? → Volatile organic compounds
22. What is the MOST effective way to stay current with developments in specimen collection & handling for Certified Professional Geologist? → Participating in professional development, industry events, and peer collaboration
23. What is the Mohs scale used for? → Hardness ranking
24. Foliation in metamorphic rocks is primarily created by: → Directed (non-hydrostatic) stress during metamorphism
25. Geologist licensing in the United States is primarily governed by: → Individual state licensing laws, with no overarching federal statute
26. The AIPG requires CPG holders to complete how many Continuing Education Units (CEUs) per renewal cycle? → 12 CEUs per 3-year renewal cycle
27. What is the typical preservative for water samples analyzed for VOCs by EPA Method 8260? → Hydrochloric acid to pH below 2 and cooling
28. What documentation is ESSENTIAL for instrumentation & calibration management in Certified Professional Geologist? → Maintenance logs, calibration records, and incident reports
29. Which characteristic BEST describes a successful quality assurance & control culture in Certified Professional Geologist? → Continuous learning where all team members actively seek improvement
30. In Certified Professional Geologist, what is the MOST appropriate response when a potential compliance violation is discovered? → Report it immediately through established channels and document findings