CPI Study Guide 2026
Everything you need to pass the CPI 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.
📋 CPI Exam Format at a Glance
📚 CPI Topics to Study (69)
✍️ Sample CPI Questions & Answers
1. In cellular network investigations, a tower dump request asks a carrier for:
A tower dump provides investigators with a list of all IMSIs/IMEIs that registered with a specific cell tower during a specified period.
2. In a meta-analysis, what does a funnel plot asymmetry most likely suggest?
Funnel plot asymmetry suggests that small studies with unfavorable results may not have been published, indicating publication bias.
3. An IRB requests additional clarification on a protocol amendment. What is the PI's most appropriate first step?
The PI should respond in writing to each IRB concern directly and specifically to facilitate timely resolution.
4. When drafting a research protocol for IRB submission, which section must explicitly describe procedures to minimize risk to participants?
The risk-benefit analysis section must explicitly outline procedures to minimize participant risk and demonstrate that potential benefits outweigh those risks.
5. What ethical issue arises when an investigator accepts payment from both the plaintiff and defendant in the same litigation matter?
Representing both adverse parties in litigation creates an irreconcilable conflict that prevents the investigator from fulfilling the duty of loyalty to either.
6. Which best describes the PI's responsibility when delegating tasks to sub-investigators?
FDA regulations require a delegation log and specify that the PI retains ultimate responsibility for the conduct of the study regardless of delegation.