FBI Cheat Sheet 2026

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

1. How does professional liability insurance protect FBI practitioners? → Covering financial losses from claims of negligence or errors
2. What is the primary consideration when shooting while moving? → Focus on maintaining steady aim and proper trigger control.
3. How does professional liability insurance protect FBI practitioners? → Covering financial losses from claims of negligence or errors
4. During the FBI qualification course, how many rounds are typically fired at the 3-yard line? → 12 rounds
5. What is a needs assessment in FBI Surveillance & Intelligence practice? → Identifying gaps between current conditions and desired outcomes
6. How frequently must FBI Special Agents qualify with their duty weapon under standard policy? → Twice a year
7. What is evidence-based practice in FBI Investigation Procedures & Methods? → Integrating research evidence with expertise and client needs
8. Which stage of the FBI qualification course requires firing from behind a barricade or cover position? → 15-yard stage
9. What are consequences of non-compliance in FBI practice? → Fines, license revocation, legal liability, and reputation damage
10. What is the importance of continuing education for FBI professionals in Forensic Science & Analysis? → Maintaining current knowledge and adapting to industry changes
11. What is 'terminal ballistics'? → The study of a projectile's behavior upon striking a target
12. Which standard handgun cartridge did the FBI adopt in 2015, replacing the .40 S&W? → 9mm Luger (9x19mm)
13. What target is most commonly used in the FBI Firearms Qualification Course? → FBI QIT-99 target
14. Which FBI concept emphasizes scanning after a shooting to assess for additional threats? → Post-engagement scan and assess
15. What is the importance of continuing education for FBI professionals in Use of Force Policies? → Maintaining current knowledge and adapting to industry changes
16. What is peer review in FBI Investigation Procedures & Methods? → Quality evaluation by qualified colleagues for improvement
17. What role do standard operating procedures play in FBI Forensic Science & Analysis? → Ensuring consistency and quality through documented instructions
18. What is muzzle velocity? → The speed of the bullet as it exits the barrel
19. Which phenomenon causes people under extreme stress to perceive events as occurring in slow motion? → Tachypsychia
20. What is 'bullet drop' in external ballistics? → The downward deviation of a bullet's path caused by gravity
21. What physical symptom commonly affects fine grip and trigger control during high-stress encounters? → Increased sweating and hand tremor
22. What FBI-endorsed mental technique helps agents maintain performance under stress by rehearsing successful outcomes? → Positive visualization (mental rehearsal)
23. What is evidence-based practice in FBI Forensic Science & Analysis? → Integrating research evidence with expertise and client needs
24. Which of the following is essential to track during a fitness regimen for marksmen? → Performance in key exercises (e.g., endurance, strength).
25. What is the time limit for firing two rounds from the holster at 3 yards in the FBI qualification course? → 1.5 seconds
26. What is the maximum distance at which the FBI Firearms Qualification Course requires shooting a handgun? → 25 yards
27. What does 'caliber' refer to when describing a firearm cartridge? → The diameter of the bore measured in hundredths of an inch or millimeters
28. Which type of endurance training is essential for FBI certified marksmen? → Distance running
29. What does 'muzzle energy' measure in firearms ballistics? → The kinetic energy of the projectile as it exits the barrel, measured in foot-pounds
30. What role do standard operating procedures play in FBI Interview & Interrogation Techniques? → Ensuring consistency and quality through documented instructions