FDC Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield FDC 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 primary purpose of DNA evidence in court? → Scientifically reliable identification
2. When a FDC professional encounters an unexpected result during a procedure, the FIRST action should be to: → Stop, assess the situation, and determine whether to proceed or seek guidance
3. What is the PRIMARY purpose of maintaining a clear chain of communication in FDC settings? → To ensure accountability, prevent miscommunication, and facilitate timely information flow
4. When a FDC professional encounters an unexpected result during a procedure, the FIRST action should be to: → Stop, assess the situation, and determine whether to proceed or seek guidance
5. In Forensic DNA Certification practice, what is the CORRECT sequence when performing a technical procedure? → Plan, prepare, execute, verify, and document
6. Effective communication between Forensic DNA Certification professionals and stakeholders requires which essential element? → Adapting communication style to the audience while maintaining accuracy
7. What is the importance of calibration in forensic lab equipment? → Ensure reliable results
8. Under CODIS rules, who is authorized to receive the identity of a candidate match from NDIS? → Only the laboratory that submitted the forensic profile
9. What law protects genetic information from discrimination? → GINA
10. What is the PRIMARY ethical obligation of a certified Forensic DNA Certification professional regarding confidential information? → Protect it from unauthorized disclosure at all times
11. What documentation is essential when collecting evidence? → Date, time, collector, description
12. Which DNA profile index in CODIS contains profiles from unsolved crime scenes? → Forensic Index
13. Which federal law governs the collection, storage, and use of DNA profiles in the national CODIS database? → DNA Identification Act of 1994
14. What is electrophoresis used for in forensic analysis? → Separating DNA fragments
15. How should Forensic DNA Certification professionals handle procedures that have been updated or revised? → Review updates, complete required training, and implement revised procedures
16. What is the purpose of DNA quantitation in the lab? → Measure DNA amount
17. What is an administrative review in forensic DNA casework? → A review for completeness, consistency, and clerical accuracy of the case record
18. In Forensic DNA Certification practice, what is the CORRECT sequence when performing a technical procedure? → Plan, prepare, execute, verify, and document
19. How long should FDC professionals typically retain official documentation? → According to applicable regulatory requirements and organizational policies
20. What role do ethical guidelines play in DNA forensic work? → Set standards for professionalism
21. What is the BEST way for a Forensic DNA Certification professional to stay current with regulatory changes? → Monitor regulatory bodies, attend CE, and participate in professional associations
22. What is the PRIMARY purpose of maintaining a clear chain of communication in FDC settings? → To ensure accountability, prevent miscommunication, and facilitate timely information flow
23. What is the primary role of a technical review in a forensic DNA case? → To ensure that the data and interpretations are scientifically accurate and complete
24. Which federal standard defines the quality requirements that forensic DNA laboratories must follow to participate in CODIS? → FBI Quality Assurance Standards (QAS)
25. What is a validation study in the context of a forensic DNA laboratory? → A systematic process of testing a method to confirm it is fit for forensic purpose
26. What is the first step in forensic laboratory evidence processing? → Receiving and documenting evidence
27. What role does calibration play in maintaining technical accuracy for Forensic DNA Certification professionals? → It ensures instruments produce accurate, consistent results over time
28. Why should evidence be stored in breathable containers? → Prevent mold and degradation
29. Which approach is MOST important for FDC professionals when applying technical procedures? → Adhering to established protocols while adapting to specific conditions
30. Under the FBI Quality Assurance Standards, how often must forensic DNA analysts complete external proficiency testing? → Every six months