Life Coaching Cheat Sheet 2026
The 30 highest-yield Life Coaching facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.
- How does a strengths-based coaching approach differ from a deficit-based approach? → It focuses on identifying and amplifying what already works well in the client
- Attachment theory, which underpins much of relationship coaching, was primarily developed by: → John Bowlby and Mary Ainsworth
- When a client first presents their problem, they come up with various fresh suggestions for how to handle it. What ought should the coach do? → Integrate the client’s ideas with the coaches ideas to co-create solutions
- In the GROW model, what does the 'W' stand for? → Will/Way Forward
- Which of the following questions helps a client identify potential obstacles to their goal? → What might get in the way, and how could you handle it?
- A communication barrier in which a listener assumes they already know what the speaker will say before they finish is called: → Premature conclusion
- Which tool is often used in coaching to help clients prioritize goals when they have many competing objectives? → The Wheel of Life
- Which of the following is a sign that a client's goal may need to be revised? → The client consistently avoids the action steps and feels drained by the goal
- People frequently link problems with dreams. → False
- What does ICF stand for? → International Coaching Federation
- Which framework is commonly used in life coaching to help clients set effective goals? → SMART goals
- Which of the following is an example of passive communication? → Deferring to others' preferences even when you have a strong opinion of your own
- In life coaching, what is the purpose of an 'action plan'? → To outline specific steps the client will take to achieve their goals
- A therapist is a life coach. → False
- One of the greatest advancements of the late _____ _____ was psychoanalysis, which is typically attributed to Sigmund Freud's work. → Nineteenth century
- What kind of boundary creates a wall so that no one can enter your private or personal space? → Physical
- A 'repair attempt' in relationship coaching refers to: → Any statement or action intended to de-escalate tension during conflict
- 'Mirroring' as a coaching communication technique refers to: → Subtly reflecting back the client's words, tone, or body language to build rapport
- What does 'chunking down' mean in the context of goal planning? → Breaking a large goal into smaller, manageable sub-tasks
- What is a 'micro-goal' and why is it used in life coaching? → A very small, immediate action step that builds confidence and momentum
- What is 'values alignment' in career coaching? → Helping the client identify their core values and find a career path that honors them
- When helping a client establish healthier personal boundaries, a life coach should FIRST: → Help the client identify the core values that will guide their boundaries
- What is 'ecological goal setting' in life coaching? → Ensuring a goal fits harmoniously with all areas of the client's life
- 'Triangulation' in relationship dynamics refers to: → Involving a third party to manage or avoid direct communication between two people
- Which organization is the most widely recognized credentialing body for professional life coaches? → International Coaching Federation (ICF)
- What is a 'stretch goal' in the context of life coaching? → A goal slightly beyond the client's current comfort zone that promotes growth
- What does 'coaching presence' mean according to the ICF competency framework? → The coach's ability to be fully conscious, flexible, and grounded during sessions
- What is the purpose of a 'milestone' in a coaching action plan? → To identify intermediate achievements that signal progress toward the main goal
- Nonverbal communication (body language, tone, facial expressions) is estimated to account for approximately what percentage of overall communication? → 55-65%
- In order to show the client how to be forceful, it is appropriate for the coach to control the dialogue during the session. → False
Turn these facts into recall: