STCW Cheat Sheet 2026

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

1. Which approach best demonstrates mastery of firefighting techniques in STCW practice? → Applying principles to novel situations with sound judgment
2. The Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan (SEEMP) is required under which MARPOL annex? → Annex VI
3. Which personal protective equipment (PPE) principle applies to ALL STCW certified professionals regardless of their specific role? → PPE must be properly fitted, maintained, and replaced as needed
4. Which type of foam is specifically designed for use on polar solvent (alcohol-type) fires such as acetone or ethanol? → AR-AFFF (Alcohol-Resistant AFFF)
5. When entering a confined space suspected to contain a toxic atmosphere, what must be done before entry? → Test the atmosphere and obtain a valid permit to work
6. How do maintenance schedules affect ship operations? → They ensure that machinery is operating efficiently and minimize unplanned downtime
7. Which landmark is used to position hands correctly for chest compressions on an adult? → Center of the chest on the lower half of the sternum
8. In the GMDSS, what does the term 'SAR' stand for? → Search and Rescue
9. What is the maximum time a person can typically survive in 10°C (50°F) water without a survival suit? → 1 to 3 hours
10. What is the most important professional competency for STCW certification in watchkeeping duties? → Deep knowledge combined with practical application skills
11. Which regulation governs the disposal of garbage from ships at sea? → MARPOL Annex V
12. Which of the following best describes the 'cold shock' response when a person enters very cold water? → Uncontrollable gasping and hyperventilation that can cause drowning within seconds
13. In STCW certification, what does redundancy in system design primarily provide? → Fault tolerance and high availability
14. What does 'watchkeeping' on VHF Channel 16 require of a vessel underway? → Continuously monitoring Channel 16 while at sea
15. What is the primary purpose of a ship's stability booklet? → To provide loading and stability data for the vessel
16. What is the purpose of a soot blower on a marine boiler? → To blow steam or air across fire-side tube surfaces to remove soot and ash deposits
17. What document must accompany a shipment of dangerous goods at sea? → A Dangerous Goods Declaration completed by the shipper
18. Which STCW table specifies the minimum standards of competence for proficiency in survival craft and rescue boats other than fast rescue boats? → Table A-VI/2-1
19. What is the MOST effective way for new STCW professionals to build competency in their field? → Combining formal education, mentored practice, and ongoing professional development
20. In a four-stroke diesel engine, during which stroke does combustion occur? → Power (expansion) stroke
21. Why is waste management crucial in shipboard operations? → To properly store and dispose of waste, ensuring environmental safety and crew health
22. A 'backdraft' explosion occurs when: → Fresh oxygen is suddenly introduced into a smoldering, oxygen-depleted fire compartment
23. What is the significance of a ship's 'A-class' fire division? → It is constructed of steel and can withstand fire for 60 minutes without flame passage
24. What role does collaboration play in personal survival for STCW professionals? → It enhances outcomes through diverse perspectives and shared expertise
25. What does STCW require regarding the handover of a navigational watch? → The relieving officer must be fully briefed on the vessel's situation before taking over
26. What action should the OOW take when the vessel enters a declared Emission Control Area (ECA)? → Switch fuel to low-sulfur compliant fuel as required by MARPOL Annex VI
27. Which signal indicates 'Man Overboard' on a ship's whistle? → Three short blasts
28. Under ISM Code requirements, what must a company establish regarding non-conformities? → Procedures to identify, document, analyze, and correct non-conformities
29. What is the primary consideration when implementing changes to communication systems? → Impact assessment and change management
30. A vessel in Sea Area A2 must carry which mandatory GMDSS equipment in addition to Sea Area A1 equipment? → MF DSC radio capable of transmitting on 2187.5 kHz