Preparing for the Airman Knowledge Test (AKT) [also known as “writtens”] can be confusing at first, but this guide is planned to make your journey through taking your first written to last, easy. While attending ATP you will be expected to take six writtens:
- Private Pilot Airplane (PAR),
- Instrument Rating Airplane (IRA),
- Commercial Pilot Airplane (CAX),
- Fundamentals of Instructing (FOI),
- Flight Instructor Airplane (FIA), and
- Flight Instructor Instrument Airplane (FII).
Embarking on a career in the airlines often begins with completing the Airline Transport Pilot Multiengine Airplane (ATM) exam. Each test you undertake comes with its own set of requirements: from the number of questions and age criteria to allotted time and passing score. In the aviation community, there’s an ongoing discussion about the best approach to these exams. Some opt for a quick “check-the-box” strategy, relying on rote memorization. Others prioritize deep understanding of the material.
It’s important to note that there’s ample time to truly grasp the content. Striving for the highest score possible on your written exam should be your aim, and the key lies in effective study techniques. This guide aims to equip you with the tools and strategies needed to achieve your best score, setting you on the path to success in your airline career.
Did you know: By completing the PAR, IRA and CAX before beginning the Airline Career Pilot Program you can get reimbursed for a 1-year subscription to ForeFlight Basic.
After conducting a simple Google search of “Studying for Airman Knowledge Test” on the day of writing this guide, there was a return of 1.11 million hits on Google. On ATP’s web page titled Preparing for Your Airline Career Pilot Program, there is an updated informative on how to prepare for your PAR exam. For those that feel the need to supplement the test prep, once enrolled into the ACPP, ATP provides you access to the ATP Orientation modules which will give background information on the material you are studying.
Before taking a test, there are some prerequisites that must be met under the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 61). Things such as English language proficiency involving ability to read, write, speak and understand are required. You must receive a one-time endorsement from an authorized instructor stating that you are prepared to take the exam. Like the above paragraph stated, there are minimum age requirements; for example, you must be at least 15 years of age to take the PAR test. Every test has its own age requirement, it should be important to review the FAA Airman Knowledge Test Matrix for specifics of your exam.
The following tests that require an endorsement from an authorized instructor:
- Private Pilot Airplane (PAR),
- Instrument Rating Airplane (IRA), and
- Commercial Pilot Airplane (CAX).
The following tests that do not require an endorsement:
- Fundamentals of Instructing (FOI),
- Flight Instructor Airplane (FIA), and
- Flight Instructor Instrument Airplane (FII).
Before tackling any written test, it’s essential to understand how it’s structured. Each exam is divided into specific knowledge areas, covering the topics you’ll be assessed on. To give you a clearer picture, here’s a snapshot from the Private Pilot - Airplane ACS, outlining the percentage breakdown of questions you can expect. Ensuring you have the correct ACS (Airman Certification Standards) for your knowledge test is crucial. Be sure it’s the most current version, as this will directly apply to your upcoming exam, setting you on the right track for success.
Source: FAA PAR ACS, 2018
Discovering the most effective study approach often hinges on your unique cognitive abilities. You might not thrive as a traditional “bookworm” and prefer visual aids like videos or face-to-face instruction. Alternatively, audiobooks could be your go-to, perfect for learning while strolling in the evening or relaxing by the pool with headphones on. Ultimately, the key to successful studying lies in finding what works best for you. Ensure that the method you select aligns with your strengths and learning style, promising the greatest results in the long run. Craft a personalized game plan for studying and gearing up for exams, keeping the following considerations in mind:
- Determine how much time you have to study each day
- How long will it take you to study for the test of your choice
- Set a deadline date for the test that provides enough time
- Be discipline in studying and use your time efficiently
Did you know: There were around 40,000 PAR tests taken in 2022, all Airman Knowledge Test results are recorded as a sample and published on the FAA website for a National Average. To find the latest results of all AKT’s, visit the website: Airmen Knowledge Test Statistics | Federal Aviation Administration.
When you arrive on test day, it’s crucial to have the right documents and materials in hand. To help you navigate this, we’ve outlined what’s allowed and what’s not in the table below. At the testing center, you’ll find essentials like #2 pencils, scratch paper, and a 10-key calculator provided for you. Additionally, they may offer a few extra items to support your testing experience. For those aiming for top performance, we recommend going beyond the basics. Getting familiar with a whiz-wheel and acquainting yourself with an E6B calculator can significantly enhance your preparedness and potentially boost your results. So, consider adding these tools to your study arsenal for an extra edge on test day.
After completing the PAR, ATP and Mentors recommend using Sheppard Air. Sheppard Air utilizes the memorization method. You will learn the material later in your study/training. Once you have acquired the Sheppard Air software, they have a specific study strategy that should be followed to achieve the best score.
We recommend completing the writtens in the following order. It is by no means necessary to complete any of the writtens before starting the program, but any that you can do will be a help to you. We recommend completing the tests in the following order.
- PAR
- IRA & FII,same day (if you feel adventurous, take the IGI as well - it will one day serve you to achieve your CFI Gold Seal)
- CAX
- FIA
- FOI
We hope this guide helps you in any way to break the confusion of how to study for your upcoming written tests. As always, we wish you the best of luck.
