Avoid these
8 mistakes that cost points on the civics test
Key takeaways
- Seven questions ask for more than one answer. Give the full number.
- Practice out loud, because the test is spoken.
- Learn the four answers that change and the four that depend on you.
- Understand "why" questions. They want an idea, not a name.
Most people who miss civics questions know the material. They lose points on habits. Here are eight to avoid.
1. Giving one answer when the question asks for more
Seven questions need more than one answer. If you give only one, it does not count as correct. These are the questions, as written:
- Name two important ideas from the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution. (2 answers)
- What are two Cabinet-level positions? (2 answers)
- What are three rights of everyone living in the United States? (3 answers)
- Name two promises that new citizens make in the Oath of Allegiance. (2 answers)
- What are two examples of civic participation in the United States? (2 answers)
- There were 13 original states. Name five. (5 answers)
- Name three national U.S. holidays. (3 answers)
Listen for the number: "two," "three" or "five."
2. Studying silently
The test is spoken. If you only read, you may know the answer and still freeze when you have to say it. Say every answer out loud.
3. Memorizing old names
Four answers name officials who change. Check them just before your interview. See the current answers.
4. Skipping the state questions
Your senator, representative, governor and capital are on the test, and no list can give you the answers. Look them up. See the state questions guide.
5. Mixing up the "why" questions
Some questions ask why. For example, "There are three branches of government. Why?" The answers are ideas: "So one part does not become too powerful," "Checks and balances" or "Separation of powers." Learn the idea, not only a name.
6. Rushing the question
Listen to the whole question before you answer. If you did not understand it, you can ask the officer to repeat it. Practicing by listening, not only reading, helps a lot.
7. Ignoring the parentheses
Words in parentheses are optional, so you do not have to say them. But do learn the main words. Short, clear answers work well.
8. Waiting until the last week
Spread your study over two weeks. Review what you miss. A short daily habit beats a late-night cram. Try the 14-day plan.
A quick self-check
- Can I say every answer out loud without looking?
- Do I know which questions need two, three or five answers?
- Have I looked up the four answers that change?
- Have I looked up my senators, representative, governor and capital?
- Have I taken at least two mock interviews?
What to do instead, in one line each
- Count the answers the question asks for, then give that many.
- Say every answer out loud.
- Check the four changing answers a few days before the interview.
- Look up your four personal answers and say them aloud.
- Learn the idea, not only the name.
- Listen to the whole question first.
- Learn the main words and keep answers short.
- Start two weeks early.
Common questions
What is the most common mistake on the civics test?
Giving one answer to a question that asks for more than one, such as "Name three national U.S. holidays."
Can I ask the officer to repeat a question?
Yes, if you did not understand it, you can ask the officer to repeat it.
Do I have to say the parentheses words?
No. Words in parentheses are optional.