AWS API 1104 Endorsement study plan

Map the API 1104 document structure chapter by chapter and note which clauses govern scope, referenced standards, and definitions

Define the key terms used throughout the standard (joint types, essential and nonessential variables, procedure qualification, performance qualification) in your own words

List the welding processes and positions the standard addresses and note where each is treated

Build a personal glossary of at least 40 terms with clause citations

Explain the difference between a welding procedure specification, a procedure qualification record, and a welder performance qualification

Identify the essential variables that trigger requalification of a procedure

Describe the range of qualification concept and how it limits what a qualified procedure covers

Outline the sequence of steps from procedure development through qualification testing

Describe how test welds for procedure qualification are made, including joint design, position, and number of test joints

Identify the destructive tests required for procedure qualification and what each test evaluates

State the acceptance criteria for tensile and nick-break specimens and explain the reasoning behind each limit

Calculate specimen dimensions and test requirements from a given pipe size and wall thickness

Describe guided bend test specimen preparation, bending apparatus requirements, and the bend radius and wrap-around dimensions

State the acceptance criteria for face and root bends and distinguish relevant defect indications from irrelevant ones

Explain when bend tests may be substituted or supplemented by other tests

Compare acceptance criteria across tensile, nick-break, and bend tests in a single reference table

Describe welder performance qualification test conditions, including position, pipe diameter, and progression

Explain how the essential variables for performance qualification differ from those for procedure qualification

Determine the qualified ranges a welder earns from a given test coupon and position

Identify the conditions that require requalification of a welder and the currency and continuity requirements

List the nondestructive examination methods recognized by the standard and the acceptance standards each references

Describe radiographic examination requirements, including image quality indicators, density ranges, and coverage

Interpret typical weld defect indications (porosity, slag, incomplete fusion, cracks) against acceptance limits

Identify when nondestructive testing is required versus when it is optional or specified by the contract

Describe repair and removal procedures for defective welds and the limits on repair length and frequency

Explain record retention, traceability, and documentation requirements for procedures and welders

Identify requirements for preheat, interpass temperature, and weather protection during production welding

Review the full standard for clauses you have not yet studied and close those gaps

Complete two full-length timed practice exams and score them against the answer key

Re-study every missed item and trace it back to the governing clause

Recite the essential variables for both procedure and performance qualification from memory

Build a one-page final review sheet of the highest-risk facts