ACIArb (Intro to ADR) study guide
ACIArb (Intro to ADR) · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
The ACIArb (Introduction to Alternative Dispute Resolution) is the entry-level qualification offered by the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators. It is designed for people who are new to dispute resolution and want a recognised grounding before choosing a specialism: law students and graduates, junior lawyers and in-house counsel, contract and project professionals, engineers and surveyors, and anyone whose work involves managing conflict. The ACIArb (Intro to ADR) study guide has 8 sections and about 3,085 words.
01Overview of dispute resolution processes and the ADR spectrum
This domain tests whether you can place each process on the ADR spectrum and explain what makes it distinct: who controls the process, who decides, whether the outcome binds, and how the process interacts with litigation and arbitration. Negotiation is the only process with no neutral; parties retain control of both process and outcome.
357 words, about 2 min02Negotiation: theory, styles and practice
This domain tests the vocabulary of bargaining: distributive versus integrative negotiation, positions versus interests, BATNA, reservation value and ZOPA, and how preparation and concession strategy affect outcomes. It also tests ethical and authority limits.
410 words, about 2 min03Mediation: models, process and the mediator's role
This domain tests the mediator's function and the architecture of a mediation: voluntary participation, self-determination, confidentiality, impartiality, and the difference between facilitative and evaluative approaches. It also tests how settlements are recorded and enforced.
374 words, about 2 min04Conciliation and early neutral evaluation
This domain tests two processes often confused with mediation. Conciliation is a facilitated settlement process, but in some legal systems the conciliator may take a more proactive role, including proposing settlement terms.
382 words, about 2 min05Arbitration: agreement, tribunal, procedure and award
This domain tests the legal spine of arbitration: a valid agreement, a properly constituted tribunal, fair procedure, and a final award that can be enforced. It also tests the difference between the seat, the venue, the institution and the governing law.
395 words, about 2 min06Other processes: adjudication, expert determination, dispute boards and ODR
This domain tests the processes outside the mediation-arbitration core. The exam expects you to distinguish interim binding adjudication from final binding arbitration, contractual expert determination from arbitration, standing and ad hoc dispute boards, and online dispute resolution (ODR).
362 words, about 2 min07Legal and institutional framework: New York Convention, Model Law, institutional rules
This domain tests the layers of arbitration law. The New York Convention governs recognition and enforcement of foreign arbitral awards.
410 words, about 2 min08Ethics, confidentiality, impartiality and professional conduct
This domain tests the standards expected of neutrals and advocates: independence, impartiality, disclosure, confidentiality, competence and fair process. The exam often asks you to identify a conflict, a confidentiality breach, or an improper role switch.
395 words, about 2 min