GMA OOW Deck study plan

Explain the principles of terrestrial coordinate systems, including latitude, longitude, and the use of the nautical almanac, without reference notes.

Calculate compass error using amplitudes and azimuths of the sun, and convert between true, magnetic, and compass bearings for a set of given problems.

Interpret a nautical chart extract to identify symbols, abbreviations, and dangers, and plan a safe route through a constrained channel.

Describe the operation and limitations of echo sounders, speed logs, and gyrocompasses, and state the checks required before relying on their outputs.

Perform a running fix and estimated position calculation using tidal stream data, and explain the assumptions behind each.

Demonstrate the use of GNSS and terrestrial position-fixing methods, and list the failure modes and cross-check procedures for each.

Outline the carriage requirements and functional operation of GMDSS equipment for Sea Area A1–A4, including VHF, MF/HF, Inmarsat, and NAVTEX.

Transmit and interpret a distress alert, urgency, and safety message using correct GMDSS priority and procedure.

Explain the purpose of the NAVTEX and EGC systems and decode a sample NAVTEX message.

Summarize the key obligations under SOLAS, MARPOL, and STCW relevant to an OOW, and match each to a practical shipboard action.

Explain the requirements of the ISM Code and ISPS Code as they affect daily deck operations and security drills.

Describe the actions required under the collision regulations (COLREGs) for a crossing, head-on, and overtaking situation, and apply them to given scenarios.

Outline the emergency procedures for fire, abandon ship, man overboard, and flooding, including the muster list and onboard training requirements.

Identify the contents and use of the lifeboat, liferaft, and immersion suit, and state the maintenance and drill intervals required.

Explain the chain of command, the duties of the OOW, and the principles of safe watchkeeping under STCW, including fatigue management.

Describe the procedures for safe mooring, anchoring, and pilot embarkation, and list the associated risk controls.

Calculate the effect of adding or removing weights on a ship's stability, including KG, GM, and list, using a simple stability booklet extract.

Interpret a hydrostatic table and a deadweight scale to determine draft, trim, and displacement for given loading conditions.

Explain the purpose of the load line, freeboard, and intact stability criteria, and state the relevant IMO instruments.

Plan a cargo stowage for a general cargo vessel, including segregation, lashing, and weight distribution, and justify each decision.

Explain the hazards and precautions for carrying dangerous goods under the IMDG Code, and interpret a dangerous goods declaration.

Calculate the effect of a partially filled tank (free surface effect) on initial stability and describe how to minimize it.

Describe the procedures for loading and discharging bulk cargoes, including the risks of liquefaction and cargo shift.

Outline the requirements for cargo securing manuals and the inspection of lashings before departure.

Interpret synoptic charts, identify pressure systems and fronts, and forecast local weather changes for a given area.

Explain the formation of tropical revolving storms, the associated warning signs, and the recommended avoidance manoeuvres.

Describe the use of weather routing information and the limitations of shipboard forecasting tools.

Explain the operation of the main engine, steering gear, and auxiliary systems at a level sufficient to communicate with the engine room and detect developing faults.

List the checks and procedures for testing steering gear before departure and during passage, including the emergency steering drill.

Conduct a simulated fire drill and an abandon ship drill, and document the debrief points and corrective actions.

Explain the procedures for responding to pollution incidents under MARPOL and the ship's SOPEP, and list the required notifications.

Describe the investigation and reporting requirements for marine casualties and incidents under IMO and flag State rules.

Outline the survey and certification regime for a merchant ship, including the role of classification societies and port State control.

Explain the OOW's responsibilities during an emergency, including communication with the master, crew, and external authorities.

Complete a full-length timed mock examination covering all domains, and score each section separately.

Review every incorrect answer from the mock, classify the error type (knowledge gap, misreading, calculation), and write a corrective note for each.

Re-test the three weakest domains using a second set of mixed questions, and compare scores against the first attempt.

Summarize the top ten regulatory and navigation facts most likely to be tested, and recite them from memory.

Prepare a personal exam-day checklist covering documentation, equipment, and time management.