CIT study plan

Define and distinguish static pressure, dynamic pressure, operating pressure, and pressure loss, and convert between PSI, feet of head, and GPM/LPM

Compute flow velocity and friction loss for common irrigation pipe sizes using a friction-loss chart or table

Calculate available flow and pressure at the point of connection given meter size, service line size, and elevation change

Explain how elevation gain/loss changes pressure in a closed vs. open system using 0.433 PSI per foot of elevation

Match zone flow demand to available supply by summing emitter/head flows per zone

Select lateral and mainline pipe diameters that keep velocity within acceptable limits and friction loss budgeted

Determine precipitation rate for a head type and spacing, and identify matched-precipitation issues

Lay out valve zones and size a backflow device and meter to the design flow demand

Apply Ohm's law and series/parallel resistance rules to 24 VAC valve circuits and controller output loads

Trace and label a valve-to-controller wiring run including common wire, hot wires, and wire-nut/splice locations

Diagnose a non-opening valve using voltage, resistance, solenoid, and continuity measurements in a defined sequence

Configure controller programs: start times, run times, soak/cycle, seasonal adjust, and sensor bypass

Explain how rain, soil-moisture, and flow sensors interrupt or modify a schedule

Compare spray, rotor, rotary nozzle, bubbler, and drip emitters on flow, radius, pressure requirement, and application suitability

Select pipe, fittings, and valves by material, pressure rating, and application (PVC solvent-weld vs. poly insert, gate/globe/angle)

Size and match a pump to a system curve, and select the correct filter mesh for drip vs. spray

Identify the type of backflow assembly required for a given hazard level and explain the difference between RPZ, DCVA, PVB, and AVB

Determine where a backflow assembly must be located and what conditions make it compliant

Build a symptom-to-cause diagnostic sequence for low pressure, uneven coverage, dry spots, and continuously running valves

Perform systematic head-to-head coverage and pressure audits and document findings in a standard inspection form

Locate and repair a lateral or mainline leak involving trenching, cutting, coupling, and re-pressurizing

Describe correct trenching depth, bedding, slope, and marking requirements and prepare a site for a mainline run

Sequence a start-up and winterization procedure for both a poly and a PVC system

Plan a full installation sequence from site assessment through flush, charge, and walk-through

Identify utility locate requirements, permit needs, and inspection checkpoints before breaking ground

Select proper thrust-blocking, transition fittings, and support where mainline changes direction or material

Explain backflow testing intervals, who may test, and how test records are documented in a typical jurisdiction

Describe cross-connection hazards from chemigation, hose bibbs, and submerged valves and the required protective devices

Summarize electrical safety requirements for valve and controller work: lockout, GFCI protection, low-voltage vs. line-voltage separation

Interpret common water-management rules such as watering-day limits, run-off restrictions, and sensor requirements

Apply trenching and excavation safety rules for working near utilities and in open trenches

Identify the personal protective equipment and site practices required for valve boxes, chemical handling, and glue/solvent use

Review the top failure points for controllers, solenoids, and valves and the preventive maintenance interval for each

Re-derive the hydraulic formulas and unit conversions from memory without notes

Reproduce the backflow-device selection logic and placement rules from memory

Complete timed practice sets weighted by domain percentage to build pace and question triage

Catalog every missed or uncertain item and convert each into a corrected flashcard with the verified answer

Simulate exam-day conditions with a full-length timed test and review every error