NCCER Core Curriculum study guide
NCCER Core Curriculum · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
NCCER - the National Center for Construction Education & Research - describes itself as "an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational foundation" created in 1996 that provides industry-recognized credentials and construction training. Its published figures include "26.2M+ Successful Training Completions," "1,105 Accredited Organizations" and "1,489 Accredited Training & Assessment Programs." The Core Curriculum: Introductory Craft Skills is NCCER's entry-level sequence, the common starting point for learners entering any craft pathway - high school and postsecondary students, apprentices, career changers and veterans using the organization's learner resources. The NCCER Core Curriculum study guide has 9 sections and about 2,841 words.
01Basic Safety
Safety begins with a hazard assessment before the task starts: look up for overhead loads and power lines, look down for trip and fall hazards, and look around for chemical, electrical, and struck-by risks. PPE is the last line of defense, not the first.
307 words, about 2 min02Introduction to Construction Math
Construction math is mostly fractions, decimals, and unit conversion done accurately under time pressure. To add or subtract fractions you need a common denominator; to multiply or divide, convert to improper fractions or decimals.
312 words, about 2 min03Introduction to Hand Tools
Hand tools are grouped by function: measuring and layout (tape, framing square, combination square, chalk line, level), striking (claw hammer, sledge, mallet), cutting and shaping (handsaw, chisel, file, utility knife, tin snips), fastening (screwdrivers, wrenches, socket and ratchet), gripping and turning (pliers, locking pliers, pipe wrench), and prying/demolition (crowbar, pry bar). Choosing the correct tool for the material protects both the worker and the work.
330 words, about 2 min04Introduction to Power Tools
Power tools are classified by power source: electric (corded and cordless), pneumatic, hydraulic, and fuel-powered (gasoline). Each source has its own hazards - shock and cord damage for electric, whipping hoses and air injection for pneumatic, fluid injection and high pressure for hydraulic, and carbon monoxide for fuel-powered tools used indoors.
319 words, about 2 min05Introduction to Construction Drawings
A drawing set is organized from general to specific: plot or site plan, floor plans (plan view from above), elevations (exterior faces), sections (cut-away views), and details (enlarged close-ups). The title block identifies project, sheet number, date, and designer; the revision block tracks changes; the north arrow orients the plan; grid lines locate structural members; and the scale note tells you how paper distance relates to real distance.
308 words, about 2 min06Basic Rigging
Rigging transfers a load safely from one place to another. Know the load weight, its center of gravity, and the working load limit (WLL) of every component: slings (wire rope, chain, synthetic web), shackles, hooks, links, and eyebolts.
298 words, about 1 min07Basic Communication Skills
Communication on a job site runs through speaking, listening, writing, reading, and body language. Verbal messages are only part of the picture - tone, posture, eye contact, and gestures carry meaning, and on a noisy site they may carry most of it.
308 words, about 2 min08Basic Employability Skills
Employability skills are the habits that make technical skill usable: punctuality, reliable attendance, a positive attitude, teamwork, honesty, willingness to learn, and the ability to take direction. Being on time means arriving early enough to be ready to work at the start time - with PPE, tools, and transportation arranged in advance.
307 words, about 2 min09Introduction to Materials Handling
Most construction injuries are strains from lifting and carrying. Plan the lift: check the weight, clear the path, and decide whether you need help or a mechanical aid before you bend down.
352 words, about 2 min