NICET CMT Soils study plan

NICET CMT Soils · Give each week a clear focus.

8 weeks · About 8 hours per week

Week 1

Soils laboratory testing and classification

List the Atterberg limits (LL, PL, SL) and explain how each is determined, including the Casagrande and fall-cone methods.
Compute plasticity index (PI), liquidity index (LI), and activity, and interpret each value for soil behavior.
Describe the standard Proctor and modified Proctor compaction tests, including mold volumes, drop counts, and energy differences.
Read and interpret a grain-size distribution curve, including D10, D30, D60, Cu, and Cc.
Explain the USCS and AASHTO classification systems and classify at least ten provided soil descriptions by hand.

A one-page classification cheat sheet with USCS/AASHTO decision trees and worked examples for five soils.

Week 2

Perform and record specific gravity, sieve analysis, and hydrometer calculations from raw data.
Describe the compaction curve and explain how moisture content, compactive effort, and soil type shift the curve.
Calculate relative compaction and percent compaction from field and lab dry densities.
Identify when a one-point Proctor is acceptable and how to verify it against a full curve.
Explain the purpose of CBR and resilient modulus tests and the conditions under which each is specified.

A completed lab-data workbook with five worked problems (sieve, hydrometer, specific gravity, Proctor curve, relative compaction) and answers.

Week 3

Describe the sand-cone, rubber-balloon, and nuclear gauge methods, including when each is permitted and its limitations.
Calculate field dry density and moisture content from sand-cone and nuclear gauge field data.
Explain the calibration and verification requirements for nuclear density gauges, including standard count and leak test intervals.
Identify sources of error in field density testing (hole volume, sample disturbance, moisture loss, gauge positioning).
Interpret a compaction control specification: lift thickness, moisture tolerance, and acceptance criteria.

A field-testing procedure card for sand-cone and nuclear methods with calculation formulas and common-error checklist.

Week 4

Explain how to establish a test strip and use it to set lift thickness, roller passes, and moisture range.
Describe density-test frequency requirements and how to lay out a random test location plan.
Identify the roles of inspector, contractor, and owner in acceptance testing and dispute resolution.
Explain how to handle failing density or moisture results, including retesting and rework decisions.
Describe compaction equipment types and their suitability for different soil types and lift thicknesses.

A mock test-strip report with a density test location map, results table, and pass/fail recommendation.

Week 5

Describe subgrade preparation requirements: proofrolling, scarification, moisture conditioning, and grade tolerances.
Explain embankment construction sequencing, including lift placement, compaction, and slope benching.
Identify backfill requirements for retaining walls, culverts, and utility trenches, including select material and compaction zones.
Interpret compaction specifications for cohesionless soils, including vibratory compaction and density verification.
Recognize field indicators of inadequate compaction, such as pumping, rutting, and moisture variation.

A subgrade and embankment inspection checklist covering pre-placement, placement, and acceptance steps.

Week 6

Explain sampling methods for disturbed and undisturbed samples and the tests each supports.
Describe chain-of-custody, sample labeling, preservation, and transportation requirements.
Identify the required contents of a soil test report and how to check calculations for consistency.
Explain how to read a geotechnical specification and locate acceptance, testing, and payment provisions.
Describe the inspector's ethical obligations regarding accurate reporting, conflicts of interest, and pressure to alter results.

A sample test report review memo identifying three errors or omissions and the corrective action for each.

Week 7

Explain specification hierarchy (standard, project specification, special provision) and how to resolve conflicts.
Describe the process for resolving disputed test results, including referee testing and independent laboratories.
Review laboratory quality control requirements: calibration, duplicate tests, and proficiency samples.
Revisit classification and compaction calculations using timed practice problems.
Explain documentation practices that support defensible acceptance decisions.

A one-page dispute-resolution flowchart and a timed 20-question practice set with a score of 80% or better.

Week 8

Complete a full-length timed practice exam under test conditions.
Review every missed question and map it to the source domain and reference.
Re-drill the three weakest calculation types until errors are eliminated.
Summarize key specification tolerances, test frequencies, and acceptance criteria on a single reference sheet.
Confirm exam-day logistics, reference materials, and calculator policy.

A final review sheet plus a scored practice exam with a written correction log for every missed item.

Week 2: Score 80% or better on a 25-question domain 1 quiz covering classification, Atterberg limits, and Proctor calculations.

Week 4: Complete a sand-cone and nuclear gauge calculation set with 90% accuracy and explain the test-strip process without notes.

Week 6: Produce a compliant mock test report and identify at least three specification nonconformances in a sample scenario.

Week 8: Score 80% or better on a full-length timed practice exam and complete a correction log for every missed question.