General Electrical Requirements and Code Administration
Scope and Structure of the Code
Code administration questions test whether you know how the NEC is organized and how to apply it, not whether you have memorized article numbers. Understand that Chapters 1-4 apply generally, Chapters 5-7 modify or supplement those rules for special occupancies, conditions, and systems, and Chapter 8 covers communications systems largely independent of the earlier chapters. Chapter 9 and the Annexes are informational unless specifically referenced.
Mandatory vs. Permissive Language
Train yourself to read "shall" as mandatory and "shall be permitted" as permissive. A very common trap is a question that describes an acceptable but not required installation and asks whether it "must" be done. Another trap is confusing the minimum Code requirement with good engineering practice; the exam wants the Code minimum.
Approval, Listing, and Inspection
Equipment must be acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) and listed/labeled where the Code requires it. Listed equipment must be installed per its listing and labeling instructions. The AHJ interprets the Code and may grant written special permission for alternate methods.
Worked Example
A question asks the minimum number of small-appliance branch circuits in a dwelling. Rule of thumb: two or more 20 A small-appliance circuits are required, and they may serve only the kitchen/dining/pantry/breakfast areas. If an answer choice offers "one 20 A circuit serving kitchen and laundry," it is wrong on two counts-count and permitted loads.
Exam Strategy
Eliminate answers that cite "recommended" practices, that exceed Code minimums, or that confuse informational annexes with enforceable text.