USPS 476 study plan

Define the five core addressing components (recipient, delivery address, city, state, ZIP) and label each on ten sample address scenarios

Explain ZIP Code structure from the 5-digit base through ZIP+4 and identify what each segment represents

List the standard address format rules for mailpieces (line order, abbreviation standards, placement of apartment or suite designators)

Describe the purpose of CASS certification and NCOA processing in plain language

Differentiate mail classes and services (First-Class, Marketing, Periodicals, Package Services, Priority, Express) by content, weight, and time standard

Match common customer mailing needs to the correct class or service in fifteen scenario prompts

Identify extra services (tracking, signature, insurance, Certified) and state when each is appropriate

Explain forwarding, hold mail, and change-of-address basics and how each affects delivery

Trace a mailpiece through the full processing flow from collection to delivery and name each handoff point

Describe the roles of automation, barcode sorting, and address reading in processing speed and accuracy

Explain how distribution networks (processing plants, delivery units, hubs) connect to final delivery routes

Define key processing terms (dispatch, container, sortation, DPS) accurately in your own words

Explain how barcode quality and address accuracy reduce mis-sorts and undeliverable mail

Identify the main physical hazards in processing and delivery areas and the control for each

Describe safe lifting, carrying, and repetitive-motion practices for handling mail containers

List reporting steps for a workplace injury or near-miss

Apply a step-by-step retail transaction sequence (greet, identify need, recommend, complete, confirm) to five customer scenarios

Identify the correct form or procedure for common retail requests (money orders, PO Boxes, postage purchase, returns)

Summarize privacy and handling rules for customer information and mail

Explain prohibited and restricted item rules and how to respond when a customer presents one

Outline the standards for handling undeliverable-as-addressed mail and the disposition options

Describe accountability expectations for postal funds, accountable paper, and retail stock

Explain employee-conduct and ethical-use rules relevant to handling mail and customer data

Match ten regulatory scenarios to the governing policy area

Describe emergency response steps for fire, medical, suspicious package, and severe-weather events

Explain security awareness practices for recognizing and reporting suspicious mail or behavior

Demonstrate de-escalation language for an upset customer in three written scenarios

Identify safe handling and reporting steps for a suspicious or damaged parcel

Complete a timed mixed-domain practice set and score it by domain

Re-teach the two weakest domains using your own notes and reference sheets

Verify recall of key terms and standards across all five domains without notes

Build a final one-page summary sheet of the highest-risk facts for each domain