1.
A written acquisition plan must be reviewed and revised
Correct Answer
D. No less than annually.
Explanation
The correct answer is "no less than annually" because a written acquisition plan should be regularly reviewed and updated to ensure its accuracy and effectiveness. An annual review ensures that any changes in business goals, market conditions, or regulatory requirements can be incorporated into the plan. This helps to maintain the plan's relevance and alignment with the organization's overall strategy and objectives.
2.
Unless waived, an acquisition strategy panel is normally appropriate for
Correct Answer
D. Acquisitions that have a written acquisition plan.
Explanation
An acquisition strategy panel is normally appropriate for acquisitions that have a written acquisition plan. This means that when there is a detailed plan in place for the acquisition, it is advisable to have a panel to review and provide input on the strategy. This is especially important for complex requirements, as it allows for a thorough evaluation and assessment of the plan. However, the panel may not be necessary for all acquisitions performed in a foreign country or for weapons and aerospace program acquisitions, as these may have their own specific requirements and processes in place.
3.
Who delegates responsibility to the Acquisition Strategy Panel chairperson?
Correct Answer
A. SAF/AQ.
Explanation
The correct answer is SAF/AQ. SAF/AQ is responsible for delegating the responsibility to the Acquisition Strategy Panel chairperson.
4.
Who is responsible for all actions regarding government-furnished property provided to
contractors?
Correct Answer
C. Property administrator
Explanation
The property administrator is responsible for all actions regarding government-furnished property provided to contractors. They oversee the management, tracking, and accountability of the property, ensuring that it is used appropriately and maintained properly throughout the duration of the contract. They work closely with the contracting officer representative and other stakeholders to ensure compliance with regulations and contractual requirements. The property administrator plays a crucial role in ensuring the efficient and effective use of government-furnished property by contractors.
5.
Contract files are generally considered
Correct Answer
B. For official use only
Explanation
Contract files are generally considered "for official use only" because they contain sensitive and confidential information related to the terms, conditions, and obligations of a contract. This information is intended to be accessed and used only by authorized government personnel who are directly involved in the contract management process. Making these files open to the public or any government personnel could potentially compromise the confidentiality and security of the contract information.
6.
The purpose of a pre-solicitation notice is to
Correct Answer
B. Identify or develop interested sources
Explanation
A pre-solicitation notice serves the purpose of identifying or developing interested sources. This notice is typically issued by the government agency before releasing a formal solicitation for a contract opportunity. It allows the agency to gather information about potential bidders or contractors who may be interested in the project. By identifying or developing interested sources, the agency can ensure a competitive bidding process and increase the chances of finding qualified and capable vendors for the project.
7.
An economic order quantity is best defined as the
Correct Answer
C. Quantity that represents the best balance of acquisition and storage costs
Explanation
The economic order quantity is the quantity that represents the best balance of acquisition and storage costs. In other words, it is the optimal quantity to order in order to minimize the total costs associated with acquiring and storing inventory. By finding the economic order quantity, a company can avoid excessive inventory holding costs while also preventing stockouts and associated costs. This quantity takes into consideration factors such as ordering costs, carrying costs, and demand patterns to determine the most cost-effective order size.
8.
If the required document does not describe a commercial item, the next step you should
take is to
Correct Answer
A. Conduct market research
Explanation
If the required document does not describe a commercial item, the next step you should take is to conduct market research. This is because market research helps to gather information about the availability of commercial items in the market. By conducting market research, you can identify potential sources for the required item and determine if there are any commercial options available that meet the requirements. This step is important in order to explore all possible options and make an informed decision on how to proceed with the procurement process.
9.
If you complete extensive market research without finding a suitable commercial item that
will meet the need, you should
Correct Answer
C. Provide offerors of commercial and nondevelopmental items an opportunity to compete in any acquisition to fill such requirements
Explanation
If you complete extensive market research without finding a suitable commercial item that will meet the need, you should provide offerors of commercial and nondevelopmental items an opportunity to compete in any acquisition to fill such requirements. This means that you should allow both commercial and nondevelopmental item providers to submit proposals and compete for the opportunity to fulfill the requirements. This ensures that you are considering a wider range of options and giving all potential providers a fair chance to offer their solutions.
10.
You may include restrictive provisions or inclusions into specifications only
Correct Answer
B. To the extent necessary to satisfy the minimum needs of the agency or as authorized by law
Explanation
Restrictive provisions or inclusions can only be included in specifications when it is necessary to meet the minimum needs of the agency or when it is authorized by law. This means that any additional requirements or restrictions must have a justification and approval from the contracting officer, ensuring that they are essential for the agency's needs or comply with legal requirements. This helps to ensure that specifications are not unnecessarily burdensome or restrictive, and that they are in line with the agency's objectives and legal obligations.
11.
What limits competition and increases overall price when describing requirements?
Correct Answer
A. Listing non-essential characteristics
Explanation
Listing non-essential characteristics can limit competition and increase overall price when describing requirements because it narrows down the pool of potential suppliers. By including non-essential characteristics, the requirements become more specific and may only be met by a few suppliers who possess those specific characteristics. This reduces competition among suppliers and gives them more leverage to increase prices since there are fewer alternatives available.
12.
Which of the following data is not required when describing the requirement?
Correct Answer
B. How the functions are to be performed
Explanation
When describing the requirement, the performance required, terms that enable and encourage offerors to supply commercial items, and requiring prime contractors and subcontractors to incorporate commercial items or nondevelopmental items are all important information to include. However, the specific details of how the functions are to be performed are not necessary in describing the requirement.
13.
(004) To determine how well the documents within the Defense Standardization Program Policies
and Procedures reflect their needs, you communicate with customers
Correct Answer
A. As part of your market research.
Explanation
As part of your market research, you communicate with customers to determine how well the documents within the Defense Standardization Program Policies and Procedures reflect their needs. This suggests that gathering feedback and input from customers is an important aspect of evaluating the effectiveness of the program's documents. It allows for a better understanding of whether the documents are meeting the requirements and expectations of the customers, and helps identify any areas that may need improvement or adjustment.
14.
(005) When reviewing construction specifications, you should ensure that the
Correct Answer
C. Specifications are clear, free of conflicting requirements, and free of unnecessarily restrictive provisions or conditions
Explanation
The correct answer is to ensure that the specifications are clear, free of conflicting requirements, and free of unnecessarily restrictive provisions or conditions. This means that when reviewing construction specifications, it is important to make sure that the specifications are written in a way that is easy to understand, without any contradictory requirements, and without any unnecessary restrictions or conditions that could limit competition or increase costs. This helps to ensure that the specifications are fair and reasonable, and that all potential bidders have an equal opportunity to compete for the contract.
15.
(005) Before accepting a proposed progress schedule from the Civil Engineering Squadron, you
must consider
Correct Answer
D. The availability of materials and equipment
Explanation
When accepting a proposed progress schedule from the Civil Engineering Squadron, it is important to consider the availability of materials and equipment. This is because without the necessary resources, the project may face delays or disruptions, ultimately affecting its progress and completion. By assessing the availability of materials and equipment beforehand, potential issues can be identified and addressed in order to ensure a smooth and efficient execution of the project.
16.
(006) The responsibility for informing contractors of the name, duties, and limitations for all
quality assurance personnel assigned to a contract rests with the
Correct Answer
A. Contracting Officer
Explanation
The responsibility for informing contractors of the name, duties, and limitations for all quality assurance personnel assigned to a contract rests with the Contracting Officer. This means that it is the duty of the Contracting Officer to ensure that contractors are aware of the individuals who will be responsible for quality assurance on the contract, as well as their roles and limitations. This information is important for contractors to know in order to effectively work with the quality assurance personnel and meet the requirements of the contract.
17.
(006) Customer-focused multifunctional teams are established to plan and manage service
contracts
Correct Answer
D. Throughout the life of a contract
Explanation
Customer-focused multifunctional teams are established throughout the life of a contract to plan and manage service contracts. This means that these teams are involved in the planning and management of service contracts from the beginning to the end of the contract. They work closely with the customer to ensure that their needs are met and that the services provided are of high quality. This approach allows for continuous communication and collaboration between the team and the customer, leading to better customer satisfaction and successful contract execution.
18.
(006) When developing statements of work, use methods that are open, flexible and geared to
Correct Answer
B. Commercial practices
Explanation
When developing statements of work, it is advisable to use methods that are open, flexible, and geared towards commercial practices. This is because commercial practices are generally more adaptable and efficient compared to military processes or government processes. Commercial practices often prioritize cost-effectiveness, innovation, and customer satisfaction, which can be beneficial when developing statements of work for projects. By utilizing commercial practices, organizations can leverage industry best practices and standards to ensure successful project outcomes.
19.
(007) The Davis-Bacon Act applies to which of the following contracts?
Correct Answer
D. Construction contract of $2,500.
Explanation
The Davis-Bacon Act requires the payment of prevailing wages to laborers and mechanics working on federally funded construction contracts that exceed $2,500. Therefore, the correct answer is the construction contract of $2,500.
20.
(008) The Buy American Act restrictions do not apply when the
Correct Answer
B. Cost would be unreasonable
Explanation
The Buy American Act restrictions do not apply when the cost would be unreasonable. This means that if the cost of purchasing American-made products is deemed to be unreasonably high, the restrictions of the Buy American Act can be waived. In such cases, the government may choose to procure foreign-made products or services instead.
21.
(008) Which law applies to commercial acquisitions?
Correct Answer
B. Truth in Negotiations Act
Explanation
The Truth in Negotiations Act applies to commercial acquisitions. This law requires contractors to disclose accurate, complete, and current cost or pricing data for negotiated contracts. It aims to ensure that the government is paying fair and reasonable prices for goods and services. By requiring contractors to provide transparent pricing information, the act promotes competition and helps prevent fraud and abuse in government acquisitions.
22.
(009) Agencies may exclude particular sources from a contract action if the agency head
determines that to do so would
Correct Answer
D. Ensure the continuous availability of a reliable source of supplies or services
Explanation
The correct answer is "ensure the continuous availability of a reliable source of supplies or services". This means that agencies can exclude particular sources from a contract action if they believe that doing so will help ensure that they have a consistent and dependable source for the supplies or services they need. This could be important for maintaining the smooth operation of the agency and avoiding disruptions in their work.
23.
(009) As a contracting officer, you are authorized to set-aside solicitations to allow only small
businesses to compete when
Correct Answer
D. The set-aside fulfills the statutory requirements relating to small business concerns
Explanation
The correct answer is that the set-aside fulfills the statutory requirements relating to small business concerns. This means that the set-aside meets the legal requirements and criteria for allowing only small businesses to compete for the solicitation. This could include factors such as the size of the business, ownership structure, or other qualifications that classify it as a small business according to the relevant statutes and regulations.
24.
(009) Which statutory authority allows you to prepare the required justification and approval after
contract award?
Correct Answer
C. Unusual or Compelling Urgency, 10 USC 2304(c)(2).
Explanation
The correct answer is "Unusual or Compelling Urgency, 10 USC 2304(c)(2)". This statutory authority allows the preparation of the required justification and approval after contract award in cases where there is an urgent and compelling need for the goods or services. This provision allows for flexibility in the procurement process to ensure that critical needs can be met in a timely manner, even if the usual procurement procedures were not followed.
25.
(009) Which statutory authority permits contracting without providing for full-and-open
competition?
Correct Answer
A. Public Interest
Explanation
The correct answer is Public Interest. Public Interest allows for contracting without full-and-open competition when it is determined that it is necessary to protect the public interest. This could be due to urgency, national security concerns, or other reasons that justify limiting competition.
26.
(010) The “findings” in determination and findings means that
Correct Answer
D. A statement of fact or rationale essential to support the determination
Explanation
The term "findings" in determination and findings refers to a statement of fact or rationale that is crucial to support the determination being made. This means that the determination must be based on factual information or a logical reasoning that is necessary to justify the decision being made. Therefore, the correct answer is "a statement of fact or rationale essential to support the determination."
27.
(010) A determination and finding does not include
Correct Answer
C. A specific contract type and contract amount
Explanation
A determination and finding is a document that outlines the rationale and decision-making process behind a particular action or decision. It typically includes a description of the action being approved, identifies the contracting activity responsible, and cites the appropriate statute and regulation. However, it does not include a specific contract type and contract amount, as these details are usually included in the actual contract document itself.
28.
(010) The contracting officer’s determination for competition is supported by a determination and
finding and
Correct Answer
A. A Justification and Approval
Explanation
The contracting officer's determination for competition is supported by a Justification and Approval. This document provides a detailed explanation as to why competition is not feasible or practical for a particular procurement action. It outlines the specific circumstances that justify the use of non-competitive procedures and provides a legal basis for the contracting officer's decision. The Justification and Approval is typically reviewed and approved by higher-level officials to ensure that it meets the necessary requirements and is in compliance with applicable regulations.
29.
(011) Designating a competition advocate for each contracting activity is a requirement of the
Correct Answer
D. Office of Federal Procurement Policy Act
Explanation
The Office of Federal Procurement Policy Act requires each contracting activity to designate a competition advocate. This means that there must be someone within the contracting activity who is responsible for promoting and ensuring fair competition in the procurement process. This is important because competition can lead to better value for the government and opportunities for small businesses to participate in the procurement process.
30.
(011) Competition Advocates are responsible for
Correct Answer
B. Promoting the acquisition of commercial items.
Explanation
Competition Advocates are responsible for promoting the acquisition of commercial items. This means that they support and encourage the use of competition in the procurement process, specifically for commercial items. By doing so, they aim to ensure that the government obtains the best value for its money and promotes fair competition among vendors. This can help drive down costs, increase innovation, and improve overall efficiency in the acquisition process.
31.
(012) The contractor has the least incentive to control costs in a
Correct Answer
B. Cost-plus-fixed-fee contract
Explanation
In a cost-plus-fixed-fee contract, the contractor is reimbursed for the actual costs incurred in performing the contract, plus a fixed fee that is predetermined and does not change based on the contractor's performance or costs. This means that the contractor has less incentive to control costs because they will be reimbursed for all costs regardless of whether they are able to keep costs low or not. Therefore, the contractor may be less motivated to find cost-saving measures or efficiencies, leading to potentially higher costs for the client.
32.
(013) When acquiring commercial items the contracting officer uses a
Correct Answer
B. Firm-fixed-price or fixed-price with economic price adjustment contract
Explanation
When acquiring commercial items, the contracting officer can use either a firm-fixed-price contract or a fixed-price with economic price adjustment contract. A firm-fixed-price contract sets a specific price for the goods or services being acquired, which does not change regardless of any cost fluctuations. On the other hand, a fixed-price with economic price adjustment contract allows for price adjustments based on changes in specified economic factors, such as inflation or changes in labor or material costs. Both types of contracts provide a level of certainty in pricing for the government while acquiring commercial items.
33.
(013) Which contract type may be used when it is impossible to negotiate a fair and reasonable
firm-fixed-price after the initial contract performance period?
Correct Answer
C. Fixed-price with prospective price redetermination
Explanation
Fixed-price with prospective price redetermination may be used when it is impossible to negotiate a fair and reasonable firm-fixed-price after the initial contract performance period. This contract type allows for adjustments to the price based on certain factors or conditions that may arise during the performance of the contract. It provides flexibility to both the buyer and the seller in situations where the final price cannot be determined upfront but can be determined through a prospective price redetermination process.
34.
(013) When a contractor receives no fee and is reimbursed only for an agreed upon portion of his
or her allowable costs, the contractor is operating under which type of cost-reimbursement
contract?
Correct Answer
B. Cost-sharing
Explanation
A cost-sharing contract is a type of cost-reimbursement contract in which the contractor receives no fee but is reimbursed for an agreed upon portion of their allowable costs. This means that the contractor and the government share the costs of the project based on a predetermined ratio or formula. In this type of contract, the contractor is responsible for a portion of the costs, and the government pays the remaining portion.
35.
(014) Incentive contracts are appropriate when the
Correct Answer
C. Firm-fixed-price contract is not appropriate
Explanation
Incentive contracts are used when a firm-fixed-price contract is not appropriate. This suggests that there may be certain circumstances or conditions where a firm-fixed-price contract is not suitable or feasible. In such cases, incentive contracts, which provide additional incentives or rewards based on performance or outcomes, can be used as an alternative.
36.
(014) What factor ensures the proper treatment of the target profit or fee on a cost-incentive
contract?
Correct Answer
C. If actual cost exceeds the target, the result is a downward adjustment of the target profit or fee
Explanation
If the actual cost exceeds the target, the result is a downward adjustment of the target profit or fee. This means that if the cost of the project goes over the expected amount, the profit or fee that was initially set will be reduced. This ensures that the contractor is not rewarded with the full profit or fee if they are unable to control the costs effectively. It incentivizes the contractor to manage the costs efficiently and stay within the target to maximize their profit or fee.
37.
(014) What three types of predetermined, formula-type incentives may be used?
Correct Answer
B. Cost, delivery, and performance
Explanation
The three types of predetermined, formula-type incentives that may be used are cost, delivery, and performance. These incentives are used to motivate and reward individuals or organizations based on their ability to meet predetermined goals and targets related to cost control, timely delivery, and overall performance. By offering incentives in these areas, organizations can encourage and incentivize desired behaviors and outcomes, ultimately leading to improved efficiency, effectiveness, and overall success.
38.
(014) Which incentive arrangement should motivate contractors to strive for outstanding results in
all incentive areas?
Correct Answer
B. Multiple-incentive arrangement
Explanation
A multiple-incentive arrangement is the most effective way to motivate contractors to strive for outstanding results in all incentive areas. This arrangement provides a combination of different incentives, such as financial rewards, recognition, and career advancement opportunities, to ensure that contractors are motivated to excel in all aspects of their work. By offering a range of incentives, contractors are encouraged to perform at their best in order to maximize their rewards and achieve outstanding results in all areas of their work.
39.
(014) When the Government cannot use other incentives in fixed-price contracts because it cannot
objectively measure contractor performance, it motivates the contractor by using
Correct Answer
B. Award-fee provisions
Explanation
In fixed-price contracts, the government may not be able to objectively measure contractor performance, making it difficult to use other incentives. In such cases, the government motivates the contractor by using award-fee provisions. These provisions allow the government to award additional fees based on the contractor's performance, encouraging them to meet or exceed expectations. This provides a flexible way to incentivize contractors without relying on objective measurements.
40.
(015) Requirements and indefinite-quantity contracts are also known as
Correct Answer
D. Delivery order or task order contracts
Explanation
Requirements and indefinite-quantity contracts are commonly referred to as delivery order or task order contracts. These contracts allow the government to issue delivery orders or task orders against a pre-established contract for goods or services. The delivery order contracts are used when the government needs to specify the quantity and delivery schedule, while task order contracts are used when the government needs to specify the tasks to be performed and the time frame for completion. Both types of contracts provide flexibility and efficiency in procuring goods and services.
41.
(015) Which indefinite-delivery contract requires that the government order and the contractor
furnish a stated minimum quantity of supplies or services?
Correct Answer
D. Indefinite-quantity
Explanation
An indefinite-quantity contract is a type of contract that requires the government to order and the contractor to furnish a stated minimum quantity of supplies or services. This type of contract provides flexibility to the government by allowing them to order more supplies or services as needed, up to a specified maximum quantity. It is often used when the exact quantity of supplies or services needed cannot be determined at the time of contract award.
42.
(016) When a contractor will acquire materials and services based on direct labor hours at
specified fixed hourly rates, the appropriate contract is
Correct Answer
C. Time and materials
Explanation
When a contractor acquires materials and services based on direct labor hours at specified fixed hourly rates, the appropriate contract is a time and materials contract. This type of contract is commonly used when the scope of work is uncertain or difficult to define and allows for flexibility in pricing based on the actual hours worked and materials used. The contractor is reimbursed for their direct labor hours at the agreed-upon fixed hourly rate, as well as the cost of materials. This type of contract requires careful monitoring and control to ensure that costs do not exceed the agreed-upon limits.
43.
(016) What contractual instrument may be used only after the head of the contracting activity or a
designated representative determines in writing that no other is suitable?
Correct Answer
A. Letter contract
Explanation
A letter contract may be used only after the head of the contracting activity or a designated representative determines in writing that no other contractual instrument is suitable. This means that the decision to use a letter contract is made only when no other type of contract is appropriate for the specific situation. A letter contract is a temporary agreement that allows for the immediate start of work before all contractual terms and conditions are finalized. It is used when there is an urgent need for goods or services and there is not enough time to negotiate a full contract.
44.
(016) A basic ordering agreement includes all of the following information except
Correct Answer
D. Applicable FAR data indicating that no further competition is needed for individual orders if
competition was the basis for the original agreement.
Explanation
A basic ordering agreement includes delivery terms and conditions or how they will be determined, the applicable FAR data if Fast Payment procedures will apply to orders, and a list of one or more Government activities authorized to issue orders under the agreement. However, it does not include applicable FAR data indicating that no further competition is needed for individual orders if competition was the basis for the original agreement. This means that competition may still be required for individual orders even if the original agreement was based on competition.
45.
(017) Federal policy requiring contracting officers to promote and provide for full-and-open
competition when soliciting offers and awarding government contracts comes from the
Correct Answer
A. United States Code
Explanation
The United States Code is a compilation of all the federal laws of the United States. It is organized into titles, and Title 41 of the United States Code specifically pertains to public contracts. This title includes provisions that require contracting officers to promote and provide for full-and-open competition when soliciting offers and awarding government contracts. Therefore, the correct answer is United States Code.
46.
(017) Which general condition is not one that a contracting officer must meet in order to solicit
sealed bids?
Correct Answer
D. It may be necessary to conduct discussions with the responding offerors about their bids.
Explanation
The correct answer is "It may be necessary to conduct discussions with the responding offerors about their bids." This is because sealed bidding is a competitive procurement method where discussions with offerors are not allowed. The contracting officer must ensure that there is enough time for the solicitation, submission, and evaluation of sealed bids, and the award will be based solely on price and other price-related factors.
47.
(017) Which type of contract is used with the sealed-bidding method?
Correct Answer
A. Firm-fixed price
Explanation
The correct answer is "Firm-fixed price." In the sealed-bidding method, a firm-fixed price contract is used. This type of contract sets a specific price that will not change, regardless of the actual costs incurred by the contractor. It provides a clear and predictable cost for the buyer and places the risk of cost overruns on the contractor. This type of contract is commonly used when the scope of work is well-defined and there is little risk of changes or modifications.
48.
(017) The first step in the sealed-bidding process is
Correct Answer
A. Preparing the IFB
Explanation
The correct answer is preparing the IFB. In the sealed-bidding process, the first step is to prepare the Invitation for Bids (IFB). This involves gathering all the necessary information and specifications for the project or contract and creating a detailed document that outlines the requirements, terms, and conditions. This IFB will then be used to solicit bids from potential suppliers or contractors. The other options, reviewing the IFB, publicizing the IFB, and closing-out the previous contract, are not the first steps in the process.
49.
(017) Which statement about bid openings is correct?
Correct Answer
C. Bid documents submitted cannot be altered pHysically or verbally
Explanation
Bid documents submitted cannot be altered physically or verbally. This means that once a bid has been submitted, it cannot be changed or modified in any way. This ensures fairness and transparency in the bidding process, as all bidders are held to the same standard and cannot make any last-minute changes that could give them an unfair advantage. It also helps to maintain the integrity of the bidding process by preventing any tampering or manipulation of the bids.
50.
(018) When using the uniform contract format, which section title would you find under Part I –
The Schedule?
Correct Answer
C. Contract administration data
Explanation
In the uniform contract format, the section title that would be found under Part I - The Schedule is "Contract administration data". This section typically includes information related to contract administration, such as the name and address of the contracting officer, contract administration office, and any other relevant contact information. It may also include details about the type of contract, contract funding, and the period of performance.