1.
(001) A written acquisition plan must be reviewed and revised
Correct Answer
D. No less than annually.
Explanation
A written acquisition plan must be reviewed and revised at least once a year. This ensures that the plan is up to date and aligns with any changes in the organization's goals, objectives, or budget. Regular reviews also allow for adjustments to be made to the plan based on lessons learned from previous acquisitions. Quarterly, semi-annually, or as required reviews may not provide sufficient time for a thorough assessment and update of the acquisition plan.
2.
(001) 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 typically appropriate for acquisitions that have a written acquisition plan. This means that when there is a formal plan in place for the acquisition, it is advisable to have a panel that can review and provide input on the strategy. This helps ensure that the acquisition is well-planned and that all necessary factors and considerations are taken into account. The panel can provide valuable expertise and guidance in making informed decisions regarding the acquisition.
3.
(001) Who delegates responsibility to the Acquisition Strategy Panel chairperson?
Correct Answer
A. SAF/AQ.
Explanation
The correct answer is SAF/AQ. SAF/AQ stands for Secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition. As the head of the organization responsible for acquisition within the Air Force, the SAF/AQ has the authority to delegate responsibility to the Acquisition Strategy Panel chairperson. This delegation of responsibility allows for efficient decision-making and oversight in the acquisition process.
4.
(002) 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 are in charge of managing and overseeing the use, maintenance, and accountability of the property. This includes ensuring that the property is properly utilized, maintained, and returned at the end of the contract. The property administrator works closely with the contracting officer representative to ensure compliance with regulations and contract requirements. The program manager is responsible for overall program management, the financial manager handles financial aspects, but neither of them have direct responsibility for government furnished property.
5.
(003) 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 that should only be accessed by authorized personnel. These files may contain details about pricing, negotiations, proprietary information, and other sensitive data that could be detrimental if it falls into the wrong hands or is accessed by individuals who do not have a legitimate need to know. Therefore, restricting access to contract files to only those who require the information for official purposes helps to protect the interests of all parties involved.
6.
(003) The purpose of a presolicitation notice is to
Correct Answer
B. Identify or develop interested sources
Explanation
A presolicitation notice serves the purpose of identifying or developing interested sources. It is used to inform potential bidders about an upcoming procurement opportunity and to gauge their interest in participating. This allows the government to identify qualified and interested vendors who may be suitable for the procurement. It also helps in developing a pool of potential bidders by attracting new vendors who may not have been aware of the opportunity.
7.
(003) 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 refers to the quantity that represents the best balance of acquisition and storage costs. It is the optimal order size that minimizes the total costs associated with ordering and holding inventory. By finding the economic order quantity, a company can determine the most cost-effective quantity to order, taking into account the costs of ordering, such as shipping and handling, and the costs of holding inventory, such as storage and carrying costs. This ensures that the company is not ordering excessive amounts of inventory, which would result in higher holding costs, or ordering insufficient quantities, which would increase the frequency of ordering and lead to higher ordering costs.
8.
(004) If the requirement document does not describe a commercial item, the next step you should
take is to
Correct Answer
A. Conduct market research
Explanation
When the requirement document does not describe a commercial item, the next step is to conduct market research. This is because market research helps to gather information about the availability of commercial items that can meet the requirements. It involves analyzing the market, identifying potential sources, and determining if there are any commercial items that can fulfill the needs specified in the requirement document. By conducting market research, the procurement team can gather valuable information to make informed decisions about sourcing options and potential suppliers.
9.
(004) 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
10.
(004) 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 the contracting officer must have a justification and approval within the file to support the inclusion of these provisions. The inclusion of restrictive provisions or inclusions should be based on the specific needs of the agency and should not be arbitrary or excessive. It is important to ensure that any restrictions or inclusions are justified and necessary for the successful completion of the project.
11.
(004) What limits competition and increases overall price when describing requirements?
Correct Answer
A. Listing non-essential characteristics
Explanation
Listing non-essential characteristics limits competition and increases 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 exclude certain suppliers who do not meet those criteria. This reduces competition and gives suppliers with the required characteristics more leverage to increase their prices.
12.
(004) Which of the following data is not required when describing the requirement?
Correct Answer
B. How the functions are to be performed
Explanation
The question asks for the data that is not required when describing the requirement. The options include 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. The only option that does not pertain to describing the requirement is "How the functions are to be performed." This option focuses on the method or process of performing the functions, which is not necessary when describing the requirement itself.
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 step in evaluating the effectiveness and relevance of the documents. By engaging with customers, you can gain insights into their requirements and expectations, allowing you to make informed decisions and improvements to better meet their needs.
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 that when reviewing construction specifications, you should ensure that the specifications are clear, free of conflicting requirements, and free of unnecessarily restrictive provisions or conditions. This means that the specifications should be easy to understand, should not have any contradictory requirements, and should not include unnecessary restrictions or conditions that could hinder the construction process. By ensuring these qualities in the specifications, it helps to ensure a smooth and successful construction project.
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 materials and equipment, the project may face delays and difficulties in execution. By ensuring that the required resources are available, the project can proceed smoothly and efficiently. Considering the availability of materials and equipment is therefore crucial in assessing the feasibility and practicality of the proposed progress schedule.
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. The Contracting Officer is responsible for overseeing the contract and ensuring that all terms and conditions are met. This includes providing information about the quality assurance personnel who will be working on the contract, including their names, duties, and limitations. This information is important for contractors to know so that they can effectively communicate and work with the quality assurance personnel throughout the duration 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 not only involved after the contract is awarded or prior to award, but they are also responsible for managing the contract throughout its entire duration. This ensures that the team can continuously assess and meet the customer's needs, address any issues that may arise, and ensure the successful delivery of services throughout the contract's life.
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 recommended to use methods that are open, flexible, and geared to commercial practices. This means following the standards and practices commonly used in the commercial industry rather than strictly adhering to military processes or specifications. By doing so, organizations can benefit from the efficiency, innovation, and cost-effectiveness that are often associated with commercial practices. Additionally, using commercial practices allows for greater collaboration and interoperability with commercial partners.
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 is a federal law that requires the payment of prevailing wages to laborers and mechanics on federally funded construction projects. It applies to construction contracts that exceed $2,000. Therefore, the correct answer is the construction contract of $2,500, as it meets the criteria for the application of the Davis-Bacon Act.
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 a product or service that is made outside of the US is significantly higher than purchasing a similar product or service made within the US, the Buy American Act restrictions can be waived. This allows for flexibility in situations where the cost of complying with the Buy American Act would be excessive or impractical.
21.
(008) Which law applies to commercial acquisitions?
Correct Answer
B. Truth in Negotiations Act
Explanation
The correct answer is the Truth in Negotiations Act. This law applies to commercial acquisitions and requires contractors to disclose accurate, complete, and current cost or pricing data. The purpose of this act is to ensure that the government gets a fair and reasonable price when acquiring goods or services from contractors. By requiring contractors to provide cost or pricing data, the government can evaluate the reasonableness of the proposed prices and negotiate more effectively.
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 to 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 it is determined by the agency head that doing so will help maintain a reliable source of supplies or services. This could be necessary in situations where the agency wants to ensure a consistent and dependable supply chain for their needs.
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 set forth in the Small Business Act for allowing only small businesses to compete for the solicitation. It indicates that the contracting officer has properly followed the regulations and guidelines in ensuring that small businesses have the opportunity to participate in the procurement process.
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 a pressing and time-sensitive need for the goods or services. This provision recognizes that certain situations may arise where it is not possible to go through the normal contracting process before awarding a contract, such as emergencies or situations where a delay would cause significant harm or damage.
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 is a statutory authority that allows contracting without full-and-open competition. This authority is used when it is determined that the use of competitive procedures is not practicable or not in the best interest of the government. This could be due to reasons such as urgency, national security, or the need to maintain critical infrastructure.
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 essential to support the determination. This means that when making a determination, there needs to be a clear and factual statement or rationale that supports the decision being made. It is important to have evidence or a logical explanation to back up the determination in order to ensure its validity and reliability.
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 formal document that justifies the use of certain procurement methods or exceptions to standard procedures. It typically includes a description of the action being approved, identifies the contracting activity, and cites the appropriate statute and/or regulation. However, it does not include a specific contract type and contract amount, as those 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. A Justification and Approval is a document that provides the rationale for awarding a contract without full and open competition. It is required when the contracting officer determines that a sole-source award is necessary, such as when there is only one responsible source or when there is an urgent need. The Justification and Approval explains why competition is not feasible or would not be in the best interest of the government. It must be approved by the appropriate authority before the contract can be awarded.
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 the designation of a competition advocate for each contracting activity. This means that each contracting activity must have someone responsible for promoting competition in the procurement process. This helps to ensure that contracts are awarded fairly and that small businesses have equal opportunities to compete for government contracts. The Small Business Act, Regulatory Flexibility Act, and National Defense Authorization Act do not specifically require the designation of a competition advocate.
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 encourage and support the procurement of goods and services from commercial sources rather than relying solely on government sources. By doing so, they aim to foster competition in the marketplace, which can lead to better prices, improved quality, and increased innovation. This helps to ensure that the government gets the best value for its money and promotes a fair and competitive business environment.
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 during the project, plus a predetermined fee. The fee remains fixed regardless of the final cost of the project. Therefore, the contractor has the least incentive to control costs in this type of contract, as they will still receive the same fee regardless of whether they are able to reduce costs or not.
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 that will not change regardless of any fluctuations in the market or costs incurred by the contractor. On the other hand, a fixed-price with economic price adjustment contract allows for adjustments to the contract price based on changes in certain economic factors, such as inflation or labor costs. Both types of contracts provide a level of certainty for the government while also allowing for some flexibility in adjusting the price if necessary.
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 changes in economic factors, such as inflation or changes in material costs. It provides flexibility for both the buyer and the seller to adjust the price to reflect changing market conditions, ensuring that the contract remains fair and reasonable over time.
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
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 a cost-sharing contract. In a cost-sharing contract, the contractor and the government share the costs of the project based on a predetermined ratio. The contractor is responsible for a portion of the costs, while the government reimburses the contractor for the agreed-upon portion of allowable costs. This type of contract is often used when the government wants the contractor to have a financial stake in the project's success.
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 means that in certain situations, a fixed-price contract may not be suitable due to various factors such as uncertainty in the project scope, performance risks, or the need for flexibility in pricing. In such cases, incentive contracts provide a way to align the contractor's performance with the desired outcomes by offering additional incentives or rewards based on specific performance criteria.
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, it means that the contractor has spent more than expected. In this case, a downward adjustment of the target profit or fee is necessary to ensure that the contractor does not receive a higher profit or fee than originally intended. This adjustment helps to ensure that the contractor is properly incentivized to control costs and stay within the target.
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. Cost incentives are based on achieving cost targets or reducing costs. Delivery incentives are based on meeting or exceeding delivery schedules. Performance incentives are based on achieving specified performance objectives.
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 would be the most effective way to motivate contractors to strive for outstanding results in all incentive areas. This type of arrangement offers a variety of incentives that cater to different aspects of performance, such as financial rewards, recognition, career advancement opportunities, and additional benefits. By providing a range of incentives, contractors are more likely to be motivated and engaged, as they have multiple opportunities to be rewarded for their exceptional performance in various areas. This arrangement encourages contractors to excel in all incentive areas, leading to outstanding results.
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 and therefore cannot use other incentives. To motivate the contractor, the government uses award-fee provisions. These provisions allow the government to award additional fees to the contractor based on their performance, encouraging them to meet or exceed expectations. This provides a flexible way to incentivize contractors without relying solely 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 place orders for specific quantities of goods or services, known as delivery orders, or for specific tasks to be performed, known as task orders. This allows for flexibility in meeting the government's needs while still adhering to the terms and conditions of the overarching contract.
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 allows for flexibility in the quantity of supplies or services ordered, with the government having the option to order more or less than the stated minimum quantity.
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
The appropriate contract in this scenario is time and materials. This type of contract allows the contractor to acquire materials and services based on direct labor hours at specified fixed hourly rates. With a time and materials contract, the contractor is reimbursed for the actual hours worked and the cost of materials used, providing flexibility for the contractor to adjust the scope and requirements of the project as needed. This type of contract is commonly used when the scope of work is uncertain or when it is difficult to determine the exact quantities of materials and services needed upfront.
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 a letter contract is considered as a last resort when no other type of contract is appropriate for the specific situation. It is important for the head of the contracting activity or their designated representative to make this determination in writing to ensure that the decision is documented and can be reviewed if needed.
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 even if the original agreement was based on competition, further competition may still be required for individual orders.
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 correct answer is United States Code. The United States Code is a compilation of all the federal laws passed by the United States Congress. It contains various provisions and regulations related to government contracts, including the requirement for contracting officers to promote and provide for full-and-open competition when soliciting offers and awarding government contracts. This policy aims to ensure fairness, transparency, and efficiency in the procurement process.
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 the solicitation, submission, and evaluation of sealed bids can be done within the available time, 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 fixed price for the goods or services being procured, and the contractor is responsible for any additional costs that may arise during the project. This type of contract is commonly used when the scope of work is well-defined and there is little risk of changes or unforeseen circumstances. It provides a clear and straightforward agreement between the buyer and the seller.
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 procurement, including the scope of work, terms and conditions, and any technical requirements. The IFB is then used to solicit bids from potential suppliers or contractors. By preparing the IFB, the organization is able to clearly communicate their requirements and expectations to potential bidders, ensuring a fair and competitive bidding 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 the bid documents have been submitted, they 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 to their 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, under Part I, The Schedule, you would find the section titled "Contract administration data." This section includes information related to the administration of the contract, such as the name and address of the contracting officer, the contract administration office, and the payment office. It also includes details about contract funding, contract type, and other administrative information that is necessary for the proper management and execution of the contract.