1.
According to the FAR:
Correct Answer
C. Agencies should take positive action to preclude the need for ratification actions
Explanation
The correct answer is "Agencies should take positive action to preclude the need for ratification actions." This means that agencies should actively work to prevent unauthorized commitments from occurring in the first place, so that there is no need for ratification. By establishing proper procedures and controls, agencies can minimize the risk of unauthorized commitments and the subsequent need for ratification.
2.
A form of written approval signed by an authorized official that is required by statute or regulation as a prerequisite to taking certain contract actions is defined as a:
Correct Answer
B. Determination and Findings
Explanation
A Determination and Findings is a form of written approval signed by an authorized official that is required by statute or regulation as a prerequisite to taking certain contract actions. It is a formal document that outlines the reasoning and justification behind a specific decision or action taken by a contracting officer. This document helps ensure transparency and accountability in the contract process by providing a clear record of the decision-making process.
3.
Class D & Fs:
Correct Answer
D. Provide authority for contracting actions for the same or related supplies or services or other contracting actions that require essentially identical justification
Explanation
This statement is the correct answer because it accurately describes the purpose of Class D & Fs. These documents provide the authority for contracting actions that involve the same or related supplies or services, or other contracting actions that require essentially identical justification. By signing these documents, the requesting official grants the necessary authority for these specific contracting actions. Additionally, Class D & Fs are for an indefinite period, meaning they do not have a set expiration date and can be used as long as the justification remains valid.
4.
The point when agency needs are established and includes all activities directly related to the process of fulfilling agency needs by contract is defined as
Correct Answer
C. Acquisition
Explanation
Acquisition refers to the point when agency needs are established and includes all activities directly related to the process of fulfilling agency needs by contract. It involves identifying the requirements, determining the best approach to meet those requirements, and obtaining the necessary goods or services through a contractual agreement. This process may include activities such as market research, soliciting proposals, evaluating offers, and negotiating contracts. Therefore, acquisition is the correct answer in this context.
5.
Which of the following is a Commercialitem?
Correct Answer
A. A commercialitem which has been minimally modified to meet Government requirements
Explanation
A commercial item refers to a product or service that is available in the marketplace and is sold to the general public. In this case, the correct answer is "A commercial item which has been minimally modified to meet Government requirements." This means that the item is originally a commercial product but has undergone minimal modifications to meet the specific needs or requirements of the government.
6.
Consolidating two or more requirements for supplies or services,previously provided or performed under separate smaller contracts, into a solicitation for a single contract is defined as:
Correct Answer
C. Bundling
Explanation
Bundling is the process of combining two or more requirements for supplies or services that were previously provided or performed under separate smaller contracts into a single solicitation for a contract. This allows for a more efficient procurement process by consolidating the requirements and potentially achieving cost savings or other benefits.
7.
Which of the following are included in the definition of "contracts"?
Correct Answer
C. Letter contracts and job orders issued under Basic Ordering Agreements
Explanation
The definition of "contracts" includes letter contracts and job orders issued under Basic Ordering Agreements. This means that these types of agreements are considered to be contracts according to the definition.
8.
The Government can minimize the opportunity for buying-in by using any of the following techniques:
Correct Answer
D. Multiyear contracting, priced options, and amortization of nonrecurring costs
Explanation
The government can minimize the opportunity for buying-in by using multiyear contracting, priced options, and amortization of nonrecurring costs. Multiyear contracting allows for longer-term contracts, reducing the need for frequent re-bidding and decreasing the opportunity for buying-in. Priced options provide flexibility in pricing and can discourage potential buyers from attempting to manipulate the procurement process. Amortization of nonrecurring costs spreads out the costs over a longer period, making it less attractive for potential buyers to engage in buying-in activities. These techniques together help minimize the possibility of buying-in and ensure a fair and transparent procurement process.
9.
Contractor's arrangements to pay contingent fees for soliciting Government contracts have long been considered contrary to public policy because
Correct Answer
B. Such arrangements may lead to attempted or actual exercise of improper influence
Explanation
Contractor's arrangements to pay contingent fees for soliciting Government contracts have long been considered contrary to public policy because they may lead to attempted or actual exercise of improper influence. This means that when contractors offer to pay fees in order to secure contracts, it creates a situation where there is a potential for corruption or unethical behavior. This undermines the principles of fair competition and transparency in the government contract process.
10.
A contract with a corporation shall be signed:
Correct Answer
C. In the corporate name, followed by the word "by" and the signature and title of the person authorized to sign
Explanation
The correct answer is "In the corporate name, followed by the word 'by' and the signature and title of the person authorized to sign." This is because when signing a contract with a corporation, it is important to clearly indicate that the signature is being made on behalf of the corporation. This is done by signing in the corporate name, followed by the word "by" and the signature and title of the person who is authorized to sign on behalf of the corporation. This ensures that the contract is legally binding and that the person signing has the authority to do so.
11.
What is the dollar threshold for public announcement of contract awards?
Correct Answer
B. $3,500,000
Explanation
The dollar threshold for public announcement of contract awards is $3,500,000. This means that any contract awarded for an amount equal to or greater than $3,500,000 must be publicly announced. Contracts below this threshold may not require public announcement.
12.
Acceptable methods for disseminating information on proposed contract actions include:
Correct Answer
C. Assisting local trade association in disseminating information to their members, announcements in magazines at no cost, and synopsis in the Government-wide point of entry
Explanation
This answer is correct because it includes all of the acceptable methods for disseminating information on proposed contract actions. These methods include assisting local trade associations in disseminating information to their members, making announcements in magazines at no cost, and publishing a synopsis in the Government-wide point of entry. These methods ensure that the information reaches a wide audience and is accessible to potential contractors.
13.
The Contracting Officer may use competitive proposals in lieu of sealed bids if:
Correct Answer
C. It is necessary to conduct discussions
Explanation
The correct answer is "It is necessary to conduct discussions." This means that if there is a need for the contracting officer to have discussions with potential contractors in order to clarify or negotiate certain terms or requirements of the contract, competitive proposals may be used instead of sealed bids. This allows for more flexibility and the opportunity to have a dialogue with the contractors before making a final decision.
14.
The contracting officer's certification can serve as approval of the justification for other than full and open competition for a proposed contract NOT exceeding
Correct Answer
B. $550,000
Explanation
The contracting officer's certification can serve as approval of the justification for other than full and open competition for a proposed contract NOT exceeding $550,000. This means that if the proposed contract is below $550,000, the contracting officer's certification can be used as approval for not conducting a full and open competition. However, if the proposed contract exceeds $550,000, a different approval process or justification would be required.
15.
FAR Part 6, Competition Requirements, applies to which of the following:
Correct Answer
A. A $1M contract for construction
Explanation
FAR Part 6, Competition Requirements, applies to a $1M contract for construction. This means that when awarding a $1M construction contract, the government must follow the competition requirements outlined in FAR Part 6. These requirements ensure that the contract is awarded in a fair and competitive manner, promoting transparency and preventing favoritism or unfair practices.
16.
If other than full and open competition is anticipated, the acquisition plan must be coordinated with the cognizant
Correct Answer
A. Competition Advocate
Explanation
The correct answer is Competition Advocate. The Competition Advocate is responsible for ensuring that full and open competition is achieved to the maximum extent possible in government acquisitions. If other than full and open competition is anticipated, the acquisition plan must be coordinated with the Competition Advocate to ensure that the appropriate justifications and approvals are in place. This helps to promote fairness and transparency in the acquisition process.
17.
Acquisition planning should begin:
Correct Answer
C. As soon as the agency need is identified
Explanation
The correct answer is "As soon as the agency need is identified." Acquisition planning should begin as soon as the agency need is identified because this allows for sufficient time to develop a comprehensive plan for acquiring the necessary goods or services. By starting the planning process early, the agency can gather all the necessary information, assess potential risks, and develop a strategy to meet the identified need in the most efficient and effective manner. Waiting until a purchase request or Statement of Work is received may result in delays and a rushed planning process, which can lead to poor decision-making and potential problems during the acquisition process.
18.
The Federal Supply program provides Federal agencies with a simplified process for obtaining commonly used commercial supplies and services at prices associated with volume buying. It is directed and managed by the:
Correct Answer
C. General Services Administration
Explanation
The General Services Administration (GSA) is responsible for directing and managing the Federal Supply program. This program aims to provide Federal agencies with an easy and streamlined process to acquire commonly used commercial supplies and services at prices that are associated with volume buying. The GSA ensures that the program operates efficiently and effectively, allowing Federal agencies to obtain the necessary resources they need at competitive prices.
19.
Which of the following is the name of GSA's electronic system which allows ordering activities to post requirements, obtain quotes, and issue orders electronically:
Correct Answer
C. E-Buy
Explanation
e-Buy is the correct answer because it is GSA's electronic system that enables ordering activities to post requirements, obtain quotes, and issue orders electronically. This system streamlines the procurement process by providing a platform for buyers to connect with vendors and facilitate the purchase of goods and services. With e-Buy, ordering activities can easily access a wide range of products and services offered by GSA's contracted vendors, ensuring efficiency and transparency in the procurement process.
20.
In the event that the Federal Prison Industries (FPI) and nonprofit agencies participating in the Javits-Wagner-O'Day (JWOD) Pr()gram produce identical supplies, the ordering offices shall purchase supplies from the following sources based on priority. Identify the source which has first priority:
Correct Answer
B. FederalPrison Industries, Inc.
Explanation
Federal Prison Industries, Inc. has first priority because it is listed before the other sources in the order of priority.
21.
Normally, testing and approval is appropriate in contracts for:
Correct Answer
D. Products requiring an approved first article to serve as a manufacturing standard
Explanation
Testing and approval is appropriate in contracts for products requiring an approved first article to serve as a manufacturing standard. This means that before the production of the product can begin, a sample or prototype known as the "first article" must be reviewed and approved by the buyer or the contracting party. This ensures that the product meets the required specifications and serves as a benchmark for future production. By testing and approving the first article, the contracting parties can establish a standard for quality and performance that subsequent products must meet.
22.
A qualification requirement is a Government requirement for
Correct Answer
A. Testing or other quality assurance demonstration that must be completed before award
Explanation
The correct answer is "Testing or other quality assurance demonstration that must be completed before award". This means that before a contract is awarded to a contractor, they must complete testing or provide evidence of quality assurance to demonstrate their capabilities and ensure that they meet the necessary requirements. This requirement is important to ensure that the contractor is capable of delivering the desired quality and meeting the standards set by the government.
23.
Agencies are required to use the results of market research to determine:
Correct Answer
D. The extent to which commercial items or nondevelopmentalitems could satisfy the need
Explanation
Agencies are required to use the results of market research to determine the extent to which commercial items or nondevelopmental items could satisfy the need. This means that they need to assess whether there are existing products or solutions in the market that can meet the government's requirements. By conducting market research, agencies can evaluate the availability and suitability of commercial or nondevelopmental items, which can potentially save time and resources compared to developing new items from scratch.
24.
If market research indicates that neither commercial items nor nondevelopmental items are available to satisfy agency needs, agencies:
Correct Answer
A. Must reevaluate the need and determine whether it can be restated to permit commercial or nondevelopmental items to satisfy them
Explanation
If market research indicates that neither commercial items nor nondevelopmental items are available to satisfy agency needs, agencies must reevaluate the need and determine whether it can be restated to permit commercial or nondevelopmental items to satisfy them. This means that the agency should reassess their requirements and see if there is any possibility to modify or redefine them in a way that would allow the use of commercial or nondevelopmental items. This is the appropriate course of action when no suitable options are available in the market.
25.
Contract delivery or performance may be expressed by:
Correct Answer
B. Specific number of days from the date of the contract
Explanation
Contract delivery or performance may be expressed by a specific number of days from the date of the contract. This means that the contract will specify a certain number of days within which the delivery or performance of the contract must be completed. This provides a clear and objective timeline for both parties involved in the contract. It allows for proper planning and ensures that the delivery or performance is completed within a reasonable timeframe.
26.
To the maximum extent practicable, acquisition officials should state all the following requirements with respect to an acquisition of supplies or services, with the exception of:
Correct Answer
D. Preference for commercial or nondevelopmental items
Explanation
Acquisition officials should state all the requirements related to an acquisition of supplies or services, such as the functions to be performed, performance required, and essential physical characteristics. However, they do not need to state a preference for commercial or nondevelopmental items. This means that the preference for commercial or nondevelopmental items is not a requirement that needs to be explicitly stated.
27.
Contracting activities shall employ simplified acquisition procedures to the maximum extent practicable for acquisitions of commercial items not exceeding:
Correct Answer
C. $5,500,000
Explanation
Contracting activities shall employ simplified acquisition procedures to the maximum extent practicable for acquisitions of commercial items not exceeding $5,500,000. This means that for acquisitions of commercial items below this threshold, simplified acquisition procedures should be used whenever possible. Simplified acquisition procedures are less complex and time-consuming than other acquisition methods, making them more efficient for smaller purchases. By utilizing these procedures, contracting activities can streamline the acquisition process and save time and resources.
28.
Unless otherwise provided in section 12.207(b), agencies shall use which of the following contract type(s) for the acquisition of commercialitems:
Correct Answer
D. Cost plus incentive fee contracts only
Explanation
The correct answer is "Cost plus incentive fee contracts only" because the question asks for the contract type(s) that agencies shall use for the acquisition of commercial items. The other options mentioned, such as any type of contract, fixed-price contract with prospective price redetermination, and firm-fixed-price or fixed-price with economic price adjustment contracts, are not specifically mentioned as the required contract types for commercial items. Therefore, the correct answer is cost plus incentive fee contracts only.
29.
Cost Accounting Standards
Correct Answer
D. Set of 19 standards and rules promulgated by the United States Government
Explanation
The correct answer is "set of 19 standards and rules promulgated by the United States Government." Cost Accounting Standards refer to a specific set of regulations and guidelines established by the U.S. government. These standards are applicable to all types of acquisitions, including commercial items. They ensure consistency and accuracy in cost accounting practices, particularly for government contracts and procurement processes.
30.
When acquiring commercialitems, the contracting officer
Correct Answer
C. Must establish price reasonableness in accordance with 13.106-3, 14.408-2, or Subpart
15.4, as applicable
Explanation
When acquiring commercial items, the contracting officer must establish price reasonableness in accordance with 13.106-3, 14.408-2, or Subpart 15.4, as applicable. This means that the contracting officer cannot simply accept the commercial standard for price reasonableness, but rather must follow the specific guidelines and regulations outlined in the mentioned sections. Establishing price reasonableness is an important step in ensuring that the government is paying a fair and reasonable price for the commercial items being acquired.
31.
A system whereby the CO receives authorization from a fiscal and accounting officer to obligate funds on purchase documents against a specified lump sum of funds reserved for the purpose for a specified time rather than obtaining individual obligation authority on each purchase document is:
Correct Answer
C. Bulk funding
Explanation
Bulk funding is a system in which the Contracting Officer (CO) receives authorization from a fiscal and accounting officer to obligate funds on purchase documents against a specified lump sum of funds reserved for a specified time. This means that instead of obtaining individual obligation authority on each purchase document, the CO can use the reserved funds for multiple purchases. This allows for more efficient and streamlined procurement processes.
32.
A cash fund of a fixed amount established by an advance of funds, without charge to an appropriation, from an agency finance or disbursing officer to a duly appointed cashier for disbursement as needed from time to time in making payment in cash for relatively small purchases is a/an:
Correct Answer
C. Lmprest fund
Explanation
An imprest fund is a cash fund that is established by an advance of funds, without charge to an appropriation, from an agency finance or disbursing officer to a duly appointed cashier. This fund is used for making cash payments for relatively small purchases as and when needed. It helps to ensure that there is always a fixed amount of cash available for immediate disbursement, thus facilitating efficient and convenient payment for small expenses.
33.
Lmprest funds may be used for transactions up to:
Correct Answer
D. .$500
Explanation
The correct answer is $500. This means that the lmprest funds can be used for transactions up to a maximum of $500.
34.
It is advantageous to establish Blanket Purchase Agreements with firms who:
Correct Answer
D. Offer quality supplies or services at consistently lower prices than their competitors
Explanation
Establishing Blanket Purchase Agreements (BPAs) with firms that offer quality supplies or services at consistently lower prices than their competitors is advantageous because it allows the purchasing organization to secure these supplies or services at a lower cost. This can lead to cost savings and potentially increase the organization's overall profitability. By having a BPA with such firms, the organization can also ensure a reliable and consistent supply of quality goods or services, which is crucial for smooth operations.
35.
Which of the following is true concerning the use of simplified acquisition procedures?
Correct Answer
A. Purchases above the micro-purchase !evel are generally set-aside for small business
Explanation
The correct answer is that purchases above the micro-purchase level are generally set-aside for small business. This means that when the government is making purchases above a certain dollar amount, they will typically prioritize small businesses for those contracts. This is done to promote competition and provide opportunities for small businesses to participate in government procurement.
36.
Which of the following is true concerning Blanket Purchase Agreements (BPAs)?
Correct Answer
C. They may be established with more than one supplier
Explanation
Blanket Purchase Agreements (BPAs) can be established with more than one supplier. This means that a single BPA can be set up to procure goods or services from multiple suppliers. This allows the agency to have flexibility in selecting suppliers and ensures that they have access to a variety of options. By establishing BPAs with multiple suppliers, the agency can also potentially negotiate better prices and terms, as they have the ability to compare and choose the most advantageous offers. Therefore, the statement "They may be established with more than one supplier" is true concerning BPAs.
37.
When fast payment procedures are utilized, who is responsible for collecting debts resulting from failure of contractors to properly replace, repair, or correct supplies lost, damaged, or not conforming to purchase requirements?+
Correct Answer
B. Contracting Officer
Explanation
The contracting officer is responsible for collecting debts resulting from the failure of contractors to properly replace, repair, or correct supplies that are lost, damaged, or do not conform to purchase requirements. This role is specifically assigned to the contracting officer as part of their responsibilities in managing contracts and ensuring that contractors fulfill their obligations. The program manager, head of the contracting authority, and accounting and finance officer may have other roles and responsibilities related to the overall management of contracts and finances, but the specific responsibility for collecting debts in this situation lies with the contracting officer.
38.
FAR 13.302-4 "Termination or cancellation of purchase orders." If the contractor accepts the cancellation and does not claim that costs were incurred as a result of beginning performance under the purchase order, then
Correct Answer
D. Both a&b
Explanation
If the contractor accepts the cancellation and does not claim that costs were incurred as a result of beginning performance under the purchase order, then both options a and b apply. This means that no further action is required and the purchase order shall be considered canceled.
39.
Unpriced purchase orders may be used to acquire:
Correct Answer
A. Repairs to equipment requiring disassembly to determine the nature and extent of repairs
Explanation
Unpriced purchase orders may be used to acquire repairs to equipment requiring disassembly to determine the nature and extent of repairs because in such cases, the exact cost of repairs cannot be determined upfront. Disassembling the equipment is necessary to assess the extent of damage and determine the necessary repairs, which in turn will determine the final cost. Therefore, an unpriced purchase order allows for the flexibility to adjust the cost based on the findings during the disassembly process.
40.
Which of the following about micro-purchases is true?
Correct Answer
C. The Government-wide commercial purchase card is the preferred means to purchase and . 1 pay for them
Explanation
The correct answer is stating that the Government-wide commercial purchase card is the preferred means to purchase and pay for micro-purchases. This means that using the purchase card is the preferred method for acquiring and paying for goods or services that fall within the micro-purchase threshold.
41.
Which of the following is true about quotations?
Correct Answer
A. A quotation is not an offer
Explanation
A quotation is not an offer because it is a statement of price or terms that is provided in response to a request for quotation. It is not a binding agreement or commitment to sell a product or service. An offer, on the other hand, is a specific proposal that creates a legal obligation and can be accepted by the other party. Therefore, a quotation is merely a price estimate or proposal that can be accepted or rejected by the buyer.
42.
Which of the following concerning descriptive literature is true?
Correct Answer
B. The contracting officer may waive the requirement for descriptive literature
Explanation
The correct answer is that the contracting officer may waive the requirement for descriptive literature. This means that the contracting officer has the authority to decide whether or not to require descriptive literature from potential contractors. They have the discretion to waive this requirement if they deem it unnecessary or if the circumstances of the procurement do not warrant it. This gives the contracting officer flexibility in the procurement process.
43.
A pre-bid conference is never to be used for:
Correct Answer
B. Amending an ambiguous IFB
Explanation
A pre-bid conference is a meeting held before the submission of bids to provide potential bidders with information about the project or procurement. It is meant to clarify any questions or concerns raised by the industry and explain the requirements of the bid. However, it is not intended to amend an ambiguous Invitation for Bids (IFB). The IFB should be clear and unambiguous before the pre-bid conference takes place. If there are any ambiguities in the IFB, they should be addressed and clarified before the conference, rather than attempting to amend it during the conference.
44.
The first step of two-step bidding involves:
Correct Answer
B. Technical analysis only
Explanation
The first step of two-step bidding involves technical analysis only. This means that before submitting a bid, the bidder evaluates the technical aspects of the project or product being bid on. This analysis includes assessing the feasibility, requirements, and specifications of the project, as well as any potential risks or challenges. By conducting a thorough technical analysis, the bidder can determine if they have the capabilities and resources to successfully complete the project, which helps in making an informed decision about whether or not to proceed with the bidding process.
45.
What is acceptable evidence to establish the time of receipt at the government installation?
Correct Answer
D. Time/date stamp of that installation on the bid wrapper
Explanation
The time/date stamp of the government installation on the bid wrapper is the most acceptable evidence to establish the time of receipt. This is because the stamp provides a clear and official record of when the bid was received by the government installation. It is a reliable and objective piece of evidence that can be easily verified. The US Post Office proof of mailing receipt, other documentary evidence maintained by the contractor, and oral testimony or statements by the bidder's personnel may not be as reliable or objective as the time/date stamp on the bid wrapper.
46.
Which is not a reason to reject a bid?
Correct Answer
C. The schedule contains an apparent clerical mistake
Explanation
A bid may be rejected if it does not conform to the delivery schedule, if the price is unreasonable, or if the bid states a price as being subject to "price in effect at time of delivery". However, the presence of an apparent clerical mistake in the schedule would not be a reason to reject a bid.
47.
Which of the following concerning electronic bids is true?
Correct Answer
A. Contracting officers may authorize use of electronic commerce for submission of bids but must specify the electronic commerce method(s) that bidders may use
Explanation
Contracting officers have the authority to allow the use of electronic commerce for bid submissions. However, they are required to specify the electronic commerce method(s) that bidders are allowed to use. This ensures that there is clarity and consistency in the bidding process.
48.
Which of the following contract types may be used with Sealed Bidding procedures?
Correct Answer
B. Firm-Fixed-Price and sometimes fixed-price with economic price adjustment.
Explanation
Sealed Bidding procedures typically involve a competitive bidding process where the contract is awarded to the bidder with the lowest price. In this type of procedure, the contract type that is commonly used is Firm-Fixed-Price, where the price is predetermined and does not change. However, in some cases, a fixed-price contract with economic price adjustment may also be used. This type of contract allows for adjustments to the price based on specified economic factors, such as inflation or changes in labor costs. Therefore, the correct answer is Firm-Fixed-Price and sometimes fixed-price with economic price adjustment.
49.
Exchanges of information among all interested parties are encouraged:
Correct Answer
A. From the earliest identification of a requirement through receipt of proposals
Explanation
Exchanges of information among all interested parties are encouraged from the earliest identification of a requirement through receipt of proposals. This means that from the very beginning of the process, when the requirement is identified, until the point when proposals are received, there should be open communication and information sharing between all parties involved. This ensures that all relevant information is shared and allows for a collaborative and transparent acquisition process.
50.
The process of examining and evaluating a proposed price without evaluating its separate cost elements and proposed profit is called:
Correct Answer
B. Price analysis
Explanation
Price analysis is the process of examining and evaluating a proposed price without evaluating its separate cost elements and proposed profit. This means that in price analysis, the focus is solely on the price itself, without considering the underlying costs or profit margins. Price analysis is commonly used in procurement and contracting to assess the reasonableness and competitiveness of proposed prices. It helps in determining whether the price offered is fair and reasonable based on market conditions, historical data, and other relevant factors.