Written Simulation

Purpose of the Exam

• The Written Simulation Exam applies to the Personal Trainer Certification only.
• The purpose of the ACE Written Simulation Exam is to test the decision-making ability of the candidate.
• The problems in the exam are intended to simulate, as closely as possible, the types of situations that an actual certified personal trainer may encounter in a professional setting.

Exam Format
Candidates will receive two booklets:

1. Problem Booklet
• The problem booklet contains two problems.
• Each problem is divided into sections.
• Each section begins with an introduction/scenario that describes a set of circumstances.
• Each section also contains a list of actions/decisions from which the candidate chooses those that he/she deems appropriate given the circumstances at that time.
2. Answer Booklet
• The answer booklet is printed on latent image paper. The booklet appears to be a set of blank pages.
• The candidate indicates their choice of actions/decisions (based on the problem) in the answer booklet. This is done by using a special latent image pen to highlight their choice. When a selection is made, a printed response/consequence to the action is revealed.
• An entire response has been exposed when a double asterisk (**) appears. Once a response has been uncovered, it cannot be erased or undone.

Exam Tools

• In the problem booklet, the candidate can use a pencil to help mark or order responses prior to making selections in the answer booklet.
• The candidate will receive a special latent image pen to use on the answer booklet.

Section Format

• Each section in a problem begins with a set of instructions that must be followed carefully.
• In each section, the choices appear in a random order. All of the choices should be considered before making any selection.
• The information given in a section is to be used to make decisions for the sections that follow.
• The candidate must be able to identify pertinent information. Many actions/decisions in real-life situations do not cause immediate observable results. In a similar manner, a significant number of selections (whether correct or incorrect) will reveal information that is not useful.
• Candidates have one hour to complete the written simulation examination.

Sample Problem

• The purpose of this sample problem is to familiarize candidates with the testing technique used in this examination.
• Candidates are advised that actual problems are more involved and longer than the sample problem.
• View a sample problem

Personal Trainer Written Simulation Demonstration and Instructions

• View powerpoint
• Written Simulation Quick Reference Guide – Live Exams
• Written Simulation Quick Reference Guide – Computer–based Testing

Purchase Study Materials that include the Written Simulation Sample Test

• Standard Personal Trainer Home Study Program
• Deluxe Personal Trainer Home Study Program