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ACI Grade I guide

ACI Grade I Practice Test Strategy: Track All Seven Methods

Use a method-by-method score record for ACI written practice, and a separate observed-performance log. This page is a practice strategy, not an available 55-question test or an official assessment.

At a glance

What is the ACI Grade I credential?

ACI Grade I certifies knowledge and hands-on ability to perform and record seven field tests on freshly mixed concrete. Both written and performance examinations are required.

CREDENTIALING BODY
American Concrete Institute
BEST FIT
Concrete testing technicians, testing-agency staff, and employers planning supervised apparatus practice and certification testing.
Independent preparation: HoldPoint does not issue this credential or determine eligibility.CONTENT UPDATED 2026-10-02

FIELD NOTE 01

Do not blend method weaknesses away

ACI uses both an overall threshold and a per-method threshold. Build a spreadsheet with correct and attempted items for each method, so a strong slump result cannot hide a weak air-content topic.

  • C1064/C1064M: concrete temperature
  • C172/C172M: sampling freshly mixed concrete
  • C143/C143M: slump
  • C138/C138M: density, yield, and gravimetric air content
  • C231/C231M: pressure-method air content
  • C173/C173M: volumetric-method air content
  • C31/C31M: making and curing field specimens

FIELD NOTE 02

Classify the reason for the miss

For each written miss, identify apparatus, sequencing, calculation, recording, or concept confusion. Revisit the exact JTA objective using authorized source material.

  • Apparatus or method identification
  • Procedure sequence or recording
  • Calculation, unit, or concept error

FIELD NOTE 03

Measure practical preparation separately

A written practice score cannot establish physical performance. Arrange an observed equipment session and record what was actually demonstrated rather than marking a video watched as a skill passed.

  • Observed setup and equipment handling
  • Procedure omissions recorded by the observer
  • Next supervised practice date

Common questions

Questions this page answers

Is there a free official test here?

No. The downloadable method log organizes independent practice; it is not an official test or a scored examination.

Can I use a written practice score as a performance result?

No. Actual performance requires demonstrating the required methods/practices.

Use an original practice resource

Sources & boundaries

What supports this page

Original HoldPoint editorial guidance. Content updated 2026-10-02. This is not independent expert signoff, an official exam, or a field acceptance standard.

  • ACI Concrete Field Testing Technician—Grade I program

    Supports: Seven ASTM methods/practices; 55-item, one-hour closed-book written examination; 70% overall and 60% per method; actual performance examination; five-year certification and both exams for recertification.

    Limit: Use the linked JTA and current workbook for procedural details. Fees, available dates, and equipment practice must be confirmed with a sponsoring group.

    Source checked 2026-10-02

Editorial policy, reviewer status, and correction process

Primary source

Verify before you act

Exam policies, fees, references, and eligibility can change. HoldPoint is independent and uses American Concrete Institute as the authority for current program facts.

Official ACI source

Source checks and limitations are listed above. No expert approval is implied.