Certified Archivist Exam Practice

Certified Archivist Exam Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• Which of the following best describes the primary purpose of an

archives?

• To store all documents indefinitely
• To provide unrestricted access to all materials
• To preserve records of enduring value for research and

accountability

• To serve as a library for general publications

Rationale: Archives are intended to preserve records with long-term

value, not everything indiscriminately.

2. The principle of provenance requires that:

• All records be organized by subject
• Records be stored by format 1 / 4

• Records be kept according to their originating office or creator
• Records be digitized for easy access

Rationale: Provenance emphasizes maintaining records in their

original context and creator relationship.

• Which of the following is considered a primary source?
• A textbook summarizing events
• A government census report from 1900
• An encyclopedia entry
• A modern journal article interpreting historical events

Rationale: Primary sources are original records or firsthand accounts.

4. The term "fonds" in archival science refers to:

• A collection of unrelated documents
• A single record
• All the records organically created and accumulated by a particular

entity

• A published book series

Rationale: Fonds represent the whole body of records created by an

organization or individual.

5. A finding aid is used primarily to:

• Digitize collections
• Store records
• Describe and provide access to archival materials
• Replace original records 2 / 4

Rationale: Finding aids guide users to relevant archival materials

efficiently.

• Which of the following is the most important factor in determining the

long-term preservation of paper records?

• Color of ink
• Acid content of paper
• Font type
• Number of pages

Rationale: Acidic paper deteriorates faster, so pH is a key

preservation factor.

7. A records retention schedule is intended to:

• Dispose of all records immediately
• Digitize records
• Specify how long records must be kept and when they can be

destroyed

• Store records alphabetically

Rationale: Retention schedules provide legal and operational

guidance for record lifecycles.

• What is the primary purpose of appraisal in archival management?
• To increase the number of records
• To determine the long-term value of records
• To reorganize records alphabetically
• To provide public access 3 / 4

Rationale: Appraisal identifies records worthy of permanent

preservation.

• Which of the following is a common method of arranging archival

materials?

• Alphabetically by color
• Chronologically by subject
• By provenance and original order
• Randomly

Rationale: Maintaining provenance and original order preserves

context and authenticity.

10. In archival terms, “accessioning” refers to:

• Cataloging library books
• Digitizing collections
• The formal process of accepting and documenting materials into

an archive

• Destroying duplicates

Rationale: Accessioning ensures that materials enter the archival

repository with proper documentation.

• What is the difference between archives and libraries?
• Libraries store digital material only
• Archives are always publicly accessible
• Archives preserve unique records, while libraries collect published

works

• / 4