Examination Practice Questions And

Coast Guard Able Seaman – Limited Examination Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• What is the primary purpose of the chain stopper on an anchor

windlass?

• To guide the chain onto the gypsy
• To secure the anchor chain when the anchor is stowed
• To take the load off the windlass brake
• To prevent the anchor from fouling

Rationale: The chain stopper carries the strain of the anchor chain so the

windlass brake is not overloaded.

2. The “bitter end” of an anchor chain refers to:

• The section nearest the anchor
• The center swivel section 1 / 4

• The inboard end secured in the chain locker
• The detachable link segment

Rationale: The bitter end is where the chain is secured inside the chain

locker.

• What is the correct action when heaving a line to a dock?
• Throw the entire coil at once
• Throw downwind only
• Coil in the left hand and swing several turns with the right before

releasing

• Throw the standing part first

Rationale: This method gives control, distance, and prevents tangles when

sending a heaving line.

4. A line labeled “6 x 19 wire rope” indicates:

• 6 wires of 19 strands each
• 6 strands with 19 wires per strand
• 6 independent cores with 19 wraps
• 19 strands with 6 wires each

Rationale: Wire rope is designated by strands first, then wires per strand.

5. Chafing gear is used for:

• Increasing line elasticity
• Securing a line to a bitt
• Protecting a line from wear 2 / 4

• Preventing kinks in wire rope

Rationale: Chafing gear shields lines where they rub against surfaces.

6. A “spring line” is used primarily to:

• Keep the vessel from sinking
• Prevent forward or aft movement while moored
• Secure cargo
• Keep the vessel from rolling

Rationale: Springs restrain a ship’s longitudinal movement at a berth.

7. The most effective splice for joining two lines of unequal size is the:

• Back splice
• Short splice
• Long splice
• Eye splice

Rationale: Long splices maintain strength and work best with lines of

different diameters.

8. A bowline is preferred because it:

• Cannot be tied quickly
• Forms a fixed loop that will not slip
• Tightens permanently under strain
• Cannot be untied after loading

Rationale: The bowline makes a secure, non-slipping loop that remains

easy to untie. 3 / 4

• When rigging a bosun’s chair, what is essential?
• Use any knot
• Use only wire rope
• Use a safety line in addition to the working line
• Use square knots for security

Rationale: A separate safety line protects the worker if the primary line

fails.

10. On a buoyant work vest, retro-reflective tape is used to:

• Add flotation
• Increase visibility during search efforts
• Increase durability
• Mark ownership

Rationale: Reflective tape improves nighttime and low-light visibility for

rescuers.

11. The “free surface effect” is caused by:

• Water in deep tanks
• Heavy cargo
• Liquid shifting in a partially filled space
• High freeboard

Rationale: Unrestricted liquid movement reduces stability by moving the

center of gravity.

• / 4