Master Carpenter Certification Exam

Master Carpenter Certification Exam Practice Test Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• Which of the following is the most accurate method for checking if a

floor is level?

• Using a steel ruler
• Using a folding square
• Using a spirit level
• Using a tape measure

Rationale: A spirit level allows you to measure the levelness of a

surface accurately, which is essential for precise carpentry work.

• When constructing a stair stringer, what is the standard rise-to-run

ratio for comfortable stair use?

• 6” rise / 10” run
• 7” rise / 11” run 1 / 4

• 8” rise / 9” run
• 9” rise / 12” run

Rationale: The 7” rise and 11” run ratio provides a comfortable and

safe step dimension in residential construction.

• Which type of joint is commonly used for framing corners of cabinets?
• Lap joint
• Dovetail joint
• Butt joint reinforced with screws or dowels
• Mortise and tenon joint

Rationale: Butt joints reinforced with screws or dowels are standard

for cabinet corners due to ease of assembly and strength.

• When working with hardwoods, which tool is recommended to avoid

tear-out during cutting?

• Standard handsaw
• Sharp crosscut saw or fine-tooth saw
• Circular saw with dull blade
• Jigsaw

Rationale: Hardwood requires sharp, fine-tooth saws to prevent

splintering and tear-out during cutting.

• What is the primary purpose of a dado cut in cabinetry?
• Decorative edge
• To house shelving or panels securely
• To reduce weight 2 / 4

• To create a tongue for joinery

Rationale: Dado cuts allow shelves or panels to fit securely into

cabinetry without additional fasteners.

• Which fastener is most suitable for attaching structural lumber in

outdoor construction?

• Standard steel nails
• Galvanized nails or screws
• Aluminum nails
• Plastic anchors

Rationale: Galvanized fasteners resist corrosion and are suitable for

outdoor exposure.

• When installing tongue-and-groove flooring, what is the best method

for minimizing gaps between boards?

• Using hammer only
• Tapping boards with a mallet and block
• Using nails only
• Using glue alone

Rationale: A mallet and tapping block allow boards to fit tightly

without damaging edges.

• In cabinet making, what is the main advantage of using plywood over

solid wood?

• Lower cost
• Easier to paint 3 / 4

• Dimensional stability and resistance to warping
• Better appearance

Rationale: Plywood resists shrinking and warping compared to solid

wood, making it ideal for cabinets.

• What is the recommended depth for a screw when fastening a wood

joint to ensure proper holding strength?

• 1/4 the thickness of wood
• At least 2/3 the thickness of the receiving piece
• Equal to the thickness of the wood
• 1/2 the thickness of the wood

Rationale: Screws should penetrate sufficiently into the receiving

piece to provide maximum strength without splitting the wood.

• Which of the following is a safe practice when operating a table

saw?

• Wearing loose clothing
• Using a push stick for small pieces
• Standing directly behind the blade
• Removing the blade guard

Rationale: Push sticks keep hands away from the blade, reducing the

risk of injury.

• What type of wood joint is considered the strongest for load-

bearing applications?

• Butt joint
• / 4