IAC Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield IAC facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. How should an IAC-certified coach handle a situation where a client's goal shifts significantly mid-engagement? → Revisit the coaching agreement and co-create updated goals reflecting the new direction
2. A coach realizes mid-engagement that a client needs therapy, not coaching. The ethical course of action is to: → Discuss the observation with the client and recommend a therapist
3. Which behavior by a coach most directly upholds the IAC value of integrity? → Accurately representing credentials, experience, and methodologies to prospective clients
4. In a coaching context, 'reframing' is best defined as: → Offering an alternative perspective that shifts the meaning of a situation
5. In the OSKAR coaching model, what does the 'K' stand for? → Know-how
6. Which NLP-based performance strategy involves mentally rehearsing success by visualizing a desired outcome in vivid sensory detail? → Future Pacing
7. Which of the following is a 'solution-focused' question commonly used in coaching? → 'When was a time this problem was less severe, and what was different?'
8. The Co-Active Coaching model emphasizes that clients are which of the following? → Naturally creative, resourceful, and whole
9. The acronym WOOP (used in mental contrasting) stands for: → Wish, Outcome, Obstacle, Plan
10. Which research design is considered the gold standard for establishing causal relationships in coaching effectiveness studies? → Randomized controlled trial (RCT)
11. Which element distinguishes the FUEL model from GROW in its coaching conversation structure? → FUEL begins with understanding the current state before framing the topic
12. Which action best demonstrates professional accountability under IAC standards? → Referring a client outside your competence to a more qualified professional
13. In the IAC coaching framework, 'presence' in group coaching means the coach: → Is fully attentive, open, and responsive to what is happening in the group in real time
14. What is the purpose of a 'bottom-line' question such as 'What do you most need to walk away with today?' → To help the client identify the core priority for the current session
15. A client says, 'I guess I could try harder.' What is the most effective coach response to explore that statement? → 'What would trying harder look like for you?'
16. According to IAC coaching principles, when should a coach refrain from asking a question? → When a reflective silence or observation would better serve the client's processing
17. What distinguishes a 'powerful question' from a routine coaching question per IAC standards? → It evokes insight, shifts perspective, or opens new possibilities for the client
18. In group supervision, a coach dominates discussion with lengthy case presentations. The supervisor's BEST response is to: → Interrupt and redirect in the moment by naming the group dynamic and inviting other voices
19. Which of the following best supports client-centered communication? → The coach actively listens and builds on the client’s ideas
20. What is the function of feedback in coaching performance? → It highlights areas for growth and success
21. An IAC coach is transitioning from in-person to fully virtual delivery. Which foundational technology infrastructure element is most critical to address first? → Reliable high-speed internet connection with sufficient upload bandwidth
22. Which positive psychology intervention has the strongest empirical support for increasing long-term well-being, according to meta-analytic research? → Counting blessings/gratitude practices and using signature strengths in new ways
23. When using a Wheel of Life assessment with a client, the IAC-aligned next step after scoring is to: → Ask the client what they notice and what feels most important to address
24. A coach uses the 'Best Possible Self' exercise with a client. What is the primary purpose of this intervention? → To help the client envision and connect with their ideal future self
25. A client says they want to 'be more successful.' What is the most effective next question? → 'What does success look like specifically for you?'
26. When a client's body language contradicts their words, what is the IAC-aligned response? → Gently name the observation and invite the client to reflect on it
27. A coach notices the client consistently avoids discussing a specific area of their business. The most coaching-aligned response is to: → Gently name the pattern and invite the client to explore it
28. A coach receives a GDPR data subject access request from a European client. What should the coach's digital practice management system enable in this situation? → The ability to export or delete all personally identifiable data belonging to that client
29. A group coaching participant repeatedly gives advice to peers instead of sharing their own experience. The coach should: → Gently redirect by inviting the participant to share from their own experience or feelings
30. A coach applies the WOOP method (Wish, Outcome, Obstacle, Plan) with a client. Which psychological mechanism does WOOP leverage, according to its research base? → Mental contrasting, which activates energization only when success is feasible