The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Computer-Based Test (CBT) is the initial hurdle in your journey to becoming a Transportation Security Officer (TSO). Success on this exam determines whether you advance to the next stages of the hiring process. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of all TSA CBT test variations, including a free TSA CBT practice test featuring 25 sample questions and answers, covering both the newer test format and the traditional X-Ray version. These questions are carefully selected from our full TSA CBT test practice to accurately reflect the challenges you’ll face in the actual TSA exam.
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Navigating the New TSA CBT Test: Sample Questions
The latest version of the TSA CBT test, typically lasting between 25 and 45 minutes, evaluates your cognitive abilities through three distinct question types: 2D to 3D shape folding, shape matching, and dot connection. These sections are designed to assess critical cognitive skills vital for a successful TSO, with a strong emphasis on visual information processing.
2D to 3D Shape Folding Questions
These questions challenge your spatial reasoning. You’ll be presented with a 2D shape, often marked with numbers or labels, and asked to visualize its 3D form after folding. Your task is to match numbered faces on the 2D shape to corresponding letters on the folded 3D object.
Let’s try a sample question to test your skills:
A sample 2D to 3D shape folding question from a TSA test study guide.
A= ?
B= ?
C= ?
Answer:
A=3, B=2, C=1
Explanation:
Face 3 is the only face that can logically wrap around to form the circles, thus A=3. Face 2 is adjacent to face ‘x’ in the 2D shape and is vertically oriented to ‘x’ in the 3D shape, making B=2. Face 1 is determined by considering the position of ‘x’ relative to the niche; since ‘x’ is to the left, face 1 must be the upper base, hence C=1.
Mastering figure folding requires a systematic approach, keen attention to detail, and a solid grasp of 3D shapes. Our comprehensive TSA CBT PrepPack, a valuable resource beyond typical free materials or a basic Tsa Test Study Guide Amazon might offer, provides numerous examples and strategies to develop a methodical workflow for these spatial reasoning questions.
Shape Match Questions
Shape Matching questions assess your visual acuity and speed. You’re given a target shape and must quickly identify its match from a series of similar shapes. The challenge is that the matching shape may be rotated or scaled. Remember, speed is a factor, as faster response times can improve your overall score, though there is no strict time limit per question.
Try this example to gauge your shape matching speed:
A shape matching question example for TSA test preparation.
Answer:
The correct answer is B.
Here’s a more complex example:
A more complex shape matching question from a TSA practice test.
Answer:
The correct answer is E.
Strategy for Speed:
For rapid solving, use elimination. For example, in the second question, focus on the top-left pattern (yellow and red lines). Quickly scan the options; only option E contains this pattern, allowing for immediate elimination of others. If multiple options shared this pattern, move clockwise to the next pattern to differentiate further. This technique is crucial for time management, a skill often honed through dedicated practice resources not always available in a basic TSA test study guide Amazon.
Connect the Dots Questions
In this section, you’ll see numbers and/or letters scattered on the screen. You’ll first be instructed to connect the dots numerically (1-2-3…), then alphabetically (A-B-C…), and finally, both sequentially (1-A-2-B-3-C…). While seemingly straightforward, achieving a high score demands both speed and accuracy.
A connect-the-dots style question for the TSA CBT test.
Full-Length TSA CBT Practice Tests: Maximize Your Preparation
Success on the shorter TSA Exam hinges on speed and precision. Our comprehensive preparation materials, exceeding what a simple TSA test study guide Amazon might provide, are specifically designed to sharpen these skills. We offer complete, timed practice tests created by experienced psychometric experts. Our TSA Test Prep also includes practice for the legacy X-ray and English TSA tests, ensuring you’re prepared for any test version you might encounter:
- New TSA Test Practice: 6 shape folding, 4 image matching, and 5 connect the dots practice tests.
- X-ray & English TSA Test Practice: 14 X-ray practice tests with item specifics, guidance on identifying item characteristics and signs, and 47 extra drills for vocabulary, writing, and grammar.
⭐ 4 (756 reviews) • 3,000+ already enrolled
Real User Testimonials:
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Maia E.
Although these testing materials included the English comp and X-ray practice mostly, it did also have some of the new test materials. I am glad I did it all. This was well worth the money. I went into the test prepared for both. Also, it got me ready for the pressures of testing. I don’t think I would have passed the first time without it. I just got my tentative job offer letter so onward to the next steps! There does need to be a few more practice questions for the new style test however.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Connor M.
Gave me much more confidence on the material that would be on the test, and I did in fact Pass my exam! The practice test are extremely helpful to get in repetitions of what you might find. Just remember, you don’t know what version of the exam you will receive, so studying all they have to give is helpful. I discovered my Version was 2D-3D shapes and speed image matching so I didn’t have any X-Ray or grammar questions, so touching base on all the helpful material is a must.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Migdalia D.
Excellent study guide made everything so much easier.
Understanding the Traditional TSA CBT: X-Ray & English Sections
The original TSA CBT test format assesses different skills, primarily those directly related to the TSO role. This version includes an X-Ray Object Recognition Test and an English section.
TSA CBT Test Sample Questions – X-Ray & English
The TSA CBT X-Ray and English test is a longer, 2.5-hour exam, divided into five sessions with breaks. It contains 100 X-ray Object Recognition Test (ORT) images and 50-60 English section questions, administered at a TSA testing center.
Free TSA X-Ray Practice Test: Sharpen Your Object Recognition Skills
The TSA X-Ray test, also used by GardaWorld, often causes anxiety among candidates. This section requires rapid identification of objects in X-ray images, determining whether a given object is present based on instructions. Objects include forbidden items (knives, weapons) and everyday items (toys, kitchenware, electronics). Crucially, you have only 15 seconds per question on the actual test. A TSA test study guide Amazon might offer basic examples, but focused practice is key.
X-Ray Sample Questions: Can You Spot the Objects?
Let’s begin with a sample question. Can you identify a Wrench in this X-ray image?
An X-ray image sample question from a TSA practice test, asking to identify a wrench.
Answer:
Yes, a Wrench is present in this X-ray scan.
The same X-ray image with the wrench highlighted.
Notice the Wrench is blue, indicating metal.
X-Ray Color Density Analysis:
X-ray images use color to represent material density:
- Blue: Dense materials like metal, hard plastics, and weapon parts.
- Green: Less dense materials like plastics and lighter alloys.
- Orange: Least dense materials, mostly organic matter.
💡 Remember, weapons can appear in varying colors (green, orange) depending on their material density, even though they are often metallic.
Next question: Can you identify a Kitchen Tool in this X-ray image?
Another X-ray image sample question for TSA test preparation, asking to identify a kitchen tool.
Answer:
Yes, a Kitchen Tool is present.
The X-ray image with the kitchen tool highlighted.
This Kitchen tool is partially blue and partially orange, indicating a combination of metal and wood.
Continue practicing with various items. Our comprehensive materials offer diverse and challenging items, categorized by type (Toys, Pens, Keys, Shoes, etc.) to refine your skills beyond a generic TSA test study guide Amazon.
X-Ray Questions – Toys, Pens, Keys, and Shoes
Can you spot a toy in this X-ray image?
X-ray image question asking to identify a toy in luggage.
Answer:
Yes, a toy is present.
The same luggage X-ray with a dinosaur toy highlighted.
In this case, a dinosaur toy made of plastic (green-blue) is present, blending with other items. Identifying unique outlines, like the dinosaur’s back, can be helpful for irregular objects.
💡 Avoid Color Memorization: Colors can vary based on material and density. Focus on shapes and characteristics instead.
Can you identify a pen in the X-ray image below?
X-ray image question from a TSA practice test focusing on identifying a pen.
Answer:
Yes, a pen is in the scan, appearing green due to its plastic composition.
The X-ray image with the pen highlighted.
Can you identify a key in the following X-ray image?
X-ray image question asking to identify a key.
Answer:
No key is present in this scan.
Certainty in Observation: Metal keys would appear blue. Our practice tests, like the actual TSA CBT, include images without concealed items. Memorizing item traits is crucial for quickly ruling out objects.
Some images are more challenging. Can you identify a shoe in this X-ray image?
X-ray practice test question focused on shoe identification.
Answer:
Yes, a shoe is present.
X-ray image with a shoe highlighted.
The sole (dense rubber) appears bright green, while the leather top is light green.
💡 Luggage Scanning Practice Tips
Employ a systematic search method. Try snake-like movements across the bag or divide it into four sections, examining each. Always check luggage outlines for hidden items.
Guided TSA X-Ray Test Practice and Simulations
Our comprehensive TSA test prep package offers extensive tips and guidance for X-ray questions, far beyond a basic TSA test study guide Amazon. It includes practice tests with varied X-ray images, English questions, and the shorter TSA test format.
Now, let’s test your skills with another set of questions, focusing on different items:
X-Ray Questions – Water Bottles, Kitchen Tools, Working Tools
Can you identify a water bottle in this X-ray image?
X-ray image question asking to identify a water bottle.
Answer:
No water bottle is present.
Can you identify a kitchen tool in this X-ray image?
Another X-ray image question focused on kitchen tool identification.
Answer:
Yes, a spatula is present, appearing orange (wood – organic material).
X-ray image with the spatula highlighted.
Can you identify a working tool in this X-ray?
X-ray image question asking about a working tool.
Answer:
No working tool is present.
Items like water bottles are often distinct. However, working tools can be varied and challenging. Our TSA Preparation Pack provides guidelines and item details to help you recognize different tools effectively in the X-ray test, offering more in-depth preparation than a general TSA test study guide Amazon.
Let’s move on to watches, electronics, and flashlights.
Watches, Electronics, and Flashlights
Can you identify a watch in this X-ray image?
X-ray image question asking to identify a watch.
Answer:
Yes, a watch is present.
X-ray image with a watch highlighted.
Watches are typically metal, so focus on blue areas for quicker identification.
Can you identify an electronic device in this X-ray image?
X-ray image question about identifying an electronic device.
Answer:
No electronic device is present.
💡 Notice the metal water bottle. Always follow instructions and look for the specific item requested.
Electronic Item Traits to Look For:
- Plugs: Recognize different plug types (EU, US, AU, UK).
- Colors: Metal components (chips, batteries, wires) within plastic casings often appear green or blue.
X-Ray Questions – Weapons
Can you identify a knife in this X-ray image?
X-ray image question focused on knife identification.
Answer:
Yes, a utility knife is present (closed in this image).
X-ray image with a utility knife highlighted.
Analyze shapes and colors separately to identify items like knives.
💡 Knives on the TSA CBT: Be prepared to identify various knives – utility knives, large knives, nail files, scissors. Our comprehensive TSA Preparation Pack covers these extensively.
Can you identify a gun in the X-ray image below?
X-ray image question asking about gun identification.
Answer:
No gun is present.
💡 Tips for Identifying Guns in X-Ray Images
Guns vary in size and type, but common features aid identification:
- Slide: Densest part, usually darkest blue.
- Trigger: May be visible depending on the angle.
- Grip: Includes space for a magazine.
Can you identify a grenade in this X-ray?
X-ray image question for grenade identification.
Answer:
Yes, a grenade is present.
X-ray image with a grenade highlighted.
Look for key grenade features: lever and safety pin. This grenade is masked by metal items, appearing black due to combined density.
💡 Don’t Rely Solely on Grenade Color
Grenade bodies are often green or blue, but identifying parts is more reliable than color, as colors can vary across machines. Learn to recognize different grenade structures for test readiness, going beyond basic TSA test study guide Amazon tips.
Additional Tips for X-Ray Questions
- Running out of time? If unsure and time is short, assume the item is not present. Only mark ‘Yes’ if you clearly see it.
- Different X-Ray Colors? Color variations (or black & white) don’t change the principles. Denser materials (metal) are darker; organic materials are brighter.
- Unfamiliar Objects? The TSA CBT may include unfamiliar everyday items. Preview each item before questions. Learn its traits, but remember the preview is an example – expect variations in the actual questions.
Congratulations on completing the free X-Ray section preparation! Now, let’s prepare for the English section, vital for TSA success and airport roles.
Free TSA CBT English Test Practice: Enhance Your Language Skills
The TSA screener English test (TSA Writing Skills Assessment) is multiple-choice, typically covering Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary, and Written Communication. Your test may include some or all of these, but practice in all areas is recommended for full preparation, exceeding what a basic TSA test study guide Amazon might offer.
Reading Comprehension
Read the passage and answer the questions:
A growing body of research suggests that the regular, high-level use of more than one language may actually improve early brain development. According to several different studies, a command of two or more languages aggrandizes the ability to focus in the face of distraction, decide between competing alternatives, and disregard irrelevant information. These essential skills are grouped together, known in brain terms as ‘executive function’ and research suggests they develop ahead of time in bilingual children. While no one has yet identified the exact mechanism by which bilingualism boosts brain development, the advantage likely stems from the bilingual’s need to continually select the right language for a given situation.
1. The research suggests that ‘executive function’ increases with the number of languages mastered.
- True on the basis of the passage.
- False on the basis of the passage.
- Not possible to say if the statement is true or false on the basis of the passage.
Answer:
The correct answer is (3).
Explanation: The passage discusses differences between monolingual and bilingual children but doesn’t extend to comparing those with more than two languages.
2. Which one of the following provides the best summary of the main point of the passage?
- It’s recommended to know more than one language.
- Bilingualism has significant advantages.
- Bilinguals have difficulties selecting the right language
- Bilingualism contributes to the development of ‘executive functions’.
Answer:
The correct answer is (4).
Explanation: Option 4 directly connects bilingualism and ‘executive functions’, the central theme. Other options are too broad or misrepresent the passage’s focus.
💡 Reading Comprehension Tips
- Read questions before the passage to focus your reading.
- Answer easiest questions first (e.g., word meaning, statement relationships).
- Base answers only on the text. Disregard external assumptions.
- For True/False/Cannot Say, ‘cannot say’ is often the answer for difficult questions.
Written Communication Questions (Fault Finding)
Identify the error type in each sentence:
3. Mrs. Qualitrix’s meeting has been postponed, due to a doctor’s appointment.
- Grammar
- Spelling
- Punctuation and capitalization
- No error
Answer:
The correct answer is (3) – punctuation and capitalization.
Explanation: A comma incorrectly separates the subject and verb. Correct sentence: “Mrs. Qualitrix’s meeting has been postponed due to a doctor’s appointment.”
4. The heat of the desert affected the traveler greatly, and he regretted not leaving with the professor whom had offered him a ride to the city.
- Grammar
- Spelling
- Punctuation and capitalization
- No error
Answer:
The correct answer is (1) – Grammar.
Explanation: “Whom” is misused. “Who” should be used when referring to the subject (“professor”). Correct: “…professor who had offered him a ride…”
Common Grammar Mistakes to Know:
- Incorrect comma usage.
- Pronoun disagreement (e.g., “Every TSA agent must wear their own badge.” – should be “his or her”).
- Apostrophe errors.
- Sentence fragments (lacking subject and verb).
- Unclear antecedents (e.g., “The TSO found the passenger’s Swiss knife, and he was surprised.” – unclear who ‘he’ is).
- Spelling mix-ups (you’re/your, to/too, there/their, etc.).
- Capitalization errors.
Vocabulary Questions
5. Pecuniary most nearly means:
- Affection
- Scant
- Unique
- Monetary
Answer:
The correct answer is (4).
Explanation: Pecuniary relates to money or finance.
6. IMPERIOUS is the opposite of…
- Arrogant
- Moody
- Subservient
- Quiet
- Stormy
Answer:
The correct answer is (3).
Explanation: Imperious means domineering or haughty; subservient is the antonym.
💡 Synonym and Antonym Question Tips:
- Eliminate synonymous answer choices – they are unlikely to be correct.
- Analyze word prefixes and suffixes for meaning clues (e.g., “de-” means reverse, “in-” means not).
- In antonym questions, consider positive/negative connotations to eliminate options quickly.
The English section demands different skills than the X-Ray section. Our full TSA Test Prep offers more texts, practice questions, tests, guides, and tips for excelling in this section, going beyond what a basic TSA test study guide Amazon provides.
Get Comprehensive Practice for Both TSA CBT Test Versions
Our preparation materials are designed to maximize your speed and accuracy for the short TSA Exam and enhance your X-ray image analysis skills for the traditional version. We offer customized, full-length practice tests developed by psychometric experts. Our TSA Test Prep covers both the newer and legacy versions:
- Newer TSA Test Practice (Aptitude): 6 Shape folding + 3 extra, 4 image matching, 5 connect the dots practice tests.
- TSA X-Ray & English Test Practice: 14 X-ray practice tests with item specifics and tips, 47 drills for vocabulary, writing, and grammar, and 7 practice tests for the newer format.
⭐ 4 (756 reviews) • 3,000+ already enrolled
User Testimonials:
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Maia E.
Although these testing materials included the English comp and X-ray practice mostly, it did also have some of the new test materials. I am glad I did it all. This was well worth the money. I went into the test prepared for both. Also, it got me ready for the pressures of testing. I don’t think I would have passed the first time without it. I just got my tentative job offer letter so onward to the next steps! There does need to be a few more practice questions for the new style test however.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Connor M.
Gave me much more confidence on the material that would be on the test, and I did in fact Pass my exam! The practice test are extremely helpful to get in repetitions of what you might find. Just remember, you don’t know what version of the exam you will receive, so studying all they have to give is helpful. I discovered my Version was 2D-3D shapes and speed image matching so I didn’t have any X-Ray or grammar questions, so touching base on all the helpful material is a must.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Migdalia D.
Excellent study guide made everything so much easier.
For more vocabulary practice, also see our Free Wonderlic Test Practice.
Understanding the TSA Hiring Process Beyond the CBT
Prepare for the subsequent steps in the TSA hiring process with these resources:
TSA CBT Hiring Process Guide
Airport Assessment
Medical Evaluation
Drug Test
Background Check
Ready Pool
Orientation
Training
If you’re unsure about your test, check our Civil Service practice or contact us for personalized guidance.
Page Contents
Free TSA CBT Test Practice & Guide
New TSA CBT Test Sample Questions
TSA CBT Test Sample Questions- X-Ray & English
Get More Practice for Both TSA CBT Test Versions
Find Out What to Expect in the Rest of the TSA Hiring Process
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