CDT Study Guide 2026

Everything you need to pass the CDT exam in one place: the exam format, every topic to study, real practice questions with explanations, flashcards, and full-length practice tests. Free, no sign-up needed.

๐Ÿ“‹ CDT Exam Format at a Glance

150
Questions
180 min
Time Limit
70%
Passing Score

๐Ÿ“š CDT Topics to Study (69)

Foundations of Dyslexia & Language-Based Learning Disabilities ยท 9 cardsIntervention Planning & Therapeutic Techniques ยท 9 cardsScreening & Progress Monitoring ยท 9 cardsStructured Literacy & Multisensory Instruction ยท 9 cardsAnatomy & Physiology Fundamentals ยท 7 cardsAnatomy & Physiology Fundamentals ยท 7 cardsAnatomy & Physiology Fundamentals ยท 7 cardsAnatomy & Physiology Fundamentals ยท 7 cardsDocumentation & Record Keeping ยท 7 cardsDocumentation & Record Keeping ยท 7 cardsDocumentation & Record Keeping ยท 7 cardsDocumentation & Record Keeping ยท 7 cardsEquipment Operation & Maintenance ยท 7 cardsEquipment Operation & Maintenance ยท 7 cardsEquipment Operation & Maintenance ยท 7 cardsEquipment Operation & Maintenance ยท 7 cardsFoundations of Dyslexia & Language-Based Learning Disabilities ยท 7 cardsFoundations of Dyslexia & Language-Based Learning Disabilities ยท 7 cardsFoundations of Dyslexia & Language-Based Learning Disabilities ยท 7 cardsFoundations of Dyslexia & Language-Based Learning Disabilities ยท 7 cardsIntervention Planning & Therapeutic Techniques ยท 7 cardsIntervention Planning & Therapeutic Techniques ยท 7 cardsIntervention Planning & Therapeutic Techniques ยท 7 cardsIntervention Planning & Therapeutic Techniques ยท 7 cardsMedical Ethics & Patient Rights ยท 7 cardsMedical Ethics & Patient Rights ยท 7 cardsMedical Ethics & Patient Rights ยท 7 cardsMedical Ethics & Patient Rights ยท 7 cardsPatient Assessment & Clinical Evaluation ยท 7 cardsPatient Assessment & Clinical Evaluation ยท 7 cards

โœ๏ธ Sample CDT Questions & Answers

1. In Shaywitz's research, which brain reading pathway is UNDERACTIVATED in readers with dyslexia during word recognition tasks?
โœ“ The posterior left-hemisphere occipito-temporal 'word form area'

Shaywitz's neuroimaging studies show underactivation of the left occipito-temporal region (the 'word form area' or 'brain's letterbox') in dyslexic readers.

2. Which of the following background history factors is most relevant to include in a dyslexia assessment intake?
โœ“ Family history of reading difficulties

Dyslexia has a strong genetic component, and a family history of reading difficulties is a significant risk factor to document.

3. Which of the following assessment domains is NOT typically included in a comprehensive dyslexia evaluation?
โœ“ Gross motor coordination

While co-occurring motor issues may be noted, gross motor coordination is not a core domain assessed in a standard dyslexia evaluation.

4. Onset-rime awareness involves:
โœ“ Recognizing that a syllable can be divided into its initial consonant(s) and the vowel-consonant unit that follows

Onset-rime awareness involves recognizing that syllables can be split into the onset (initial consonant or cluster) and the rime (the vowel and everything after it, e.g., 'c' + 'at' in 'cat').

5. A CDT working in a private practice setting should store physical student files in what manner?
โœ“ In a locked file cabinet with access limited to authorized staff

Physical records must be stored in a locked, secure location with access restricted to authorized personnel to protect student confidentiality.

6. Which practice best supports both infection control and a welcoming therapy environment for students with dyslexia?
โœ“ Maintaining clean, organized materials with a consistent between-session disinfection routine that students can observe

A visible, consistent cleaning routine maintains safety without making the environment feel clinical or unwelcoming to students.

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Your CDT Study Path
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CDT Study Guide 2026 โ€” Exam Format, Topics & Practice Questions