CDA Cheat Sheet 2026

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

1. After delivering a project, a client posts a negative review online that you believe is unfair. What is the most professional action? → Respond publicly with a calm, factual reply that invites further resolution offline
2. A decorative artist is asked to create a 'trompe l'oeil' (trick the eye) effect. Which of the following best describes what this technique achieves? → A realistic three-dimensional illusion painted on a flat surface
3. Which documentation practice best demonstrates ongoing professional competency for a CDA-certified artist? → Recording continuing education credits, certifications, and technique logs
4. What faux technique creates a soft, cloudy appearance by applying paint with a sea sponge in overlapping, irregular dabs? → Sponge painting
5. What is the recommended minimum number of distinct styles or techniques a comprehensive CDA portfolio should represent? → A variety that demonstrates versatility while maintaining a professional focus
6. How do professional associations contribute to evidence-based practice in the decorative arts? → By publishing practice guidelines derived from current research and expert consensus
7. Why is sanding important in surface preparation? → To remove gloss and ensure better paint adhesion
8. A decorative artist includes a trademarked logo in a custom decorative piece for a private residence. Which legal doctrine might protect this use? → Nominative fair use for identification purposes
9. A CDA artist is preparing a digital design for a laser cutter to create decorative stencils. Which file format does laser-cutting software typically require? → SVG or DXF
10. Which marketing channel is most effective for showcasing decorative art work visually to potential clients? → Social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest
11. In digital pattern design, what is a 'clipping mask' used for? → Restricting the visibility of one layer to the shape of another
12. Which document is most important to provide a client BEFORE beginning a commissioned decorative painting project? → A written contract outlining scope, timeline, and payment terms
13. When photographing completed work for your portfolio, what must you obtain from the client first? → Written permission to use images for marketing purposes
14. Which color model is used for digital screens and should be selected when creating artwork intended for digital display? → RGB
15. When planning a decorative project that involves gilding, the artist must account for which additional step not required in standard painting? → Applying size (adhesive) and allowing it to reach proper tack before laying leaf
16. How do CDA professionals contribute to advancing their field? → By sharing knowledge, conducting research, and participating in professional discourse
17. In a wood graining faux technique, a 'rocker' or 'heart grainer' tool is used primarily to create what effect? → Heart-shaped pore clusters and cathedral grain patterns
18. The term 'value' in decorative painting color theory refers to: → The lightness or darkness of a color
19. When creating a digital color palette for a decorative project, what is a HEX code used for? → Identifying a color with a six-character alphanumeric code for digital use
20. Which of the following best describes 'value' in color theory? → The relative lightness or darkness of a color
21. In faux finishing, what is 'open time' referring to? → The time a glaze remains workable before drying
22. A decorative artist wants to create a smooth, even base coat on a canvas. Which tool produces the most uniform coverage? → A foam roller or wide flat brush
23. In evidence-based practice, which level of evidence is generally considered the highest quality for informing clinical or professional decisions? → Systematic reviews and meta-analyses of multiple RCTs
24. Which term describes the tendency for a researcher to unconsciously seek or interpret information in a way that confirms their pre-existing beliefs? → Confirmation bias
25. In a process improvement context, what does a 'checklist audit' accomplish for a decorative painting team? → Ensures each step of the process is completed consistently by all team members
26. Which element of design is described as a moving point — the path created when a point is in motion? → Line
27. A decorative artist is digitizing hand-painted textures to use as Photoshop brushes. What scan resolution should they use to capture fine details? → 600 DPI or higher
28. When mixing two decorative paint products from different manufacturers to achieve a custom color, the primary chemical risk is: → Unexpected chemical reaction producing toxic gases, separation, or loss of adhesion
29. Which principle describes the repetition of elements? → Rhythm
30. Which medium is used to extend the open (working) time of acrylic paint without significantly affecting its color or finish? → Retarder medium