Boot Camp Quiz…Are You Ready?

December 1, 2007
by SGT Michael Volkin

In my new book, The Ultimate Interactive Basic Training Workbook I cover hundreds of questions and answers to prepare recruits for basic training. Below is a quick self diagnosis so you can test your readiness.

1) If your Drill Sergeant tells you to fix your snake, what is he referring to?
A) The buttons on your uniform
B) Your fly/zipper
C) Your shoelace
D) The sling on your weapon

2) The letter “R” in the phonetic alphabet stands for:
A) Romeo
B) Rifle
C) Rotund
D) Ralph

3) A Drill Sergeants hat is called a ________ hat.
A) Campaign
B) Caveat
C) Kevlar
D) Boot

4) Motivational singing while marching is called what?
A) Alto belting
B) A cadence
C) Octave marching
D) Singing while marching

5) If a Drill Sergeant tells you to be in formation in 45 seconds, you should be there in:
A) 15 seconds
B) 45 seconds
C) One minute
D) Whenever you feel like it

The answers are below. As I state in both my basic training books, 90% of boot camp can be taught in the comfort of your own home. If you got any of the above questions wrong, you need to hit the books. It’s better to learn now on your own terms than at basic training under your Drill Sergeants terms.

SGT Michael Volkin is the author of The Ultimate Basic Training Guidebook and The Ultimate Interactive Basic Training Workbook, available in paperback, audio book and e-book format at his website.

Answers: 1)C 2)A 3)A 4)B 5)A