Tips for Taking the CPF Tests

The Hands On design portion of the CPF is a straight forward assessment of a designer's core skills and knowledge of the standards set forth in the CPF Resource Manual. Be sure to know these core standards to ensure high scores on evaluations. The following tips are based on what is commonly seen at any CPF testing site.

Do's:

~ Plan ahead for your testing! Be well rested and nourished, arrive early, and THINK POSITIVE!

~ Carefully plan your tool kit. Refer to you Study Guide and CPF correspondence. Commonly forgotten items might include a watering can, a hand towel, stem tape, waterproof tape, etc…

~ Upon entering the design room find your spot with your manual number. Carefully assess your materials. First, look for quality and quantity, you will be allowed to trade items PRIOR to beginning the test. Second, look at the orders you have been given and plan the best use of those materials.

~ STUDY THAT BOOK! It is critical to your success to really spend some time going over the methods and text in the design section. Even if you are an experienced designer you are required to know the core standards set forth in the manual.

Don'ts:

~ Don't be careless with your mechanics! Evaluators are very critical of debris or foliage below the water level in vase work, of tape showing on foam work, wood picks showing, wire showing, etc.

~ Don't assume that you can just show up and pass. It takes work to adjust to a preset core standard in an industry with a high level of creativity.

~ Don't be intimidated by the process. Do the work it takes to grow as a floral retailer and make a difference in this industry.

~ Don't leave unfinished details, foam showing, pollen anthers, broken tips etc.

~ Don't lose track of your color harmony, visual pathway, focal point etc. Know those principles and elements!