Motor, Grounding, and Calculation Bootcamp
These are the areas most likely to create false confidence. Students think they know the trade, then the exam asks a rule-context question.
Motor Split
Before solving a motor question, ask what is being sized:
- Branch-circuit conductors: usually Article 430.22 pattern
- Overload protection: Article 430.32 pattern, where 115%/125% confusion appears
- Branch short-circuit and ground-fault protection: Article 430.52
- Feeder with multiple motors: Article 430.24
- Disconnect: Article 430.102 and related rules
Memory hook: motor questions are five different questions wearing the same hard hat.
Grounding Split
Before choosing a table, ask what conductor you are sizing:
- GEC: grounding electrode conductor, usually 250.66
- EGC: equipment grounding conductor, usually 250.122
- Grounded conductor: neutral, not an equipment ground
- Bonding jumper: connects metal parts for continuity
Memory hook: GEC goes to the dirt; EGC goes with the circuit.
Calculation Reps
Daily reps should include:
- Ohm law
- Single-phase VA
- Three-phase current
- Voltage drop
- Continuous load 125%
- Motor conductor 125%
- Motor overload percentage condition
- Box fill count
- Conduit fill table path
The app should score setup separately from arithmetic. Many students can multiply; they just multiply the wrong thing.