Learning new Vocab From Context
Following Instructions
Jargon and Technical Terms
Reading & understanding Legal Documents
Identifying the main idea and key details
100

The word “mandatory” in a safety memo most likely means what?

Required or necessary

100

If directions say “Sign and return the form by Friday,” what should you do?

Sign the form and return it before Friday

100

What does “PPE” stand for in workplace safety documents?

Personal Protective Equipment

100

What kind of document might include policies, employee rights, and rules?

An employee handbook

100

What is the “main idea” of a paragraph?

The central point or message

200

In the sentence, “Employees must adhere to the new dress code,” what does “adhere to” mean?

Follow or obey

200

A memo says “Do not operate machinery unless authorized.” What does this tell you?

Only trained or approved employees may use it

200

In a maintenance manual, the term “calibrate” means what?

Adjust equipment for accurate operation

200

The word “shall” in a policy usually means what?

Something you are required to do

200

If a memo repeats the phrase “safety first,” what’s the likely main idea?

The company prioritizes safety

300

If a policy says “prohibited,” what does that mean?

Not allowed 

300

What should you do first when following a multi-step procedure?

Read all the directions before beginning

300

In an HR document, “compliance” means what?

Following rules, laws, or policies

300

What should you look for first when reading a contract?

The terms, conditions, and key obligations

300

How can you identify supporting details?

Look for facts or examples that explain the main idea

400

The word “protocol” in a workplace manual most closely means what?

A set of official rules or procedures

400

If a procedure says “Repeat Steps 1–3 until the light turns green,” when should you stop?

When the light turns green

400

In computer instructions, what does “reboot” mean?

Restart the system

400

If a rule says “Employees may appeal within 10 business days,” what does that mean?

You have 10 workdays to challenge a decision

400

In a workplace notice, what do bullet points often show?

Important supporting details or steps

500

In context, if a document says “employees should exercise discretion,” what does “discretion” mean?

Careful judgment or decision-making

500

Why is it important to follow each step in a sequence exactly as written?

To ensure safety, accuracy, and correct results

500

In a legal or technical document, “liability” most likely refers to what?

Legal responsibility or obligation

500

Why are legal documents often written in formal, precise language?

To avoid misunderstanding and ensure clarity in legal meaning

500

Why is finding the main idea important for the WorkKeys test?

It helps you understand the overall meaning and purpose of the passage