A TESDA CNC exam does not test obscure codes. It expects you to read a program using the universal core, the same codes that appear in almost every program worldwide. Here is the focused list to study. Treat it as a study list and confirm the exact competency standards with TESDA or your training center, since they define the assessment.
The core list
| Code | Meaning | Group |
|---|---|---|
G00 / G01 | Rapid positioning / linear feed | Motion |
G02 / G03 | Clockwise / counterclockwise arc | Motion |
G20 / G21 | Inch / millimeter units | Setup |
G90 / G91 | Absolute / incremental | Setup |
M03 / M04 / M05 | Spindle on CW / on CCW / stop | Spindle |
M08 / M09 | Coolant on / off | Coolant |
M06 | Tool change | Tool |
M00 / M30 | Program stop / end and rewind | Program |
A lathe assessment adds turning-specific codes such as G96/G97 for spindle speed mode, covered in CNC turning center G-code.
How to learn it
This is a finite list, which is exactly why recall practice works so well on it. Reading it once is not enough; you memorize it by retrieving each entry from memory, both directions. Drill it with the method in beginner CNC code practice, using the fuller common G-codes and common M-codes references. For the assessment itself, see TESDA CNC lathe practice. A free tool like G-Code Sprint drills exactly this list until it is automatic.
Bottom line
A TESDA CNC exam expects the universal core: motion, units, positioning, spindle, coolant, tool change, and program codes, plus turning codes on a lathe. Learn the finite list by recall both directions, and confirm the standards with TESDA.
Sources
- TESDA (Technical Education and Skills Development Authority)
- LinuxCNC G-code reference
- CNCCookbook: G-code and M-code cheat sheet
Frequently asked questions
What G-codes and M-codes are on a TESDA CNC exam?
The universal core: motion codes G00 to G03, units G20/G21, positioning G90/G91, spindle M03/M04/M05, coolant M08/M09, tool change M06, and program control M00/M30. Lathe assessments add turning codes like G96/G97. Confirm the exact standards with TESDA.
Do I need to memorize codes for the TESDA CNC exam?
You need fluent recall of this core, because reading a program under assessment is faster when the codes are automatic. The list is short and finite, which makes it realistic to know cold.
What is the best way to memorize the TESDA code list?
Active recall both directions, code to meaning and meaning to code, with review of your misses. A free tool like G-Code Sprint drills exactly this list so it becomes automatic before the assessment.
G-Code Sprint is a study and practice tool only. It is not affiliated with TESDA. Always follow your instructor, employer, machine manual, and shop safety procedures.