Updated April 2026 · 15 min read
AFH 1 Chapter-by-Chapter Breakdown
Air Force Handbook 1 has 24 chapters, but only 15 are testable for E-5 and 17 for E-6 in the 2026 cycle. Here's what each chapter covers, who needs to study it, and what to focus on.
Covers the Air Force core values (Integrity First, Service Before Self, Excellence in All We Do), the Airman's Creed, warrior ethos, and standards of professional conduct. This is foundational material that appears on every PFE.
Air Force organizational structure, chain of command, MAJCOM missions, and joint operations. Know the hierarchy from flight level to HAF and how combatant commands work.
The enlisted force structure, roles and responsibilities of each rank, mentoring, PME, and the Enlisted Evaluation System. Heavy A-depth content here — expect multiple questions.
EPBs (formerly EPRs), awards and decorations, feedback systems, and performance assessments. Know the difference between OPR and EPB feedback cycles.
How WAPS works, promotion cycles, TIG/TIS points, SKT/PFE scoring, and the promotion board process. Yes — you're studying for a test about the test.
Leave and pass policies, assignments, separations, retirements, and casualty assistance. New for E-5 in 2026 — was previously E-6 only.
Comptroller responsibilities, budget processes, resource management, and financial services. New for E-5 in 2026.
Organizational culture, change management, continuous process improvement, and strategic planning. E-6 only — not required for E-5 testers.
Supervision, counseling, mentoring, and how to develop subordinates. Leadership-heavy content that ties directly into SJT scenarios.
Self-assessment, goal setting, time management, and professional development. Overlaps with SJT competencies around self-awareness.
Creative thinking, innovation, and problem-solving methodologies. E-6 only.
CBRN defense, attack response procedures, shelter-in-place, and force protection conditions (FPCON). New for E-5 in 2026.
Information security, OPSEC, personnel security, and cybersecurity fundamentals. Know classification levels and handling procedures.
Ethics rules, fraud/waste/abuse, gifts, political activity restrictions, and off-duty conduct standards. Heavily tested — often 3-4 questions.
Progressive discipline, administrative actions, Article 15, courts-martial, and the UCMJ. Know the difference between non-judicial punishment and judicial actions.
Physical fitness standards, PT test components, body composition requirements, and readiness programs.
Military customs, courtesies, honors, flag protocol, and professional relationships. Often the easiest chapter to master — straightforward recall material.
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