What are two Cabinet-level positions?

Why This Matters

For this question, you must name two Cabinet-level positions. There are many correct answers because the Cabinet has 16 members, including the Vice President. You do not need to memorize all of them, just pick two that are easy for you to remember and practice saying them clearly.

The Cabinet positions cover the major areas that the federal government manages. For example, the Secretary of Defense handles military and national security matters. The Secretary of State manages foreign affairs and relationships with other countries. The Secretary of the Treasury oversees the nation's finances. The Attorney General leads the Department of Justice and is the country's top law enforcement official. Each of these leaders runs a large department with thousands of employees.

Some positions are easier to remember than others. Many test-takers find it helpful to pick two that relate to topics they care about personally. If you have children in school, you might remember the Secretary of Education. If you are interested in healthcare, you might remember the Secretary of Health and Human Services. Choose two that feel natural and meaningful to you, and practice saying them until they come easily.

Key Facts

• You need to name any two Cabinet-level positions
• Acceptable answers include: Secretary of State, Secretary of Defense, Secretary of the Treasury, Secretary of Education, Secretary of Homeland Security, Attorney General, and many more
• The Vice President is also considered a Cabinet-level position
• There are 15 executive departments plus the Vice President
• The Attorney General heads the Department of Justice, this title is different from the "Secretary of" pattern

Common Mistakes

• Naming positions that are not Cabinet-level, such as "FBI Director" or "CIA Director"
• Only naming one position when the question asks for two
• Saying "Secretary of War", this title was changed to "Secretary of Defense" in 1947

Study Tip

Pick your two favorites and stick with them. A safe and easy pair to remember is "Secretary of State" and "Secretary of Defense." These are two of the most well-known positions. Practice saying them together: "Secretary of State and Secretary of Defense." Say it five times right now, and you will not forget.