Helopat, I respectfully disagree with you. Even with test questions that are fairly straightforward you still have to know the information. Don't fault the FAA for telling you exactly what you need to know and then testing you accordingly. You are not allowed to bring any books into the test (perhaps because the FAA organizes all of the information you need to know in one book instead of CAR's, AIP, CAO and CAAP). You either know it or you don't. Granted, with a question bank of exactly the same questions on the test you can drill the questions and answers in your head. However, at that point, don't you possess the knowledge?
On the CASA IREX it is not enough to know the information. You have to be a good test taker as well. Being able to figure out trick questions doesn't make you a better pilot. Isn't the purpose of the test to assess your knowledge? Before taking the IREX I was told half the battle is reading the question. Read it thoroughly, read it again and then review it after you choose your answer. I did Bob Tait's self study book and thought it was great. You have to do all of the sample questions. As you are doing them you will think, "Why is he trying to trick me with this question?" It's because the IREX questions try to trick you. Bob's questions were spot on to the IREX questions I had and they put me in the mindset to answer trick questions.
Remember, a pass is all that matters on this test. Don't sweat any "deficiencies" listed on the second page. You are most likely deficient in answering trick questions than in your lack of knowledge. There are no trick questions when I'm in the air. I either know the information or I don't.
Shifting to another thought, why does CASA have separate IFR ratings for single and multi engine helicopters? (The FAA does not for helicopters)
Cheers!
Rocker