Condensed Overview of 6 Topical Areas Covered by the Exam: 1. Constitutional underpinnings of government including organization, checks and balances, separation of powers, and theoretical perspectives 2. Political beliefs and behaviors of government leaders, individuals, and the media 3. Political parties, interest groups, mass media, and the mechanisms that allow citizens to communicate interests and concerns 4. Powers, organization, and relationships between national government institutions including Congress, the presidency, and the courts 5. Formation, enactment, and implementation of public policy 6. Civil rights and civil liberties including their development and corresponding impact