Soccer Officiating Rules and The Four-Question Method

Vocabulary flashcards covering soccer officiating rules on penalty kicks, fouls, and scenario analysis using the Four-Question Method.

GK Penalty Kick Disciplinary Sequence

The disciplinary rule for goalkeeper penalty kick offenses, where the first offense results in a warning and the next applicable offense results in a caution.

Stutter-Stepping

A kicker stutter-stepping during the run-up to the ball during a penalty kick, which is permitted.

Feinting After the Approach

Deliberately pretending to kick the ball once the kicker has completed the approach, which is not permitted, treated as unsporting conduct, and results in a caution.

Biting

One of the new areas emphasized for 2026-27 under fouls and direct free kicks.

The Four-Question Method

A process to use when analyzing a scenario question on an officiating test.

Step 1 — What happened?

The first step of the Four-Question Method, which requires identifying the actual action.

Step 2 — Is it an offense?

The second step of the Four-Question Method, which requires comparing the action with the rules.

Step 3 — What is the restart?

The third step of the Four-Question Method, identifying the proper restart, which is where many new officials make mistakes.

Step 4 — Is there misconduct?

The fourth step of the Four-Question Method, asking whether a caution, ejection, warning, or other disciplinary action is required.