- A
The node is unreachable
Why wrong: The taint 'node.kubernetes.io/unreachable' indicates the node was unreachable, but the event also mentions insufficient memory on other nodes. The pod is pending due to both the taint and memory.
- B
The pod has a memory request that cannot be fulfilled
Why wrong: While insufficient memory is one issue, the event also mentions a taint that the pod doesn't tolerate. So the cause is not solely memory.
- C
The pod does not tolerate the taint on the unreachable node and there is insufficient memory on other nodes
The event indicates both a taint tolerance issue and insufficient memory. Both must be resolved for the pod to schedule.
- D
The pod has a node selector that does not match any node
Why wrong: There is no mention of node selector in the event.
CKA Troubleshooting Practice Question
This CKA practice question tests your understanding of troubleshooting. The scenario asks you to isolate a root cause — eliminate options that address a different problem before choosing. After answering, compare your reasoning against the explanation and wrong-answer breakdown below. Once you have made your selection, read the full explanation to reinforce the concept and understand why each distractor is designed to mislead on exam day.
A pod is stuck in 'Pending' state. You run 'kubectl describe pod mypod' and see the event: '0/3 nodes are available: 1 node(s) had taint {node.kubernetes.io/unreachable: }, that the pod didn't tolerate, 2 Insufficient memory.' Which issue is causing the pod to be pending?
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
The pod does not tolerate the taint on the unreachable node and there is insufficient memory on other nodes
Option C is correct. The event clearly states two issues: a taint that the pod doesn't tolerate and insufficient memory. Multiple reasons are given, so the pod is pending due to both. Option A is partially correct but incomplete. Option B is not mentioned. Option D is incorrect because the event mentions both issues.
Key principle: Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
The node is unreachable
Why it's wrong here
The taint 'node.kubernetes.io/unreachable' indicates the node was unreachable, but the event also mentions insufficient memory on other nodes. The pod is pending due to both the taint and memory.
- ✗
The pod has a memory request that cannot be fulfilled
Why it's wrong here
While insufficient memory is one issue, the event also mentions a taint that the pod doesn't tolerate. So the cause is not solely memory.
- ✓
The pod does not tolerate the taint on the unreachable node and there is insufficient memory on other nodes
Why this is correct
The event indicates both a taint tolerance issue and insufficient memory. Both must be resolved for the pod to schedule.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
- ✗
The pod has a node selector that does not match any node
Why it's wrong here
There is no mention of node selector in the event.
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: answer the scenario, not the keyword
Many certification questions include familiar terms but test a specific constraint. Read the exact wording before choosing an answer that is generally true but wrong for this case.
Detailed technical explanation
How to think about this question
This question should be treated as a scenario, not a definition check. Identify the problem, the constraint and the best action. Then compare each option against those facts.
KKey Concepts to Remember
- Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
- Find the constraint that changes the correct option.
- Eliminate answers that are true in general but not in this case.
- Use explanations to understand the rule behind the answer.
TExam Day Tips
- Underline the problem statement mentally.
- Watch for words such as best, first, most likely and least administrative effort.
- Review why wrong options are wrong, not only why the correct option is correct.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
How this comes up in practice
A practitioner preparing for the CKA exam encounters this exact type of scenario on the job. The correct answer here is not the most general option — it is the best answer for the specific constraint described. Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option. Real exam questions reward reading the full scenario before eliminating options, because the constraint defines which answer fits.
What to study next
Got this wrong? Here's your next step.
Identify which CKA exam domain this question belongs to, then review the specific concept being tested. Practise related questions in that domain and focus on understanding why each wrong answer is tempting — not just why the correct answer is right.
- →
Troubleshooting — study guide chapter
Learn the concepts, then practise the questions
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FAQ
Questions learners often ask
What does this CKA question test?
Troubleshooting — This question tests Troubleshooting — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: The pod does not tolerate the taint on the unreachable node and there is insufficient memory on other nodes — Option C is correct. The event clearly states two issues: a taint that the pod doesn't tolerate and insufficient memory. Multiple reasons are given, so the pod is pending due to both. Option A is partially correct but incomplete. Option B is not mentioned. Option D is incorrect because the event mentions both issues.
What should I do if I get this CKA question wrong?
Identify which CKA exam domain this question belongs to, then review the specific concept being tested. Practise related questions in that domain and focus on understanding why each wrong answer is tempting — not just why the correct answer is right.
What is the key concept behind this question?
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
About these practice questions
Courseiva creates original exam-style practice questions with explanations and wrong-answer analysis. It does not publish real exam questions, exam dumps, or protected exam content. Learn why practice questions differ from exam dumps →
Last reviewed: Jun 21, 2026
This CKA practice question is part of Courseiva's free CNCF certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the CKA exam.
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