CRISC IT Risk Assessment Practice Question
In a qualitative risk assessment, which TWO elements are typically used to determine the risk rating?
⚠ Common exam trap
It's easy for candidates to confuse the inputs for inherent risk rating (likelihood and impact) with factors used in residual risk calculation or risk treatment decisions, such as control effectiveness or cost of mitigation.
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
✓
Likelihood
In a qualitative risk assessment, risk rating is determined by combining the likelihood of a threat occurring with the impact of that threat on business objectives. Likelihood (A) and impact (B) are the two fundamental elements used in a risk matrix to assign a qualitative rating such as high, medium, or low. This approach relies on subjective judgment rather than numerical data, making it suitable for scenarios where precise quantification is not feasible.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
Likelihood
Why this is correct
Likelihood is one dimension of risk.
- ✓
Impact
Why this is correct
Impact is the other dimension of risk.
- ✗
Risk appetite
Why it's wrong here
Risk appetite determines acceptability, not rating.
- ✗
Cost of mitigation
Why it's wrong here
Cost is not part of the risk rating calculation.
- ✗
Control effectiveness
Why it's wrong here
Control effectiveness is used for residual risk, not inherent risk rating.
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JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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