arc welding test in future!

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Well.. this is the thing,I'm applying for a ship builder position which entails welding 1/2 inch plate which I haven't done yet. I do have my S.M.A.W. certificate which I got in 1999.I've only had one welding job since then doing Iron work for 5 months which was welding 1/4 inch angle (single pass).When I was working I was very good at what I did so brushing up wont be a problem,the problem in which I'm seeking advice is doing multiple passes in vertical and overhead on 1/2 inch.any and all advice is being saught.The test is horizontal,vertical and overhead with no backing.
Reply:I  have some advice, practice.  You can get told a million ways to do it but the single largest help will be to get out and do it.  Although I would point out if I apply for a job, im going to make sure I can actually perform the task I will need to for the job before I apply.  Overhead groove joints with no backer is not something you pickup overnight, open roots can be very tricky till you get the technique down.  Are your welds going to be tested?As for what you are asking for, concentrate on getting a good root pass in.  With 1/8" open root on 1/2 plate I run 3/32 6010 held at a perfect 90 angle in all directions, regardless of the plate position.  I know it seems odd but thats how I was taught and once you learn how to do it it will lay down flawless roots all the time.  After that there should be no need to hotpass, just get some 7018 with  the amps set right and fill it in.What are the requirements for your welding, all 7018, or 6010 root 7018 fill, ect?Have we all gone mad?
Reply:It's kind of funny, the guy who showed me set me up just the opposite!  I do it with a 3/32 gap and 1/8 6010, same on the rod angles though, and just push it in, if you're doing it right, shouldn't see much of the arc it should all be on the back side.   His main reason for using 1/8 6010 was that it runs at the same amperage as a 3/32 7018, we were usually far from our power source, it really kept down on the running back and forth... almost forgot, not much land on the bevel, like 1/16 inch or less.  Best of luck on the test!- If you can jump across it you can weld it!  - anonymous old boilermaker
Reply:When im doing any sort of pressure work i always make sure i have a keyhole, generally all my fit ups are 3/32 land, 3/32 gap w/ 1/8" 6010. 7018 fill. Tig 1/8" gap, feathered edge 3/32 rod. If you have a keyhole you can monitor and make sure your biting on both edges of pipe/plate whatever your welding. I find theirs too much uncertainty when you cant visually see whats going on with your arc, almost as if your hoping it goes in right?