The journey to becoming a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) is an exciting step into a rewarding career. As an RBT, you'll work directly with clients, implementing behavior-analytic services under the supervision of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. After the training, onboarding, and preparation, there is one last step - the RBT examination.
The exam can feel intimidating, but with the right preparation, you will be able to approach it with confidence. At Powerback Pediatrics, we are committed to helping you feel prepared and ready to take the exam.
Here's a guide with tips and tools to help you create a solid study plan and set yourself up for success.
What study guides are available for the RBT exam?
The most important tool for your preparation is the official RBT Task List provided by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). This document is your roadmap for the entire exam. It outlines all the knowledge and skills you are expected to have as an RBT.
- Study each item on the list thoroughly. Don't just read it; understand the concepts behind each task.
- Break down the content into manageable sections. The exam is typically organized into a few key areas: Measurement, Assessment, Skill Acquisition, Behavior Reduction, Documentation and Reporting, and Professional Conduct and Scope of Practice. This structure can help you organize your study sessions. The exam will cover all of the content that you learned in your 40 hour training modules.
Are there any additional study materials I should use to prepare for the RBT exam?
There's no shortage of study materials available to help you prepare. Utilize a variety of resources to reinforce your learning and cover all your bases, such as:
- Your 40-hour RBT training: This is the foundation of your knowledge. Review the materials from your training course, whether they were online modules, videos, or quizzes.
- RBT Handbooks and Study Guides: Look for resources specifically designed for the RBT exam. Many are written by BCBAs (Board Certified Behavior Analysts) and offer in-depth explanations and examples.
- Flashcards: Flashcards are an excellent tool for memorizing key terms, definitions, and concepts. You can create your own or find pre-made sets online.
- Practice Exams and Mock Exams: Taking practice tests is one of the most effective ways to prepare. They help you get familiar with the exam format, identify your areas of weakness, and practice your time management skills.
- Your BCBA: Your BCBA is here to help you, and support you as you study and review the concepts. Schedule time with them to ask questions, review materials, and get feedback.
Why is a study plan important for the RBT exam?
Once you have your materials, it's time to build a study plan. Instead of cramming, using active and effective study techniques can help you to retain the information you've worked so hard to learn!
- Create a study schedule: Dedicate a specific amount of time each day or week to studying. Balance your study sessions with breaks to prevent burnout.
- Use active recall: Instead of passively rereading your notes, try to recall information from memory. For example, after reading a section on a topic, close the book and try to explain the concept in your own words.
- Form a study group: Explaining concepts to others is a fantastic way to solidify your understanding. A study group can provide a supportive environment for discussion and can help clarify difficult topics.
- Apply the concepts: Think about how the principles of ABA apply to real-life situations. For example, when studying the four functions of behavior (attention, tangible, escape, and automatic), try to come up with your own examples for each.
Our top tips for the day of your RBT exam
The day of the exam can be nerve-wracking, but you've done the work.
Here are a few final tips:
- Get a good night's sleep: You need to be well-rested to think clearly.
- Arrive early: Give yourself plenty of time to check in and get settled.
- Read carefully: Read each question and all of the answer choices thoroughly before making a selection. Each question will have 4 possible answers and only 1 correct answer.
- Pace yourself: The RBT exam is timed, with 85 multiple-choice questions to be completed in 90 minutes. Don't get stuck on a single question. If you're unsure, skip it and come back to it later if you have time.
- Don't leave any questions blank: There is no penalty for incorrect answers, so it's always better to make an educated guess than to leave a question unanswered.
Passing the RBT exam is a significant accomplishment and a testament to your commitment to the field of behavior analysis. By using a structured approach and effective study techniques, you can walk into the testing center prepared and confident. Good luck!
