Registered behavior technicians are the heartbeat of behavior analysis. RBTs are the ones on the front lines implementing behavior intervention programs. But there is a lot that goes into becoming a registered behavior technician (RBT®). After taking a 40-hour course and completing a competency assessment, you must pass an exam. This exam consists of 85 multiple choice questions based on the RBT 2nd Edition Task List. RBTs not only need to know how to implement applied behavior analysis with the clients they serve, but they also need to understand the terminology, task list contents, and ethical guidelines in order to pass the exam. The road to becoming an RBT can be stressful, but it does not have to be.
When you are studying for the RBT exam, it is important to set yourself up for success. The following are some tips to help you find a productive study routine and pass the exam.
- Review the RBT Handbook
The RBT Handbook breaks down everything you need to know about taking the RBT exam – from the certification process to the blueprint of the exam itself. Familiarize yourself with these guidelines so that you are not caught off guard during the certification process.
- Take notes during your 40-hour course
One of the first things in the process of becoming an RBT is to take the 40-hour course. During this course, you should take thorough notes. These notes are crucial in remembering learned content. After taking your notes, review them and create SAFMEDS (see #4).
- Review the task list
Review the task list after your course. The task list covers everything that will be on the RBT exam. Go through each section one by one. Check off what you know, and highlight what you need more help with! This will help you know which content you need to study more!
- Create SAFMEDS
SAFMEDS stands for “Say All Fast, a Minute Every Day, Shuffled.” SAFMEDS are flashcards that test your fluency with exam content. Write an ABA term on one side of the flashcard, and the definition on the other side. Keep your wording short, because you will be going through these flashcards fast! Set a timer for 1 minute. Go through each flashcard by saying each card out loud! If you get a card right, put it in the correct pile. If you get a card incorrect, put it in the incorrect pile. Keep track of how many cards you got correct, so that you can improve your score the next time.
- Set a Study Schedule
It is easy to procrastinate. It is also easy to get lost in studying and forget to take a break. Set a schedule for yourself so that you do not become overwhelmed. We recommend starting to study for the RBT exam no more than 3 months in advance. Set aside time in your day to devote to studying. Remember to schedule breaks, drink water, and eat some snacks! You got this!
- Join a Study Group
It is nice to have others going through the same process to bounce off examples and troubleshoot content. Study Groups can be with other prospective RBT colleagues, or it can be led by a BCBA or BCaBA. We recommend joining a study group led by a behavior analyst. They have gone through the education and experience to understand the content you are learning. They can also relay real-life examples or break down concepts in a way that is easier to understand.
- Take a Mock Exam
Mock Exams are meant to test your knowledge before taking the big exam. Some mock exams may even break down the content areas for you so you know exactly where you need more practice. Mock exams can be timed or untimed. After taking your mock exam, review the areas in which you need more help, and study them with your SAFMEDS until you reach fluency.
For more help studying, check out our study groups and mock exams! You can also email info@behaviorprep.com to set up a 1:1 tutoring session with an experienced BCBA!