RBT Exam: Study Tips for Success
On the path towards becoming a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT)? Becoming an RBT in NY is an extremely rewarding and exciting career path. If you have a passion for helping individuals with autism, special education, or children, that passion will light a fire in your career as RBTs play a crucial role in improving the lives of those in need. If you’re pursuing an RBT job in NY or working towards getting your certification, taking the RBT exam can feel overwhelming. Although you may feel a little stressed, there are plenty of strategies and tips to help you pass the exam with flying colors and set yourself up for success.
RBT Exam: Study Tips for Success
- Familiarize Yourself with the RBT Exam Requirements in NY
In order to be eligible to take the Registered Behavior Technician exam, you must meet the requirements. The following eligibility requirements must be met before applying to take the RBT certification exam:
- Age: You must be at least 18 years old
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Background and Abuse Registry Check: You must complete and pass a criminal background check and an abuse registry check.
- Training: You must complete at least 40 hours of training that meets the requirements outlined in the RBT 40-Hour Training packet. This training must be completed no later than 5 days before the exam date and no earlier than 180 days before the exam date.
- Initial Competency Assessment: After you complete the 40-hour training, you must be able to demonstrate that you can complete the tasks outlined on the RBT Initial Competency Assessment. This must be completed with your assessor and be uploaded with your RBT exam application.
- Construct a Study Plan
When preparing for the RBT exam, one of the first steps is constructing a study plan. A study plan is your best friend when it comes to preparing to take an important exam. Break down your study sessions into manageable chunks. By breaking down your sessions into smaller sections, it will help prevent burnout and keep you on track. Set aside specific days or times of each day to focus on studying and reviewing specific topics rather than cramming multiple hours in one or a two days. Creating a study schedule keeps you accountable and it should include all exam content areas. Use the RBT task list to create a specific focus for each study session.
- Study the RBT Task List
The foundation for the RBT Certification exam is the RBT task list. The RBT task list is a comprehensive guide to all the skills and knowledge needed in order to pass the exam. You will want to study each topic in detail and assess your strengths and weaknesses. Using the task list will ensure that you fully grasp and understand each concept you will be tested on. The areas covered in the exam include:
- Measurement
- Assessment
- Skill Acquisition
- Behavior Reduction
- Documentation and Reporting
- Professional Conduct and Scope of Practice
- Use Practice Exams
One of the best preparation techniques for the RBT exam is to take practice exams. These online mock exams replicate all the concepts you will be tested on. Utilizing practice exams gets you familiar with the test format, types of questions you’ll be asked, and answering these questions in a timely manner. By timing yourself and simulating the actual exam, you’ll gain more confidence and be well prepared for the exam day. On the other hand, taking sample exams will highlight areas you need to focus on a little more than other topics during your study sessions.
- Break Down Complex Concepts
As mentioned earlier, both your study sessions and practice exams should highlight your strengths and weaknesses with the concepts you will be tested on. The certain concepts or terms that you are having a little more trouble with should be broken down into simpler parts. For example, if you’re seeing a little weakness with the behavioral principals, study each individual principal individually. By breaking it down and studying positive reinforcement, negative reinforcement, and punishment, you’ll be able to understand them more clearly.
- Use Readily Available Resources
Thanks to the internet, there is an extremely wide variety of readily available (and free) resources to use to your advantage. Use online textbooks, courses, study guides, flashcards, videos, and even apps designed specifically for RBT exam prep. You can also head right to the BACB website to access RBT-specific tips and guides.
- Stay Positive and Confident
Last but not least, stay positive! The RBT exam is challenging, but by taking these study tips into consideration and implementing it into your study plan, you’ll set yourself up for success. Trust in the effort you’ve put into your studies, and approach the exam with confidence. Remember to get a good nights sleep, have a healthy breakfast, and take deep breaths. Remember that passing this exam is just one step toward an amazing and fulfilling career as an RBT in NY!
Final Thoughts
By following our study tips for the RBT exam, you’ll be well on your way to passing the exam and earning your certification! Starting your career as a Registered Behavior Technician in New York can feel slightly overwhelming but remember that you will be entering an extremely rewarding career path. As an RBT, you’ll have the opportunity to make a positive impact on individuals’ lives daily.
If you’re looking for an RBT job in NY, Horizon Staffing Solutions can help connect you with exciting opportunities in the field and land you your first RBT interview. Whether you’re just starting or ready to take the next step in your career, our team is here to help you find the right fit. Ready to start your journey as an RBT in New York? Send us your resume today!