Preparing for the Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) exam can feel overwhelming at first. The exam tests your knowledge and skills in applied behavior analysis (ABA), and passing it is a crucial step in your career as a behavior technician.
In this article, I’ll share exactly how I studied for the RBT exam, including the resources I used, my study strategy, and tips that actually worked.
Understanding the RBT Exam
Before diving into study materials, it’s important to know what the RBT exam covers. The exam is based on the RBT Task List (2nd edition), which includes these major areas:
- Measurement – How to collect, measure, and record data accurately.
- Assessment – Understanding basic behavioral assessments.
- Skill Acquisition – Teaching new skills effectively.
- Behavior Reduction – Strategies to manage challenging behavior safely.
- Professional Conduct – Ethics and professional guidelines in ABA practice.
Knowing the structure helps you plan your study time wisely.
Step 1: Gather Reliable Study Resources
I started by collecting high-quality, reliable resources. Here’s what I used:
- RBT Task List (2nd edition) – The official task list from the BACB is essential.
- RBT Exam Prep Books – Books like The RBT Exam Study Guide are great for practice questions.
- Online Courses & Video Tutorials – Websites like Behavior University and ABA Wizard provide structured learning.
- Practice Tests – Simulated exams helped me get used to the question format and timing.
Tip: Make sure all resources are updated to 2025 standards, as the exam content changes over time.
Step 2: Make a Study Schedule
Consistency is key. I made a 4-week study schedule that worked for me:
- Week 1: Focus on Measurement and Assessment. Understand data collection methods and basic assessments.
- Week 2: Dive into Skill Acquisition. Learn the principles of teaching new skills.
- Week 3: Study Behavior Reduction and Ethics. Practice applying strategies to real-life scenarios.
- Week 4: Review everything and take multiple practice exams. Identify weak areas and revise.
Tip: Study in short, focused sessions of 45–60 minutes. Frequent breaks improve retention.
Step 3: Active Learning Techniques
Reading alone wasn’t enough for me. I used active learning techniques:
- Flashcards: To memorize definitions, ABA principles, and ethical rules.
- Practice Questions: Answering questions helped reinforce concepts.
- Teach Back: Explaining concepts to a friend or even to myself aloud helped retention.
- Scenario Practice: I reviewed case studies and applied what I learned in real-life scenarios.
Step 4: Join Study Groups and Communities
Connecting with others preparing for the RBT exam was a game-changer:
- Reddit RBT Study Group – Helpful discussions and tips.
- Facebook RBT Groups – Share resources and ask questions.
- Local ABA Communities – Sometimes local behavior analyst groups offer workshops or study sessions.
Tip: Explaining concepts to peers is one of the best ways to strengthen your understanding.
Step 5: Final Exam Preparation
In the final week, I focused on:
- Reviewing Weak Areas – Go over topics you struggled with the most.
- Timed Practice Exams – Helps reduce anxiety and improve time management.
- Relaxation Techniques – Deep breathing and short walks to stay calm before the exam.
My Personal Tips for Success
- Start Early: Don’t cram. Begin studying at least a month in advance.
- Use Multiple Resources: Books, videos, and practice questions together work best.
- Practice Every Day: Even 30 minutes daily is better than long but inconsistent sessions.
- Stay Positive: Confidence matters. Believe in your preparation.
- Focus on Ethics: Many exam questions test ethical decision-making, so pay extra attention here.
Final Thoughts
Passing the RBT exam is achievable with structured planning, consistent practice, and the right resources. Everyone has a slightly different learning style, so adapt these tips to what works best for you. By following a clear study plan and practicing actively, you can confidently walk into the exam and succeed.