The Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) exam is a critical step in your career as a behavior technician. While the exam isn’t designed to be impossible, many candidates make simple mistakes that can prevent them from passing on the first try.
In this article, I’ll share the most common mistakes to avoid and provide actionable tips to help you succeed.
1. Not Understanding the RBT Task List
The RBT exam is based on the RBT Task List (2nd edition), which outlines all the skills and knowledge you need. A common mistake is skipping the task list or not reviewing it thoroughly.
How to avoid it:
- Read the task list carefully and highlight key areas.
- Make sure you understand each skill, especially in measurement, assessment, and behavior reduction.
- Use it as a checklist while studying.
2. Relying Only on One Study Resource
Some candidates stick to a single book or course and assume it’s enough. This can lead to gaps in knowledge.
How to avoid it:
- Use a combination of resources: books, online courses, video tutorials, and practice exams.
- Check that your resources are updated to the latest RBT exam standards (2025).
3. Ignoring Practice Exams
Many people underestimate the importance of practice exams. Simply reading is not enough to pass.
How to avoid it:
- Take multiple practice exams under timed conditions.
- Review every wrong answer carefully and understand why it was incorrect.
- Simulate real exam conditions to reduce anxiety on test day.
4. Not Managing Time Properly
The RBT exam has a time limit, and some candidates spend too long on difficult questions, leaving easier ones incomplete.
How to avoid it:
- Practice pacing with timed practice tests.
- Skip and return to difficult questions instead of wasting too much time.
- Keep track of time and stay calm.
5. Overlooking Ethics and Professional Conduct
Ethics questions are common on the RBT exam. Some candidates focus only on technical skills and ignore ethical scenarios.
How to avoid it:
- Study the BACB RBT Ethics Code thoroughly.
- Practice applying ethical rules to real-life scenarios.
- Remember, ethics questions often test your judgment, not memorization.
6. Cramming at the Last Minute
Waiting until the last few days to study is a major mistake. Cramming increases stress and reduces retention.
How to avoid it:
- Start studying at least 3–4 weeks before your exam.
- Break study sessions into short, consistent blocks.
- Use active learning techniques like flashcards and teaching back concepts.
7. Ignoring Your Weak Areas
Many candidates focus only on their strong areas and ignore topics they find difficult.
How to avoid it:
- Identify weak areas early using practice tests.
- Spend extra time reviewing those topics.
- Don’t skip difficult concepts—they often appear on the exam.
8. Test-Day Mistakes
Even well-prepared candidates can make simple mistakes on exam day:
- Arriving late or unprepared.
- Forgetting required identification.
- Panicking when encountering difficult questions.
How to avoid it:
- Prepare your ID and exam setup the night before.
- Arrive early and take a few deep breaths.
- Read each question carefully and stay calm.
Final Thoughts
Passing the RBT exam is entirely achievable if you study smart, prepare consistently, and avoid common mistakes. Focus on understanding the RBT Task List, practicing ethically and technically, and managing your time wisely. By avoiding these pitfalls, you’ll be in a strong position to pass the exam confidently on your first attempt.