Navigating the Transition: 5th Edition Task List vs. 6th Edition TCO
As the behavior analysis field evolves, so do the certification requirements. The BACB’s transition from the 5th edition Task List to the new 6th edition Test Content Outline (TCO) represents a significant shift for BCBA candidates. At ReadySetABA, we’ve updated our study materials to help you navigate this change successfully.
Key Differences Between 5th Edition Task List and 6th Edition TCO
1. Structure and Organization
5th Edition: Organized into two major sections (Foundations and Applications) with 9 content areas (A-I).
6th Edition: Maintains the familiar A-I domain structure but eliminates the Foundations/Applications division, creating a more integrated framework.
2. Content Changes and Emphasis
- Philosophical Foundations: The 6th edition places greater emphasis on behaviorism and philosophical foundations (Domain A).
- Concepts and Principles: The new TCO expands this section (Domain B) with more detailed breakdown of behavioral principles.
- Ethics: The 6th edition integrates cultural responsiveness and inclusivity throughout the ethical standards.
- Assessment and Intervention: More emphasis on client-informed and culturally responsive approaches.
3. Question Distribution
The 6th edition TCO provides specific information about how many questions will come from each domain on the exam:
- A. Behaviorism and Philosophical Foundations: 8 questions (5%)
- B. Concepts and Principles: 24 questions (14%)
- C. Measurement, Data Display, and Interpretation: 21 questions (12%)
- D. Experimental Design: 13 questions (7%)
- E. Ethical and Professional Issues: 22 questions (13%)
- F. Behavior Assessment: 23 questions (13%)
- G. Behavior-Change Procedures: 25 questions (14%)
- H. Selecting and Implementing Interventions: 20 questions (11%)
- I. Personnel Supervision and Management: 19 questions (11%)
This transparency helps candidates allocate study time more effectively.
How Our Updated Study Calendar Supports Your Success
Our newly revised 30-day study calendar has been carefully aligned with the 6th edition TCO to ensure comprehensive coverage of all exam content. The calendar:
- Groups-related content for more efficient studying
- Maintains regular review/catch-up days
- Aligns Cooper textbook readings with specific TCO sections
- Balances study time according to exam weight for each domain
- Provides clear, measurable progress tracking
Your Exam Preparation with ReadySetABA
While our study calendar provides an excellent foundation, serious BCBA® candidates need more comprehensive support. Our tutoring services offer:
🔍 Personalized Study Plans
We assess your strengths and areas for improvement to create a customized study strategy that maximizes your limited preparation time.
📚 Exclusive E-Book Access
Our detailed study guides break down complex concepts into manageable chunks with real-world examples.
✅ Practice Exam Questions
Test your knowledge with hundreds of exam-style questions that mirror the actual BCBA exam format and difficulty.
👩🏫 One-on-One Tutoring
Work directly with BCBA experts who understand the nuances of the new 6th edition content and can provide targeted guidance.
Ready to Pass Your BCBA® Exam?
Contact us to sign up for our tutoring services today and gain access to our comprehensive study materials, including our updated study calendar, in-depth e-book, and practice exams.
email me at katherine@readysetaba.com
Our students consistently report feeling more confident and better prepared after working with our team. Make the transition to the 6th edition TCO seamless with ReadySetABA as your partner in certification success.
Katherine Kellogg, M.Ed., BCBA
ReadySetABA
