Result days are some of the best and worst days. There is always that friend you know who you hope passed, then when it is your turn, you wish them well and secretly pray and hope you make it to the “other side.” Well folks, results are in. You are either celebrating a triumphant victory over pizza and champagne, or you are curled up in a tiny ball in your snuggie asking yourself, “why” as you sip on a glass of red wine and binge watch your favorite episode of Friends.
The best way to depict these two polar opposite emotions:
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Those of you who did not get the results you wanted, you are probably confused and asking yourself, “How could I possibly study any more than I already have?” I have been there! If you are like me, you are frantically googling the past test probabilities, or thinking to yourself, “if I keep reading ABA study group responses, I will find the key to passing next time.”
I am here to tell you, it is not as simple as a google search.
I am here to tell you, that if you want to pass, you must change your study approach.
I am here to tell you, that you must set consistent, realistic goals this time around.
I am here to tell you, YOU CAN DO THIS!
Let me tell you a little trick, formulate a study plan and stick to it. You can check out the pre-made study plans on the website, 30 day or 60 day study calendars. You know when you see those adds, “Lose 10 pounds in 30 days by drinking this magic potion created by unicorns?” It is unrealistic! There is simply no quick fix to losing weight, you simply need to eat healthy, and work out. Yes, I am comparing preparing for the exam to working out, but it is the same principle! Like anything worth getting in life, you must put in the time and the effort. Knowing the definitions is only 50% of the knowledge. You must not only know the definitions, but you must know the disadvantages, advantages, purposes, applications, and limitations to all of the terms. Know the “whys, the whens and the hows” and you will find yourself understanding the ABA web. Just like working out, if you set yourself an attainable goal, you will succeed.
Once you realize ABA is a giant web, and you have to connect the dots, studying becomes a lot easier. Practice discussing terms with your fellow colleagues, or supervisors to help become familiar and fluent with the terminology. Applying concepts to real life examples is key to ultimate fluency!!