Dana Do’s: Why BCBA® Retaker Odds are Lower

Let’s talk retaker odds. A lot of possible explanations as to why the odds are lower. And I’m not going to bore you with my opinions, except for one super important observation/opinion– the score report. Now, if you don’t pass, you get a score breakdown. It’s feedback about how the test takers scored on specific sections of the task list, and seems like it would be so helpful narrowing down what to study. Many people end up doing just that: studying those sections for their next attempt. But guess what? The scores, they flip-flop. I’ve seen it a lot (how’s that for empirical data?). Now, first timers, they don’t have a score report. They study everything. And I would argue, this is the variable affecting the odds. So what are you saying Dana? Well, I’m saying be a first timer, an exam virgin. This is a virginity you can reclaim. I mean, there’s no chip on your shoulder, you’re excited, you’re nervous. Yet optimistic. You’re studying everything. No history of specific feedback. Ignore the score reports. Study everything again. Behave like a first timer and double your odds. Try it.

  • BEPW
  • Dana Do's
  • Retaker
  • Study Manual
  • Related Content

  • PTB founder Dana Meller illustrates how using the ethics Code can help BCBA/BCaBA exam candidates identify the correct answer on exam questions.Dana Do's: How to Use the Ethics Code to Help Answer Questions on the BCBA® Exam
    PTB founder Dana Meller illustrates how using the ethics Code can help BCBA/BCaBA exam candidates identify the correct answer on exam questions.
  • How do you determine the relative preference of tested stimuli during trial-based preference assessments? PTB Founder Dana Meller breaks it down.Dana Do's: How to Determine Preference of Tested Stimuli
    How do you determine the relative preference of tested stimuli during trial-based preference assessments? PTB Founder Dana Meller breaks it down.
  • Shaping and chaining are strategies for teaching complex behaviors that are often confused. PTB founder Dana Meller makes the differences clear. Refer to the 6th Edition Test Content Outline Domain G.11: Shape dimensions of behavior; and Domain G.12: Select and implement chaining procedures.Dana Do's: Clearing Up the Confusion Over Shaping and Chaining
    Shaping and chaining are strategies for teaching complex behaviors that are often confused. PTB founder Dana Meller makes the differences clear.
  • What’s a BCBA to do when extinction isn’t appropriate? PTB founder Dana Meller explains how to use a DRA without aversive control.Dana Do's: Fun Fact About Using DRA
    You know how the textbooks say that there are two parts to differential reinforcement, one being reinforcement for the desired behavior and the other extinction for the target behavior? Applying…
  • Social significance is such a buzzword ABA. PTB founder Dana Meller breaks down all the different areas in which social significance is important.Dana Do's: Socially Significant Information
    Social significance is such a buzzword ABA. PTB founder Dana Meller breaks down all the different areas in which social significance is important.
  • What’s the difference between parametric, component, and comparative analyses? And what do experimental designs have to do with it? PTB founder Dana Meller clears up the confusion with a deep dive into analysis variations.Dana Do's: The Distinction Between Analysis Types and Experimental Designs
    What’s the difference between parametric, component, and comparative analyses? And what do experimental designs have to do with it? PTB founder Dana Meller clears up the confusion with a deep dive into analysis variations.
  • With the 6th Edition transition weeks away, many BCBA®/BCaBA® exam candidates are uncertain about how to best prepare. PTB founder Dana Meller is here with advice on how 5th Ed. students can plan to Beat the Odds and navigate the new 6th Ed. Test Content Outline (TCO).Dana Do's: How to Prepare for the Transition to the BACB® 6th Edition Test Content Outline
    With the 6th Edition transition weeks away, many BCBA®/BCaBA® exam candidates are uncertain about how to best prepare. PTB founder Dana Meller is here with advice on how 5th Ed. students can plan to Beat the Odds and navigate the new 6th Ed. Test Content Outline (TCO).
  • PTB’s Big Exam Prep Workshop is a live, interactive 6-week intensive (with up to 14 weeks of access to online materials, subject to registration). Integrating behavior analytic strategies, the hands-on masterclass breaks down the BACB® 6th Edition Test Content Outline, harnessing PTB’s signature formula for organizing and structuring BCBA® exam prep.Big Exam Prep Workshop
    PTB’s Big Exam Prep Workshop is a live, interactive 6-week intensive (with up to 14 weeks of access to online materials, subject to registration). Integrating behavior analytic strategies, this hands-on masterclass breaks down the BACB® 6th Edition Test Content Outline, harnessing PTB’s signature formula for organizing and structuring BCBA® exam prep.  
  • It’s all too easy to mix up continuous and discontinuous measurement procedures. Need some help discriminating between the two? Get clarity with help from PTB founder Dana Meller.Dana Do's: What's the Difference Between Continuous and Discontinuous Measurement?
    It’s all too easy to mix up continuous and discontinuous measurement procedures. Need some help discriminating between the two? Get clarity with help from PTB founder Dana Meller.
  • Exam day can shake even the most self-assured candidate but it’s important to feel secure in yourself and your skills. Looking to up your confidence before sitting for the Big exam? PTB has rounded up 5 confidence-boosting tips to help you with the mental and emotional part of exam prep.You Got This: 5 Tips to Build Up Your Test-Taking Confidence
    Exam day can shake even the most self-assured candidate but it’s important to feel secure in yourself and your skills. Looking to up your confidence before sitting for the Big…
  • Punishment is known to have a quick impact on behavior, but there are ethical implications which makes it very controversial. PTB founder Dana Meller offers some considerations when encountering exam questions related to punishment.Dana Do's: Considerations for Exam Questions Related to the Use of Punishment
    Punishment is known to have a quick impact on behavior, but there are ethical implications which makes it very controversial. PTB founder Dana Meller offers some considerations when encountering exam questions related to punishment.
  • Tripped up trying to make correct discriminations when it comes to functional analysis? PTB founder Dana Meller has some tips to help you answer those tricky exam questions.Dana Do's: Tips for Test Questions About Functional Analysis
    Tripped up trying to make correct discriminations when it comes to functional analysis? PTB founder Dana Meller has some tips to help you answer those tricky exam questions.
  • Looking to review direct assessment methods? PTB founder Dana Meller gets right to it with this quick explainer.Dana Do's: Six Direct Assessment Methods
    Looking to review direct assessment methods? PTB founder Dana Meller gets right to it with this quick explainer.
  • Let’s talk contingency independent antecedent intervention… Or, in simpler terms, NCR. Get the scoop on this non-invasive procedure with a quick explainer from PTB founder Dana Meller.Dana Do's: Exploring the Forms and Functions of Noncontingent Reinforcements (NCR)
    Let’s talk contingency independent antecedent intervention… Or, in simpler terms, NCR. Get the scoop on this non-invasive procedure with a quick explainer from PTB founder Dana Meller.
  • PTB founder Dana Meller offers some advice for exam-takers the night before the Big day.Dana Do's: What to Do the Night Before the Big Exam
    It’s the night before your exam. What should you be doing? Well, first off, nobody knows you better than you know yourself. But since you asked, because someone did ask,…
  • Dana Do's: Exploring the Four Types of Reinforcer Assessments.Dana Do's: Exploring the Four Types of Reinforcer Assessments
    PTB founder Dana Meller discusses reinforcer assessments, which should not be confused with stimulus preference assessments.
  • Five Ways to Help Offset the Cost of CertificationFive Ways to Help Offset the Cost of Certification
    There’s no way around it, becoming a certified BCBA® is an investment. Not only is the exam itself costly but expenses on the path to certification can quickly add up,…
  • 5 Elements of a Successful Study PlanThe 5 Elements of an Effective Study Plan
    If you’re on the path to the BCBA®/BCaBA® exam and looking to get a plan in place, look no further. PTB has five tips to help you devise an effective…
  • 7 Tips to Maximize Test Prep7 Tips for Maximizing Test Prep
    #1: Focus on Form Be sure to get the right resources and materials. Having up-to-date books and academic literature will ensure you’re studying the right stuff. Ready for mock exams…
  • Dana Do's: Nine Considerations for Prioritizing Target Behaviors
    PTB founder breaks down each of the nine considerations for prioritizing target behaviors.
  • Dana Do's: Extinguished Behaviors Resurge
    When reinforcement for the alternative replacement behavior is discontinued, extinction for the alternative behavior can resurge.
  • The BACB® 6th Edition: Assessing All the Upcoming Changes
    It’s been more than two years since the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, BACB®, announced their 6th Edition updates. Now, as January 2025 inches closer, students, universities, and Applied Behavior Analysis…
  • Rest Assured: Four Tips for Better Sleep Before the Big Exam
    Sleep… You need it. You love it. If you’re studying for the BCBA® exam, you probably feel like you need more of it. Staying well-rested on your journey is essential,…
  • PTB founder Dana Meller clarifies the specific steps for evidence-based supervision, not to be confused with behavior skills training.Dana Do's: 7 Steps of Evidence-Based Supervision
    PTB founder Dana Meller clarifies the specific steps for evidence-based supervision, not to be confused with behavior skills training.
  • Dana Do's: What is the Difference Between Trial-Based and Free-Operant Teaching Arrangements?
    Not too sure about discriminating between the different teaching arrangements? Not to worry. PTB founder Dana Meller is here to explain trial-based vs free operant procedures.
  • 6 Science-backed tips to improve memory.6 Science-Backed Tips for Improving Your Memory
    The first part of those all-important MAC skills: memorization. Being able to recall information, facts, concepts, and terms is essential (that probably goes without saying). If you find your memory…
  • Dana Do's: All the Validities in ABA, Explained
    PTB founder Dana Meller helps connect each of the validities to the validity of this explanation.
  • Dana Do's: Will Reinforcer Assessments be on the BCBA® Exam?
    The Task List and the TCO (Test Content Outline) both include preference assessments. But, they don't mention reinforcer assessments. Does that mean that reinforcer assessments will not be on the exam?
  • ABA in Your Day-to-Day: Products That Use the Power of Behavior Principles
    The principles behind Behavior Analysis (ABA) are everywhere– if you know what to look for. It probably wouldn’t surprise a BCBA (or future BCBA) to know that ABA inspires everyday…
  • If you need help breaking down test questions, there's a simple tool you can use to eliminate the risk of making assumptions on the BCBA® exam.Dana Do's: The ABCs of Breaking Down BCBA® Exam Test Questions
    If you need help breaking down test questions, there's a simple tool you can use to eliminate the risk of making assumptions on the BCBA® exam.
  • Feeling unprepared from insufficient coursework? You’re not alone. Many students find themsleves in this position, but luckily there’s hope. PTB co-founder Dana Meller offers her advice for what to do when your coursework just isn’t enough.Dana Do's: Has Your Coursework Left You Unprepared for the BCBA® Exam?
    If your coursework left you unprepared for the BCBA exam, PTB co-founder Dana Meller offers some ideas of how to avoid the hamster wheel of multiple exam retakes.
  • If a response prompt and a stimulus prompt both prompt correct responses, what is the difference?Dana Do's: What's the Difference Between Response vs. Stimulus Prompts?
    If a response prompt and a stimulus prompt both prompt correct responses, what is the difference?
  • Beat the Odds: 5 Tips You Need If You’re Retaking the Exam
    Retaking the exam? You’re in good company. In fact, PTB conducted a study of BCBA® exam candidates in 2023 that showed more than ⅓ of test-takers are in fact retakers.…
  • Dana Do's: What Should I Do If I Don't Pass the BCBA® Exam?
    If you're retaking the exam and you don't know how to proceed with studying again, PTB co-founder Dana Meller has some suggestions that you might want to consider.
  • Dana Do's: Why BCBA® Exam Retakers Should Ignore the Score Report
    PTB's retaker philosophy has not changed since we first began BCBA® test prep, 12 years ago. In fact, the philosophy has only been reinforced over the years as retaker pass rates continue to drop. If you're retaking the exam, you need to hear this advise from PTB co-founder Dana Meller.
  • 3.14 Tips to Make Exam Prep as Easy as Pi
    #1: Set Specific (And Smaller) Goals Setting goals when developing a study strategy is important, but even more important is setting goals that are rational, realistic, and manageable. Setting too…
  • Dana Do's: How to Discriminate What 'Is' or 'Is Not' Behavior in BCBA® Exam Questions
    There is a struggle with identifying what is or is not a behavior when it comes to BCBA® exam questions. PTB co-founder Dana Meller offers some simple yet critical ways to make those discriminations.
  • Dana Do's: Do Alternative Behaviors Need to be Functionally Equivalent?
    Do alternative behaviors always have to be functionally equivalent to the target behavior that we're trying to reduce or eliminate? PTB co-founder Dana Meller breaks in down.
  • Dana Do's: And Just Like That, Context and Application for Task List Items
    How does going to ABA conferences help you pass the BCBA® exam? PTB co-founder Dana Meller recalls her student journey and the "a-ha moment" when she realized, attending forced her to generalize what she was studying, in context. Suddenly, ABA terminology was no longer a foreign language she was trying to master.
  • Dana Do's: How to Determine Value vs. Behavior Altering Effect
    A motivating operation is not a thing that you hold in your hand. It is the state or condition of being deprived of something or satiated with something. PTB co-founder Dana Meller dives into the in-the-moment effects to help explain the difference.
  • PTB Partner Spotlight: In Conversation with APBA’s CEO, Dr. Tyra Sellers
    An industry veteran who watched the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) grow into what it is today, Tyra Sellers, J.D., Ph.D., BCBA-D joined the Association of Professional Behavior Analysts (APBA) in January 2023 as CEO. Her first ABA certification came before the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) even existed. Some years later, as fate would have it, Sellers found herself at the  BACB, serving as the director of the ethics department. Now, she is bringing her knowledge and experience to the distinguished organization with a strategy that is focused on access, education and community.
  • Dana Do's: Cracking the Ethics Code on Consent vs. Assent
    The ethics code asks behavior analysts to obtain informed consent before starting a treatment plan. But…what does that entail? PTB co-founder Dana Meller breaks down informed consent, assent, and the ethics elements you need to know. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Code Section E- 2.11 Obtaining Informed Consent
  • Dana Do's: Discriminating Between Masking and Overshadowing
    PTB co-founder Dana Meller offers detailed examples to help students better discriminate between two often confusing concepts: masking vs. overshadowing.
  • Dana Do's: Chain Chain Chain, Chain, Chain...
    Which chaining method goes with which behavior? Dana Meller offers some considerations that may help you answer that question on the exam. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section Section G-8: Use chaining.
  • Dana Do's: Confused About Automatic and Socially Mediated Reinforcement?
    It’s not wrong to associate sterotypic behaviors with automatic reinforcement— but there are other factors to consider. PTB co-founder Dana Meller offers a quick explainer to clear up the confusion. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section B-7: Define and provide examples of automatic and socially mediated contingencies.
  • Dana Do's: If All Prompts Prompt Behavior, What's the Difference?
    If all prompts prompt behavior, how can you tell the different between stimulus and response prompts? PTB co-founder Dana Meller simplifies it with one word. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section G-4: Use stimulus and response prompts and fading (e.g., errorless, most-to-least, least-to-most, prompt delay, stimulus fading).
  • Self-management: one process, two behaviors. PTB co-founder Dana Meller explains controlled vs controlling response, and shares real-life examples of how they are used together in self-management strategies.Dana Do's: Fun Fact. The Process of Self-Management Requires Two Behaviors
    Self-management: one process, two behaviors. PTB co-founder Dana Meller explains controlled vs controlling response, and shares real-life examples of how they are used together in self-management strategies.
  • 4 Paths to Becoming a BCBA®The Path(s) to Becoming a BCBA®
    Currently, there are four paths to meet the eligibility requirements, though it’s important to note that the BACB® will be revising the pathways in 2027.
  • What Is a BCBA® Certification and Why Get One?
    The Board Certified Behavior Analyst® exam (or, BCBA® exam) is a graduate-level certification in behavior analysis administered by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board® (BACB).
  • Beat the Odds: Factors that Impact Performance on the BCBA® Exam
    Though the exam may be difficult, it’s not impossible to achieve a passing score. There are several ways students can improve their chances and beat the odds. The right preparation is essential.
  • How Hard is it to Pass the BCBA® Exam? 
    The question every future BCBA® inevitably asks: how hard is it to pass the BCBA® exam? If you’ve heard the stories or seen the data, then you know the exam has a reputation for being difficult. Ask around and you’ll likely hear that it’s sort of like running a marathon. But barefoot, on broken glass, in a giant corn maze, guarded by storm troopers and you can’t remember where you left your lightsaber…oh, and your headphones just died. 
  • It often feels like the board is asking candidates to study concepts you may never use in practice. PTB co-founder Dana Meller explains why that's actually inaccurate. The philosophical assumptions underlying the science of behavior analysis is so much more integral than just passing the big exam. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section A-2: Explain the philosophical assumptions underlying the science of behavior analysis (e.g., selectionism, determinism, empiricism, parsimony, pragmatism).Dana Do's: What Do Philosophical Assumptions Got To Do With It?
    It often feels like the board is asking candidates to study concepts you may never use in practice. PTB co-founder Dana Meller explains why that's actually inaccurate. The philosophical assumptions underlying the science of behavior analysis is so much more integral than just passing the big exam.
  • 10 Positive Effects From Prioritizing Self-Care
    Self-care. It’s a bit of a broad term, and a total buzzword these days. It’s often used in the context of bubble baths and “unplugging.” But, at its core, self-care is about more than just “me-time.” It’s about taking care of yourself in a way that works best for you and your lifestyle.
  • 5 Ways to Make the Big Exam Feel Less Scary
    #1: Arm Yourself (With Knowledge) As they say, knowledge is power, and the best defense on exam day is knowing your stuff. It’s ok to reschedule if you’re not ready.…
  • Feeling isolated on ABA islandDana Do's: Feeling Isolated on ABA Island
    The life of a behavior professional can be rewarding, but it can also be a little lonely. PTB co-founder Dana Meller shares her experience with overcoming isolation with some recommendations for students and current BCBAs.
  • Desk Yoga: 7 Stretches for Your Next Study Session
    Long days and even longer study sessions, can leave your back and neck feeling stiff. Luckily, PTB has just the thing: 7 desk-friendly, do-anywhere yoga moves. While it can’t replace your regular yoga routine, these stretches can help you reset your mind and body when you’re glued to your desk (or couch, or kitchen chair). 
  • Five tips to make your study space more soothing5 Science-Backed Tips to Make Your Study Space More Soothing
    #1 – Declutter to De-stress Fortunately, this first tip costs nothing. Unfortunately, it may require a bit of elbow grease. Organizing your study or work station can help you better…
  • 6 Stress Tips for Managing BCBA® Exam PrepKeep Calm and Study On: 6 Strategies for Managing Test Prep Stress 
    It goes without saying that studying for the BCBA® exam is stressful. The experience can fray the nerves of even the most level-headed student. If you’re feeling the test prep…
  • From PTB’s Test (Prep) Kitchens: A Brain-Boosting Berry Smoothie
    It’s important to fuel your brain and body with nutritious food that will give you the energy to power through long days and even longer study sessions. But, between school,…
  • What chaining methods to use on what behaviors.Dana Do's: What Chaining Method to Use When?
    The books don't really say much about what chaining methods BCBA's should apply to what behaviors. PTB co-founder Dana Meller breaks it down. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section G-8: Use chaining.
  • Go behind the scenes with PTB co-founder Dana Meller for the making of the PTB Streaming Lecture Series.Behind the Scenes of the Big Exam Prep Workshop
    Known for her trademark humor and clinical knowledge, PTB co-founder Dana Meller takes students behind the scenes of creating the PTB Streaming Lecture Series, a collection of 9 pre-recorded lectures covering each of the BCBA® 5th edition task list sections.
  • What are the Markers of a Good Supervisor?Dana Do's: What are the Markers of a Good Supervisor?
    PTB co-founder Dana Meller identifies the markers of being a good supervisor. BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section I-8: Evaluate the effects of supervision (e.g., on client outcomes, on supervisee repertoires).
  • By examining BACB Task List verbs, you can actually determine the specific type of discrimination required in your BCBA exam studies.Dana Do's: Yes, verbs are clues that can help you prep for the BCBA exam
    PTB co-founder Dana Meller shares how the verbs used in the Task List can provide you with significant clues for effective studying. By examining task list verbs, you can actually determine the specific type of discrimination required in your studies. Learn how understanding these verbs can guide your preparation and better equip you for success on the big exam.
  • 5 Test-Taking Tips to Help You Pass the BCBA® Exam 
    Prep the Night Before Pack up everything you’ll need for exam day the night before so you won’t need to worry about it the day of. Are you wearing comfortable…
  • 6 Science-Backed Study Tips for Your Next Study Session
    Switch Up Your Environment Studying in a new environment has been shown to help improve memory and concentration levels. Try studying at a coffee shop, library, or a new spot…
  • PTB Study Essentials for BCBA® exam prepAdd to Cart: PTB’s Study Essentials
    When it comes to test-prep, you need the right tools for the job. PTB has compiled a must-have list of study supplies so you can stock up on your next…
  • How to decode the BACB® ethics code.Dana Do's: How to Decode the Code
    PTB co-founder Dana Meller suggests that memorizing the sections of the BACB® Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts will in fact help you make correct discriminations when prepping for the BCBA® exam.
  • Why Retaker Odds Are LowerDana Do's: Why BCBA® Retaker Odds are Lower
    There's a danger of studying only the score report. PTB co-founder Dana Meller offers insight on why it's important to study like a test virgin.
  • Freaking Out Over the BCBA® ExamDana Do's: That Feeling of Freaking Out Over the BCBA® Exam
    Everyone feels like they won't pass the BCBA® exam, not just you. PTB co-founder Dana Meller talks about the experiences her students share as they prep for the exam. And surprise surprise, you are not alone in feeling scared, dealing with the pressures of everyday life, and trying to negotiate so many variables. If that's you and you're struggling, the good news is that it's temporary. And the payoff, that is fantastic.
  • The Task List is a Jigsaw PuzzleDana Do's: Imagine the Task List is a Jigsaw Puzzle
    PTB cofounder, Dana Meller treats the task list like a puzzle, and so should you. Like a puzzle, all the task list items are interconnected. To be exam ready, you need all the pieces, and every piece needs to be in place.
  • Look at the World Behavior AnalyticallyDana Do's: Looking at the World Behavior Analytically
    Why should you look at the world behavior analytically? Because it will help you build ABA fluency.
  • How to Optimize MemorizationDana Do's: How to Optimize Memorization
    PTB Co-founder Dana Meller reinforces the importance of memorization and offers some practical, empirically validated tips for memorizing the task list.
  • Memorization, application and comprehension are key to building fluency.Dana Do's: Get Your M.A.C. Skills Together
    PTB co-founder Dana Meller offers a key to building fluency and BCBA® exam readiness. Memorization. Application. Comprehension.
  • Dealing with the Frustration of Missing the BCBA® Passing Score by a Few PointsDana Do's: Dealing with the Frustration of Failing the BCBA® Exam
    PTB cofounder Dana Meller offers some unsolicited advice for candidates who have experienced the frustration of failing the BCBA® exam by only a few points.
  • Why You're Not Passing the BCBA® ExamDana Do's: Why You're Not Passing the BCBA® Exam
    PTB cofounder Dana Meller helps candidates retaking the exam consider a functional approach to defining the obstacles holding them back.
  • Shortcuts to BCBA® exam prep don't workDana Do's: Short Cuts Don't Work
    PTB co-founder Dana Meller talks about avoiding shortcuts in your exam prep. Becoming a BCBA® is not just about passing the Big Exam, it is about taking on a professional identity.
  • Why its Important to Speak ABADana Do's: The Importance of Speaking ABA
    PTB co-founder Dana Meller shares the importance of speaking ABA and being able to fluently read and understand the Cooper text in order to pass the big exam.
  • The ABC's of ABADana Do's: Understanding the ABC's of Behavior Used to Break Down Test Questions
    PTB co-founder Dana Meller shares how our ABA superpowers can be used to break down exam questions to organize BCBA® exam prep.
  • Put On Your BACB® Board HatDana Do's: Put On Your BACB® Board Hat
    Want to know what to study for the BCBA® exam? PTB co-founder Dana Meller reminds candidates that the exam is a knowledge assessment, not a skill assessment.
  • Advice for juggling life with exam prep.Dana Do's: BCBA® Exam Prep Studying Tips
    PTB co-founder Dana Meller shares helpful tips about incorporating studying into your already busy lives.
  • Use your BCBA® mock exam mistakes to assess how you test.Dana Do's: Use Mistakes to Assess How You Test
    PTB co-founder Dana Meller shares insights on how to use your mock BCBA® exam mistakes to assess and improve your test-taking behavior.
  • Final print of the 5th Edition PTB ABA Exam Study Manual.5th Edition Study Manual (Current Version 2.2) FINAL QUANTITY

    FINAL 5th Edition Run. Limited Quantity. FINAL SALE - NO RETURNS, REFUNDS OR EXCHANGES AFTER 9/24/24

    Universally recognized as the “other white book”, the comprehensive PTB ABA Exam Study Manual organizes and breaks down the complete 5th Edition Task List, distilling the Cooper text (Applied Behavior Analysis by John Cooper, Timothy Heron and William Heward) to include all critical exam concepts. The Manual is structured for quick navigation, contextualized with situational and relatable examples, salient visuals, and detailed explanations. In its 11th year of publication, the Manual is widely regarded as an ideal study companion and ABA bible, proving valuable as a quick reference tool beyond the exam. Save! Manual is $99 when purchased with the PTB 5th Edition Big Exam Prep Workshop. FREE SHIPPING (U.S. ONLY): Delivery within 7 - 10 business days. PRIORITY SHIPPING (U.S. ONLY): Delivery within 3 - 5 business days for an additional fee. Select USPS Priority at checkout. NOTE: Due to the Canada Post strike, international mail service to Canada has been disrupted. Because of this, PTB has temporarily suspended shipping to Canadian addresses until further notice.
  • Attention Multiple BCBA® Exam RetakersDana Do's: Attention Multiple BCBA® Retakers (You are Going to Want to Hear This)
    The data shows candidates struggle to pass the BCBA® exam on later attempts. PTB co-founder Dana Meller takes a deeper look at the data and offers a strategy for beating the retaker odds.
  • Dana Do's: The Scientific Goals of Behavior AnalysisDana Do's: The Scientific Goals of Behavior Analysis
    PTB co-founder Dana Meller takes on the first portion of the Task List with a quick lesson about section A-1. The secret sauce for understanding the goal of behavior analysis? It all comes down to description, prediction, and control.
  • It's particularly meaningful to be able to tell validity, social validity, internal and external validity apart.Dana Do's: How to Decipher the Many Forms of Validity
    It's particularly meaningful to be able to tell validity, social validity, internal and external validity apart. PTB co-founder Dana Meller has some tips to do just that.
  • Dana Do's: How to discriminate between dependent and independent variables.Dana Do's: How to Discriminate Dependent vs. Independent Variables If You're Not a Researcher
    Not a researcher? How about some help discriminating between dependent and independent variables. PTB co-founder Dana Meller offers a few tips to make that distinction on the BCBA® exam.
  • Dana Do's: How to Discriminate Between MOs and SDsDana Do's: How to Discriminate Between SDs & MOs
    PTB co-founder Dana Meller breaks down the distinction between motivating operations (MOs) and discriminative stimulus (SDs). Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Sections B-10: Define and provide examples of stimulus control; and B-12: Define and provide examples of motivating operations.
  • Advice for when you're stuck prepping for the BCBA® exam.Dana Do's: How to Get Unstuck When Studying for the BCBA®
    PTB co-founder Dana Meller explains how to use Multiple Exemplar training to improve your exam application skills. BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section: G-21 Use procedures to promote stimulus and response generalization.
  • Response Blocking vs. Extinction. BACB Task List Section G-16: Use positive and negative punishment (e.g., time-out, response cost, overcorrection).Dana Do's: Response Blocking vs. Extinction
    Want an easy way to make the correct discrimination between response blocking and extinction? PTB co-founder Dana Meller borrows from the #starwars universe to help explain. BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section: G-16 Use positive and negative punishment (e.g., time-out, response cost, overcorrection).
  • Understanding Operant and Respondent ConditioningDana's Do's: Conditioning Us to Understand Operant and Respondent Conditioning?
    PTB co-founder Dana Meller explains how one word can describe two different things. Here's how to practically understand the difference between operant and respondent conditioning. BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section B-3: Define and provide examples of respondent and operant conditioning.
  • A Prompt to Understand PromptingDana Do's: Need a Prompt to Understand Prompting?
    PTB co-founder Dana Meller shares a trick for discriminating between response and stimulus prompts. BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section G-4: Use stimulus and response prompts and fading (e.g., errorless, most-to-least, least-to-most, prompt delay, stimulus fading)
  • Dana's Do's: WWSD (What Would Skinner Do?) on Tax DayDana's Do's: WWSD (What Would #Skinner Do?) on Tax Day?
    PTB co-founder Dana Meller illustrates a perfect example of rule-governed behavior centered on our shared and dreaded annual Tax Day obligation. BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section B-13: Define and provide examples of rule-governed and contingency-shaped behavior.
  • 1-Minute Experimental Design Test HackDana Do's: 1-Minute Experimental Design Test Hack (you still have to study it though)
    PTB co-founder Dana Meller shares a huge secret to help break down experimental design questions. BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section D-3: Identify the defining features of single-subject experimental designs.
  • An easy way to break down the 7 dimensions of ABADana Do's: How to Easily Break Down the 7 Dimensions of ABA
    PTB co-founder Dana Meller shares an easy way to break down the 7 dimensions of ABA by using the dimensions to define what it means to be a behavior analyst, which in turn, makes it much easier to discriminate between each dimension. BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section A-5: Describe and define the dimensions of applied behavior analysis (Baer, Wolf, & Risley, 1968).
  • Programming Common StimuliDana Do's: Programming Common Stimuli
    PTB co-founder Dana Meller talks about programming common stimuli and how this method can help students feel more prepared on exam day. Refer to Task List section G-21: Use procedures to promote stimulus and response generalization.
  • Importance of Experimental DesignDana Do's: Importance of Experimental Design Fluency
    PTB co-founder Dana Meller talks about the importance of being fluent in experimental designs, not just to pass the exam, but to be a good clinician as well. Ref Section D-3: Identify the defining features of single-subject experimental designs (e.g., individuals serve as their own controls, repeated measures, prediction, verification, replication).
  • How to Know When You're Ready to Sit for the BCBA® ExamDana Do's: How to Know When You're Ready to Sit for the BCBA® Exam
    PTB co-founder Dana Meller talks about measuring exam readiness. How do you know if you’re ready to sit?
  • Using Stimulus Salience to Increase Studying EffectivenessDana Do's: Using Stimulus Salience to Increase Studying Effectiveness
    PTB co-founder Dana Meller discusses the ways in which you can increase your studying effectiveness through stimulus salience. We know that ABA works, and Dana reminds students to utilize basic ABA principles to help themselves prepare for the BCBA® exam. Refer to Task List section B-10: Define and provide examples of stimulus control.
  • How to Make Time for Studying for the BCBA® ExamDana Do's: How to Make Time for Studying for the BCBA® Exam
    PTB co-founder Dana Meller shares helpful tips about incorporating studying into your already busy lives.
  • Dana Do's: The Secret to Test Questions
    PTB co-founder Dana Meller shares a surprisingly easy trick to interpret the call-to-action of a mock or actual test question on the BCBA® or BCaBA® exam.
  • You know what they say about making assumptions on the BCBA® exam.Dana Do's: The Problem With Making Assumptions on the BCBA® Exam
    PTB co-founder Dana Meller shares practical insight on the importance of approaching exam questions at face value.
  • PTB founder Dana Meller follows up on a tricky edition of Name That Term to explain derived stimulus relation vs. stimulus equivalence.Dana Do's: Clarifying Confusion Between Derived Stimulus Relation and Stimulus Equivalence
    PTB founder Dana Meller clarifies confusion to explain derived stimulus relation vs. stimulus equivalence.
  • For BCBA® exam candidates, time management is the name of the game right now. PTB has 5 additional ways to better organize a packed schedule.Perfect Timing: More Tips for Better Time Management
    There are (unfortunately) only 24 hours in a day– and that goes for everyone, including Beyoncé. For BCBA® exam candidates, time management is the name of the game right now.…
  • Eight guidelines for modeling.Dana Do's: 8 Guidelines for Using Modeling
    Get ready to model as PTB founder Dana Meller walks you through the eight specific guidelines for using modeling.
  • How to assess quality test prep materials.Three Hallmarks of High Quality Test Prep
    Preparing for the BCBA® exam is a marathon– and a dizzying one at that. There are an overwhelming number of options out there for study materials… So how do you…
  • What kind of learner are you? PTB co-founder Dana Meller spells out the differences between flashcards and SAFMEDS, so you can pick the best study tool based on how you learn.Dana Do's: SAFMEDS or Flashcards? How to Choose the Tool Most Effective for You
    What kind of learner are you? PTB co-founder Dana Meller spells out the differences between flashcards and SAFMEDS so you can pick the best study tool based on how you learn.
  • Power through your exam prep with foods that fuel.Fuel Your Focus: 5 Foods That Help You Study
    Preparing for the BCBA® exam takes focus, stamina, and a whole lot of brain power. You’ve got to learn the entire Task List– from top to bottom– plus, the ethics…
  • The PTB ABA Exam Study Manual: A Guide to the Other 'White Book'
    The PTB ABA Exam Study Manual has become a mainstay of BCBA® exam prep– and with good reason. Expertly written to break down the critical Task List information the BACB®…
  • Dana Do's: Tips for Exam Questions About Ethics
    There is a difference between ethical decision-making in practice, versus ethical decision-making on test question scenarios.
  • Get the Scoop: What You Need to Know About the BACB’s Transition to the 6th Edition
    You may have heard horror stories about the last BACB transition from the 4th to the 5th edition Task List. Not without good reason, too. The 5th edition brought changes to the supervision requirements, an increase to the number of test questions, and the introduction of the Ethics Code. Luckily, this time around won’t be such a shake up. Candidates caught on the cusp of this transition will be relieved to know that most of the updates are minor. Many find these transitions intimidating and overwhelming because they think they’ll have to learn an entire list of new information. Thankfully, that’s not the case. Think of it as more of a restructuring, rather than a total revamp.
  • Dana's Do's: Struggling with ABA Jargon? Watch This.
    The clinical jargon of ABA can be one of the most intimidating parts of BCBA® exam prep. However, as PTB co-founder Dana Meller explains, understanding the source material like textbooks and literature— no matter how dense they may be— is imperative for exam day success.
  • 5-Foods to boost your brainpower when studying for the BCBA® exam5 Foods to Boost Brainpower While Studying
    #1 Green tea You’d be hard pressed to find an ABA student who isn’t reaching for caffeine in one form or another. Try sipping on green tea the next time…
  • PTB co-founder offers a new approach to reframing your mindset when answering questions on the BCBA® exam that may help you beat the odds.Dana Do's: What Would Cooper Do?
    PTB co-founder offers a new approach to reframing your mindset when answering questions on the BCBA® exam that may help you beat the odds.
  • Shopping Cart

    DAYS LEFT TO PASS

    Exam Changes to 6th Ed TCO on Jan. 1, 2025

    Days : Hours : Minutes : Seconds

    PASS IN 2024
    Scroll to Top