HomeBxLogGet the Scoop: What You Need to Know About the BACB’s Transition to the 6th Edition Get the Scoop: What You Need to Know About the BACB’s Transition to the 6th Edition December 1, 2023 Think back to February 2022. Feels like a lifetime ago, right? You might recall that’s when the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) first announced the timing for the 6th edition. It probably didn’t seem so pressing then, especially with the 5th edition still fresh, having gone into effect just a month prior. But now, 2025 will be here before you know it and the 6th edition is looming large. While change isn’t always easy, you have nothing to worry about. Settle in, unclench your jaw, and get the scoop on everything you need to know about the 6th edition before it takes effect on January 1, 2025. Breathe Easy: This Won’t Be Like Last Time 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. The exam will still follow the same format and still have the same number of questions. Though, it’s important to note, the division of questions will change. In accordance with the 6th edition transition. The exam will be updated with an overall more proportional distribution of questions per section. From Task List to Test Content Outline (TCO) While there are no big changes to core concepts, and the exam won’t be all that different, the 6th edition does have one pretty significant update worth-mentioning: the Task List is now called the Test Content Outline (TCO). Another change of note, instead of Task List “sections,” they’ll now be referred to as “domains.” In their February 2022 newsletter announcing the transition, the BACB provided more insight into their reasons behind the switch. Citing the rapid growth of the field, the BACB noted that the scope of the Task List has grown beyond its intended use; cautioning that it should not serve as an “all-encompassing” list of “critical behavior-analytic content.” With the transition to the TCO model, the BACB hopes to reaffirm its purpose as an exam guideline for BCBA and BCaBA candidates. Moving to the TCO model also provides the board with improved flexibility, enabling them to adapt the exam to changes within the industry. In the same February 2022 newsletter, the BACB stated the new Test Content Outline approach allows for the TCO to be updated “independent of changes to certification requirements,” allowing exam content to be revised on a more frequent basis. This increased responsiveness is possible, according to the BACB, “due to the relative stabilization of TCO content and certification requirements.” Diving Deeper: Details on the New TCO With the new Test Content Outline comes new tasks and new titles. The 6th edition now has 104 tasks (up from 5th edition’s 92) and there are new titles for two of the sections. The BACB reorganized the content for “better flow” and to “eliminate duplications across domains,” as part of their reconsideration of the previous Task List. Here’s a quick breakdown of the most significant changes: Section A Previously called Philosophical Underpinnings, it will now be known as “Domain A. Behaviorism and Philosophical Foundations.” Section B No change to the name. However, Concepts and Principles, Section B. saw the biggest increase in the number of tasks– 24 in the 6th edition, up from 15 tasks in the 5th edition. Section D Not-so-great news: Experimental Design, already a bane to many students, sees an increase in the number of tasks– now 9, up from 6 in the 5th edition. Section E Previously titled Ethics (Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts), it will now be known as “Domain E. Ethical and Professional Issues.” Additionally, it now includes 12 specific tasks rather than references to the entire Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts. When– and How– to Prepare Many universities and ABA programs are already in the process of switching their curriculum over to the 6th edition TCO. While this gives current and future students a clear path to the new 6th edition TCO and the exam, the transition can get confusing for those closer to exam day than graduation day. If you’re not eligible for the exam until later in 2024, you should consider the possibility that you’ll have to take–or retake– the exam under the 6th edition guidelines. For those on the cusp, with a course sequence that was still under the 5th edition, it can be beneficial to familiarize yourself with the 6th edition changes. As with the previous transition to the 5th Edition, PTB offers a free Crosswalk to the 6th Edition for students caught in between the old Task List and the new Test Content Outline. If you’re testing well before January 1, 2025, chances are, you can continue preparing for the exam as you have been. However, don’t think you’re entirely off the hook. Future and current BCBAs have a duty to stay current on the latest industry standards and this includes updates to the BACB’s guidelines. Education should continue beyond certification, so even if you won’t be testing under the 6th edition, it’s still a good idea to familiarize yourself with the updated guidelines– especially if you plan to supervise future BCBA candidates. Make note of any textbook updates, too, in case those have been updated in recent years. While the foundation of Applied Behavior Analysis as a science doesn’t change, any field of science evolves with new discoveries and breakthroughs. The BACB updates the exam and testing content based on the science, so it’s important to have the most recent foundational texts on-hand. Stay up to date by subscribing to the BACB and PTB newsletters. 5th Edition Task List©Behavior Analyst Certification Board®. All rights reserved. Reprinted and/or displayed by permission granted in 2022. The most current versions of these documents are available at www.BACB.com. Contact the BACB® for permission to reprint and/or display this material. Study Manual Related Content Code’s definition of website A digital platform found through a web browser where an entity (individual and/or organization) produces and distributes digital content for the consumption of users online. Depending on the functionality, users…Code’s definition of behavior analyst An individual who holds BCBA® or BCaBA® certification or who has submitted a complete application for BCBA® or BCaBA® certification.Code’s definition of behavior-change intervention The full set of behavioral procedures designed to improve the client’s wellbeing.Code’s definition of behavioral services Services that are explicitly based on the principles and procedures of behavior analysis and are designed to change behavior in meaningful ways. These services include, but are not limited to,…Code’s definition of client The direct recipient of the behavior analyst’s services. At various times during service provision, one or more stakeholders may simultaneously meet the definition of client (e.g., the point at which…Code’s definition of clients’ rights Human rights, legal rights, rights codified within behavior analysis, and organization rules designed to benefit the client.Code’s definition of conflict of interest An incompatibility between a behavior analysts’ private and professional interests resulting in risk or potential risk to services provided to, or the professional relationship with, a client, stakeholder, supervisee, trainee,…Code’s definition of digital content Information that is made available for online consumption, downloading, and/or distribution through an electronic medium (e.g., television, radio, eBook, website, social media, videogame, application, computer, smart device). Common digital content…Code’s definition of informed consent (service/research) The permission given by an individual with the legal right to consent before participating in services or research, or allowing their information to be used or shared. Providing the opportunity…Code’s definition of legally authorized representative Any individual authorized under law to provide consent on behalf of an individual who cannot provide consent to receive services or participate in research.Code’s definition of multiple relationship A comingling of two or more of a behavior analyst’s roles (e.g., behavioral and personal) with a client, stakeholder, supervisee, trainee, research participant, or someone closely associated with or related…Code’s definition of public statements Delivery of information (digital or otherwise) in a public forum for the purpose of either better informing that audience or providing a call-to-action. This includes paid or unpaid advertising, brochures,…Code’s definition of informed consent (information use/sharing) Information Use/Sharing: Providing the opportunity for an individual to give informed consent to share or use their information involves communicating about: 1) the purpose and intended use; 2) the audience;…Code’s definition of research Any data-based activity, including analysis of preexisting data, designed to generate generalizable knowledge for the discipline. The use of an experimental design does not by itself constitute research.Code’s definition of research participant Any individual participating in a defined research study for whom informed consent has been obtained.Code’s definition of research review committee A group of professionals whose stated purpose is to review research proposals to ensure the ethical treatment of human research participants. This committee might be an official entity of a…Code’s definition of scope of competence The professional activities a behavior analyst can consistently perform with proficiency.Code’s definition of social media channels A digital platform, either found through a web browser or through an application, where users (individuals and/or businesses) can consume, create, copy, download, share, or comment on posts or advertisements.…Code’s definition of stakeholder An individual, other than the client, who is impacted by and invested in the behavior analyst’s services (e.g., parent, caregiver, relative, legally authorized representative, collaborator, employer, agency or institutional representatives,…Code’s definition of supervisee Any individual whose behavioral service delivery is overseen by a behavior analyst within the context of a defined, agreed- upon relationship. Supervisees may include RBT®s, BCaBA®s, and BCBA®s, as well…Code’s definition of testimonial Any solicited or unsolicited recommendation, in any form, from a client, stakeholder, supervisee, or trainee affirming the benefits received from a behavior analyst’s product or service. From the point at…Code’s definition of third-party Any individual, group of individuals, or entity, other than the direct recipient of services, the primary caregiver, the legally authorized representative, or the behavior analyst, who requests and funds services…Code’s definition of trainee Any individual accruing fieldwork/experience toward fulfilling eligibility requirements for BCaBA® or BCBA® certification.BACB®’s definition of applied behavior analysis (ABA) A science based on the use of learning principles to improve socially important behavior. ABA practice focuses on assessing the environmental influences on behavior, implementing assessment-based interventions, and making data-based…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.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. 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).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.…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…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.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…Five 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,…The 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 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…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,…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 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.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…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.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. 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 ConsentGet 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.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. 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. 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.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). 5 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…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. 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.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). 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.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…Add 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…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. Dana 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.Dana 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.Dana 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. Dana 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.Dana 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.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. Dana 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. Dana 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. Dana 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. Dana 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?Dana 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.Dana 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.Dana 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.Dana Do's: BCBA® Exam Prep Studying Tips PTB co-founder Dana Meller shares helpful tips about incorporating studying into your already busy lives. Dana 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 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.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. 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. 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