BxLog is PTB’s exam prep blog, edited and curated by veteran ABA professionals with a mission to provide candidates helpful tools and guidance along their BCBA® exam prep journey. Explore short videos and articles containing valuable information including explanations of Task List concepts and ABA terminology, study tips, mock exam questions with answer breakdowns, and lifestyle advice to maintain a healthy exam prep regimen.
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 Read More
It’s common for students to experience anxiety when taking tests, which can negatively impact performance. Beyond the physical effects– like problems sleeping, procrastinating, and an increased heart rate– anxiety can also disrupt concentration and decision making, and make it more difficult to think clearly.
Are You a Bad Test-Taker: Strategies for Overcoming Exam Anxiety Read More
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.
The Path(s) to Becoming a BCBA® Read More
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).
What Is a BCBA® Certification and Why Get One? Read More
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.
Beat the Odds: Factors that Impact Performance on the BCBA® Exam Read More
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.
How Hard is it to Pass the BCBA® Exam? Read More
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’s Do’s: Struggling with ABA Jargon? Watch This. Read More
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.
Dana Do’s: What Do Philosophical Assumptions Got To Do With It? Read More
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.
10 Positive Effects From Prioritizing Self-Care Read More
#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.
5 Ways to Make the Big Exam Feel Less Scary Read More