POP IN: September PTB MiniBig Sessions are Open for Registration

5 Ways to Reset and Recharge When Studying

Hitting the books for hours on end is enough to make even the most studious exam candidate feel burnt out and in need of a break. Studying is important, yes, but it’s also important to pace yourself and take a rest when you need it. However, how you take your study breaks can make resting even more impactful. Not sure how to step away from studying without scrolling on your phone? Here are five ways to make the most of your break time.

#1: Refuel and Rehydrate

It may seem like simple advice, but believe it or not, hunger and dehydration can have a Big impact on your mental state. Research shows that hunger can affect your focus, motivation, mood, and cognition. Adding to that, studies also show that dehydration can have similar effects on cognitive performance. If you feel a little foggy while studying, it may be time to take a break, eat a brain-boosting snack, and sip something hydrating.

#2: Get Moving

Staying active is important for both your physical and mental wellbeing. Exercise is known to reduce stress and release mood-improving endorphins, but the benefits don’t stop there. Physical activity can also improve cognitive function and increase blood flow to the brain. Studying almost always means sitting for long periods of time, which can make you feel sluggish. Recharge with a little movement, like a quick walk, some desk yoga, or dancing to your favorite music.

#3: Reward Yourself

From the pomodoro method to studying with gummy bears, rewarding yourself is a common tactic for staying on task. Keen BCBA® candidates will recognize this as reinforcement and it can be a useful tool in your exam prep repertoire. Rewarding yourself after a long stretch of learning can help you maintain your momentum and it can help reinforce good study habits– so you’ll be more likely to study in the future.

#4: Get Creative

Tapping into your creative side can help you regulate stress and improve your mood. In fact, even looking at art can help your brain form new connections and consider different perspectives. Take advantage of your study break and use that time for your favorite creative hobby. Not only will it help you unwind, but you’ll return with a refreshed mind and a cognitive boost.

#5: Change Locations

If you’ve been stuck at your desk or you’ve spent hours studying in the same spot, a change of scenery might be in order. Research shows that variety and novelty can boost your overall sense of wellbeing and improve your mood. One study found that participants who had more diverse experiences throughout their day reported feeling more positive emotions, such as happiness, excitement, and attentiveness.

There’s still time to go Big this fall with the PTB Big Exam Prep Workshop. Get complete TCO coverage and build fluency in 6 weeks with a hands-on masterclass that incorporates multiple learning modalities, including mock exams, live lectures, study halls, and more.

PTB has expanded the workshop schedule with a new October class. Register now for Sundays at 10:00 a.m. PST, starting October 19.

I WANT TO GO BIG

Compare and Contrast: Breaking Down Equity vs. Equality in ABA Supervision

As an exam candidate and future BCBA®, it’s imperative that you understand the supervision requirements in the Test Content Outline. Part of that includes promoting equity in supervision practices… But what does that mean exactly? PTB founder Dana Meller explains and highlights the important distinction between equity and equality.

Pop in for targeted prep without the workshop commitment. PTB MiniBig sessions offer a la carte classes that include a mock exam, live 3.5-hour lecture, and video replays. Get expert prep on your schedule.

Register now for the next PTB MiniBig session, covering the complete TCO, on Wednesday, September 17, at 3:00 p.m. PST.

I WANT TO GO MINI

REMINDER: Submit Your Application to the Fall 2025 PTB Scholarship by September 26

PTB is committed to supporting students throughout their certification journey. As part of PTB’s mission and commitment to student success, PTB offers a seasonal scholarship to help offset the financial strain associated with exam prep costs. Recipients of the PTB scholarship receive complimentary registration to the PTB Big Exam Prep Workshop, a PTB ABA Exam Study Manual, and a one-on-one mentoring session with PTB founder Dana Meller.

PTB is accepting applications for the fall 2025 PTB Scholarship through September 26, 2025. For consideration, submit a short essay about your path to certification, what inspires you to become a BCBA® and earn those four letters after your name.

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Word of the Week: Independent Group Contingency

Check out PTB's official online glossary with 528 essential ABA terms. Created by PTB founder Dana Meller, MA, BCBA and edited by Tyra Sellers, J.D., Ph.D., BCBA-D.

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