HomeBxLogThe PTB ABA Exam Study Manual: A Guide to the Other ‘White Book’ The PTB ABA Exam Study Manual: A Guide to the Other ‘White Book’ March 7, 2024 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® expects candidates to know, it has become an invaluable resource and the perfect complement to the Cooper book (Applied Behavior Analysis by John Cooper, Timothy Heron and William Heward). You know the one. It’s Big, white, and denser than a rutabaga (and like any vegetable, it’s an essential part of your ABA diet). Well, the PTB Exam ABA Study Manual is the other “White Book.” Luckily, this one is designed to focus exclusively on the exam content. Plus, it’s got pictures and weighs a whole lot less. Curious about the most-trusted BCBA® study manual? Here is everything you need to know about using– and loving– the other “White Book.” The Original and the Best Developed by Pass the Big ABA Exam founder Dana Meller nearly 12 years ago as a compilation of her own exam prep notes, the PTB ABA Exam Study Manual was the first– and continues to be the only one-of-its-kind study guide for the BCBA® exam. Its signature blend of clinical language and relatable, real-world examples have made the other “White Book” a must-have for ABA students around the world. Yes, the world. If you’re on the path to certification, consider the other “White Book” your trusted travel companion. As with all of PTB’s pioneering prep tools, the PTB ABA Exam Study Manual is sourced from academic literature and the foundational scientific text (like the Copper book). The other “White Book” distills those essential ABA textbooks, to contextualize Cooper and the science of ABA with situational and relatable examples, salient visuals, and detailed explanations. It provides an organized and simplified breakdown of high-level ABA concepts in one convenient, easy-to-navigate compendium. The First Step in Prep As a quick-reference manual, it is organized by Task List Section. Each chapter of the PTB ABA Exam Study Manual thoroughly covers every Section item and its core concepts. Designed for maximum comprehension, it contains helpful tips, acronyms, and AKAs (PTB’s shorthand for connecting terms that sound different but share similar meaning). You’ll also see some familiar faces in behavior analysis, too. Afterall, what study guide would be complete without B.F. Skinner and John B. Watson making an appearance? For increased visual saliency, the PTB ABA Exam Study Manual is stuffed with colorful charts and graphics, highlighted hints, and color-coded headlines to emphasize key information. At the end of each chapter, there’s a Section review with quiz questions that thoroughly cover each item within the Task List. This active-learning technique, in addition to the other modalities and memorization tools, allow for deeper, long-term comprehension. PTB always recommends using multiple study methods and strategies, and the other “White Book” makes the perfect sidekick. Use it in tandem with flashcards, SAFMEDS, or whatever approach works best for you. For those who prefer a hands-on learning style, the PTB ABA Exam Study Manual and the PTB Big Exam Prep Workshop are an especially effective pair. The signature workshop combines PTB’s trademark study protocol with the other “White Book”’s fluency-building design, to create a multi-modal approach to exam prep that reinforces essential knowledge. Certification and Beyond You won’t want to let this one collect dust on the shelf (but it probably won’t get the chance to). The other “White Book” comes in handy even after certification. Its unique blend of clinical and colloquial language lends itself nicely– and practically– to everyday use. Even PTB co-founder Dana Meller still finds herself reaching for the other “White Book” when she needs to brush up, double check, or find a certain formula. Of course, it’s no replacement for the direct sources (like the almighty Cooper book), but it does come in handy for looking up concepts or definitions. BCBA® supervisors can benefit from the other “White Book”, too. It is an invaluable resource for staying current on the BACB® Task List updates and guidelines. Use it alongside your other supervision activities to ensure your supervisees are meeting their fluency and clinical objectives and are on their way to becoming a successful and certified BCBA®. Whether you’re new to the world of Cooper and ABA, or a seasoned pro, the PTB ABA Exam Study Manual is an essential part of any behavior analyst’s library. It’s an expert overview of the BCBA® Task List that you’ll reach for before and after exam day. Don’t have your own copy yet? Take a look inside the iconic other “White Book”. Study Manual Related Content 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. 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.
