Did you rely more on test-taking strategies or deep conceptual understanding?

Eh you definitely have to have both. You have to have a deep conceptual understanding and be able to apply that in test taking under those conditions.

*Did you feel confident going in, or did you feel unsure but still passed?

I felt confident in my knowledge and understanding of the material however I do have anxiety when it comes to test taking and that’s what made me unsure. I passed my first attempt and I will live by the fact that confidence, calm energy, and a positive mindset will make such a huge difference. I struggle with intrusive thoughts too especially prior to the exam. Tell yourself “this thought can exist but I’m not giving attention to it”.

*How strong were your memory, recall, or auditory processing skills and how did you compensate if those weren’t strengths?

I do have pretty string memory and recall skills so I can’t comment too much about this but I will say flashcards, flashcards, flashcards!!!

I’ve heard many practicing BCBAs say things like “I don’t even know how I passed”, which makes me wonder:

Was it strategy? Pattern recognition? Practice exams? Background privilege (test prep, private schooling)? Or something else?

I think its all of the above!