Study Tips

Although this material is not the most emphasized area of the exam, it surfaces enough that you should plan to spend a considerable amount of time reviewing domains that pertain to cognitive-affective bases of behavior. If you map what AATBS study sections encompass cognitive-affective bases of behavior, it would include material from the following domains: Learning theory and cognitive-behavioral interventions, social psychology, and lifespan development. This material again tends to be straight-forward and asks you to know and memorize terms, theories, and stages of development associated with this material.

Unfortunately, it’s often not enough to be a good social worker when it comes to taking and passing the social work exams. While having a good handle on information relevant to social work practice is important, this may also not be enough. Even very good social workers sometimes have a tough time passing their exams. Why might this be? Two reasons: 1) anxiety management and 2) test-taking strategy. The latter can often be the cure for the former.

Preparing for the social work exam can seem like an overwhelming task. After years of school, internships, and the application process itself, facing the prospect of months of study and practice can be daunting, to say the least. This is especially true if you don’t have a plan. Therefore, the best way to approach your exam prep is - with a plan! The last thing you want to do is spend weeks or months feeling unsure as to what you should be doing just to take the exam unprepared and risk the possibility of failing.

One of the best ways to help manage anxiety and stress as you prepare for your test date is to know what to expect! No one likes to be faced with unanticipated surprises, especially when already in a heightened state of stress. The more you know what to expect, the more prepared you will be to perform your best on test day.