breaking down the questions Part 1
Navigating the questions on the ASWB exam can be a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be overwhelming. With the right strategies and approach, you can effectively break down and conquer even the most challenging questions. In this blog, we'll explore proven techniques for dissecting ASWB exam questions. From careful analysis to strategic thinking, mastering these strategies will empower you to approach the exam with confidence and clarity. So, let's dive in and uncover the keys to unlocking success on the ASWB exam!
These are strategies for approaching the ASWB questions to help you perform your best on the ASWB Exam.
Step 1: Read the question and only the question
Step 2: Identify: What is the question actually asking?
What details are given?
Who (Who is the client? Who is involved? Who is providing services?)
What (What is the issue? What is being asked? What is the present concern?)
Where (Where is the services setting? Where is the client in that treatment process?)
When (What is the timing set up for the question? When did an incident happen? When did a symptom onset?)
Why ( Why are services needed? Why was the referral made? Why is the question being presented?)
Step 3: Make your first guess based only on the question info.
Step 4: Look just at the question answers.
Step 5: Start working through the answer:
Which one can you eliminate?
Which one was closest to your initial guess?
Which one makes the most sense based on the facts of the question?
Read the question and only the question: Often test takers will read the questions and the answer altogether and become overwhelmed, or distracted or their thoughts may be biased by the content of the answers provided. Trust your study prep and pause after reading the question to think about what knowledge you have before influencing your thinking with any other materials.
Identify what the question is actually asking: When faced with an ASWB exam question, the first step is to decipher what the question is truly asking. Take a moment to carefully read the question stem and identify the key details provided. Pay attention to the who, what, where, when, and why aspects mentioned in the question. By breaking down these details, you can gain a clearer understanding of the context and purpose of the question, which will guide your approach to finding the correct answer.
Make your first guess based only on the question info: After understanding what the question is asking, it's time to make an initial guess based solely on the information provided in the question stem. Trust your instincts and go with the option that seems most logical or intuitive based on your understanding of the context. Even if you're unsure, taking a guess can help kickstart your thought process and lead you in the right direction.
Look just at the question answers: Once you have made your initial guess, shift your focus to the answer options provided. Take a moment to review each option individually, without referring back to the question stem. Evaluate each answer in isolation, considering its relevance and coherence with the information provided in the question. This approach can help prevent bias or undue influence from the question stem and allow you to assess each option objectively.
Start working through the answers: Now it is time to start eliminating answer options and narrowing down your choices. Begin by eliminating any options that are clearly incorrect or irrelevant based on the facts of the question. Then, compare the remaining options to your initial guess and the details provided in the question stem. Consider which option aligns most closely with your initial intuition and which one makes the most sense in light of the question's context. By systematically evaluating each answer option, you can increase your likelihood of selecting the correct answer.
