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When Should You Start Studying for your ASWB Exam?

When Should You Start Studying for your ASWB Exam?

When it comes to passing the ASWB (Association of Social Work Boards) exam, one of the questions that nearly every candidate asks is, “When should I start studying for the ASWB exam?”

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the ins and outs of timing your study schedule just right. We’ll cover why it’s crucial to start early, how to break down the task into bite-sized, manageable pieces, and even how to keep yourself motivated when the going gets tough.

Learn more about the ASWB exam and create a personalized ASWB study plan with Agents of Change. We’ve helped thousands of Social Workers pass their ASWB exams and want to help you be next!

1) The Big Question: When to Start?

“When should you start studying for your ASWB exam?” It’s the question that looms over many social worker’s heads. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but by the end of this section, you’ll have a clearer idea of how to pinpoint your personal kickoff time. Build the perfect ASWB exam study plan with our automatic and personalized study plan builder.

Personalize Your Timeline

  • Assess Your Current Obligations: Are you working full-time? Juggling parenting responsibilities? Factor in all your commitments to gauge how much study time you can realistically carve out each day or week.
  • Know Yourself: Your study habits and learning style are critical in deciding when to start. If you’re someone who thrives under pressure, a shorter, more focused study period might work. If you’re someone who likes to ruminate on information, give yourself a longer runway.

The Rule of Thumb (With Flexibility)

We recommend about 2 to 3 months of prep time. Why this range, you ask? It’s long enough to cover all the material without rushing but not so long that you risk losing momentum or forgetting what you learned at the start.

  • For the Busy Bees: If your schedule is packed to the brim, leaning towards the 3-month mark (or slightly more) is wise. This allows for shorter daily study sessions, which can fit more easily into a hectic lifestyle.
  • For the Sprinters: If you have the luxury of dedicating more time each day to study, or if you’re on a tighter timeline, aiming for the 2-month mark could be your sweet spot. This requires discipline and a more intensive daily study schedule but can be highly effective for those who prefer immersion learning.

Learn more about active reading strategies here.

Start Sooner for Foundation Building

If you’re new to some of the ASWB exam content areas or if it’s been a while since you’ve hit the books, consider starting your prep even earlier. Use the extra time for foundational learning—getting reacquainted with critical theories, concepts, and practices in Social Work. This isn’t about memorizing exam material just yet; it’s about building a solid base to support your more focused study later on.

  • Brush Up on Basics: If terms like “ecosystems theory” or “motivational interviewing” make you go, “Huh?” it might be a good idea to start with some preliminary reading or coursework to get up to speed.

Agents of Change has more than 30 visual and audio lessons to help you prepare for your ASWB exam.

Timing Your Practice Tests

Practice tests are your best friend when prepping for the ASWB exam. They not only familiarize you with the exam format but also highlight areas where you need more review. Sprinkle these throughout your study timeline, starting with a diagnostic test to set your baseline.

Plan for another halfway through your prep to measure progress, and one or two more closer to your exam date to fine-tune your knowledge and test-taking strategy.

  • Early On: Use practice tests to identify weak spots.
  • Midway Through: Gauge your progress and adjust your study plan as needed.
  • Closer to Exam Day: Build confidence and improve your timing under exam conditions.

All Agents of Change programs include hundreds of practice questions and premium programs include full-length practice exams.

The Bottom Line

When it comes to deciding when to start studying for your ASWB exam, the key is to find that sweet spot between giving yourself enough time to prepare thoroughly and keeping the fire of motivation burning bright.

Start by taking a hard look at your own life, responsibilities, and learning style. Then, factor in a little wiggle room for life’s inevitable curveballs.

2) Study Tips and Tricks

Alright, you’ve got your timeline set, and you’re ready to hit the ground running. But before you dive headfirst into the sea of ASWB exam prep material, let’s arm you with some study tips and tricks that’ll make your journey bearable and enjoyable. Yes, you heard that right—studying for the ASWB exam doesn’t have to be a drag!

Diversify Your Study Methods

Mix things up to keep your study sessions fresh and engaging.

  • Visual Aids: Who doesn’t love a good chart or infographic? Visual aids can help cement concepts in your mind better than text alone.
  • Flashcards: Good old flashcards are great for memorization. And hey, there’s an app for that! Digital flashcard apps can be super handy for studying on the go.
  • Study Groups: Joining a study group can provide support, motivation, and different perspectives on the material.

All Agents of Change programs include 2 live study groups per month!

Create a Study Space

Your environment can significantly impact your ability to focus and retain information. Create a dedicated study space that’s comfortable, quiet, and free from distractions.

  • Comfort is Key: Make sure your chair and desk (or whatever setup you prefer) are comfortable for long study sessions.
  • Minimize Distractions: This might mean studying in a room away from the TV or using apps that block social media on your computer or phone.
  • Set the Mood: Some people study best in complete silence, while others prefer background music or ambient sounds. Figure out what works best for you and set up your space accordingly.

Schedule Regular Breaks

Marathon study sessions can lead to burnout and diminishing returns. It’s crucial to take regular breaks to rest your brain and body.

  • The Pomodoro Technique: Study for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. After four cycles, take a longer break. This method can help keep your mind fresh and focused.
  • Get Moving: Use your breaks to stretch, walk around, or do a quick workout. Physical activity can boost your energy levels and help reduce stress.

Learn more: Anatomy Of An ASWB Study Session: Structuring Your Time Effectively

Practice Self-Compassion

Remember, you’re human. There will be days when you don’t get as much done as you’d hoped, and that’s okay. Be kind to yourself.

  • Set Realistic Goals: Don’t set yourself up for failure with unrealistic study goals. It’s better to have a consistent, manageable plan than to go all out and burn out.
  • Reward Yourself: Finished a tough chapter? Aced a practice test? Treat yourself! Whether it’s a favorite snack, an episode of your favorite show, or a quick catch-up with a friend, small rewards can boost your morale and motivation.

Stay Healthy

Your brain can’t function at its best if you’re not taking care of your body. Make sure to prioritize your health during your study period.

  • Eat Well: Brain food is a thing. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins can help boost your cognitive function and energy levels.
  • Sleep Well: Never underestimate the power of a good night’s sleep, especially before study sessions and, most importantly, before the exam.
  • Manage Stress: Find healthy ways to manage stress, like meditation, yoga, or deep-breathing exercises. Keeping stress at bay can improve your concentration and efficiency.

Use Technology Wisely

  • Educational Apps and Websites: There are many apps and websites dedicated to ASWB exam prep. Find ones that suit your learning style and use them to supplement your studies. Agents of Change has helped tens of thousands of Social Workers pass their licensing exams.
  • Online Forums and Communities: Online communities can be great for seeking advice, finding study resources, and connecting with fellow ASWB exam takers.
  • Limit Distractions: While technology can be helpful, it can also be a major distraction. Be disciplined about your use of social media, streaming services, and other online distractions during study time.

Learn more additional tips and tricks for the ASWB exam and get hundreds of practice questions with Agents of Change!

3) FAQs – When Should You Start Studying?

Q: How Can I Balance Studying for the ASWB Exam with Work and Other Commitments?

A: Balancing study time with work, family, and other obligations is a challenge many ASWB exam candidates face. Here’s how you can manage:

  • Create a Study Schedule: Map out a realistic study plan that fits into your existing schedule. Be specific about when and where you’ll study each day, even if it’s just in short bursts. All Agents of Change programs include a study schedule calendar!
  • Prioritize Your Tasks: Identify what absolutely must be done versus what can wait. This might mean delegating tasks, cutting back on non-essential activities, or even taking a temporary step back from commitments that aren’t urgent.
  • Use Your Time Wisely: Look for pockets of time that you might not be using efficiently. Studying during your lunch break, listening to educational podcasts during your commute, or reviewing flashcards while waiting for an appointment can all add up.
  • Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to let friends, family, and colleagues know about your goals and the importance of your study time. You might be surprised at how supportive they can be, whether by offering to help with other obligations or simply understanding your need for quiet study time.

Build the perfect ASWB exam study plan with our automatic and personalized study plan builder.

Q: What Are the Best Resources for ASWB Exam Prep?

A: Finding the right study materials is crucial for efficient and effective ASWB exam preparation. Here are some top resources:

  • Official ASWB Study Guide and KSAs: Starting with the official study guide published by the ASWB is a must. It provides a detailed overview of the exam format, content areas, and includes practice questions.
  • Online Practice Tests: Agents of Change offers 3 full-length practice exams to help you measure your progress and track your timing.
  • Educational Apps: Look for apps that offer ASWB exam prep. They can provide convenient access to study materials, quizzes, and flashcards on your smartphone or tablet. Agents of Change offers apps for both iOS and Android (Apple and Google).
  • Study Groups and Forums: Connecting with others who are also preparing for the exam can provide moral support, study tips, and resources you might not have found on your own.

Q: How Do I Know When I’m Ready to Take the ASWB Exam?

A: Here are some signs that you might be ready:

  • Consistent Passing Scores on Practice Tests: If you’re consistently scoring well on practice tests, especially on different topics, it’s a good sign that you’ve mastered the material.
  • Confidence in the Material: Feeling confident about the exam content—not just memorizing facts but understanding concepts and how to apply them—is key.
  • Completion of Your Study Plan: If you’ve worked through your entire study plan and feel comfortable with the material covered, you’re likely ready. Make sure to review any sections a 2nd time that you struggled with!

4) Conclusion

The key takeaway here is that success in the ASWB exam doesn’t rely on cramming information but on a well-structured, personalized approach to learning that balances discipline with self-care.

Remember, the question of “When should you start studying for your ASWB exam?” is personal and depends on a variety of factors unique to your life situation and learning style. There’s no one correct answer, but by applying the strategies and insights shared here—from understanding the exam structure and creating a tailored study plan to utilizing a mix of study materials and staying motivated—you’ll be setting yourself up for success.

Learn more about the ASWB exam and create a personalized ASWB study plan with Agents of Change. We’ve helped thousands of Social Workers pass their ASWB exams and want to help you be next!

► Learn more about the Agents of Change course here: https://agentsofchangeprep.com

About the Instructor, Meagan Mitchell: Meagan is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and has been providing individualized and group test prep for the ASWB for over five years. From all of this experience helping others pass their exams, she created the Agents of Change course to help you prepare for and pass the ASWB exam!

Find more from Agents of Change here:

► Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/aswbtestprep

► Podcast: https://anchor.fm/agents-of-change-sw

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Disclaimer: This content has been made available for informational and educational purposes only. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or clinical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

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