Okay so the question of the day is "Have I learned?"
Based on my practice tests, I think so. (I'm guessing this is the most ecologically valid way to assess this, though there is some noise in there.) I just scored my second practice test (did I mention it is way more work by hand?) and it was a slight overall improvement (from 62 to 65.5%). More striking for me was the gains in specific areas that seemed to be related to the areas that I have focused on this week (Ethics, L&B, and Development). I made good gains in L&B and Development, while staying steady with Ethics (took my baseline after studying that initially anyway). I fluctuated in other areas, but I'm going to expect that until I make a concerted effort (review materials, flashcard-making, focused practice items) to cover an area. At least this is the attribution I'm making at 10:30pm on a Saturday night.
My take-home this week is that what I'm doing seems to be working at this stage. Course, I wouldn't be a good psychologist/scientist if I didn't keep assessing and accommodating based on my findings....so I'll keep geeking out on that.
Re: hand-scoring...
I forgot to print off some of my fancy answer sheets, so it would have been way easier. I'm also going to make a more detailed subject-scoring part.
If you're getting 65 on the practice tests, you probably would already pass the real thing. They are considerably harder than the real test. Honestly, if you study at the rate you're studying now, you should well ready to take the test in a month. Remember, you only need to get a C- on the test to pass it. It's hard for all of us to switch off the "I need an A+ on this test mindset," but if you study this hard for 3 months you'll probably get like 90% or more, and it's important to think about whether over-studying is really a good use of your time. Obviously, we all over-study to reduce anxiety, just remember to do it in moderation! My advice: don't be wedded to a timeline; just keep it up and take the test when you're ready. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteSage advice from someone who has already passed. :) Thanks, and you're right, no way I can or will keep this up for 3 months!
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