My EPPP Blog

Oops

2012-02-13T08:35:00.000-08:00

Ok, if you are following along you will see I got a bit sidetracked, err well, maybe a little more than sidetracked!

Well, I am here to get back on track. See you all tomorrow.

Timing is everything

2012-01-06T17:28:00.000-08:00

January 6, 2012

Today's Goals:

"~Depends on timing of my day"

Read first 1/2 Ethics Volume 1
Come up with test questions for study group
Attend Study Session at 10:30
Take a full TestMaster Test

So, how'd I do? Well...

I came up with test questions for study group.

Attended Study Group

Took 1/2 of a TestMaster Test

I guess I don't earn a sticker although, I did preface "depends on timing of my day."

I learned a lot today. The TestMaster takes time, and I am not going to rush through the questions. I think I put too much on my plate for my goals today but do feel that I did a good job of studying today. I met a new person in study group, who came back to give feedback because she just passed the test! We talked about not cramming the day before and the importance of relaxation. I learned that the test results are released on the 15th and at the end of each month so, timing when you take the test is everything. You do not want to have to wait too long to find out if you passed. I will keep these in mind when scheduling the exam in the future.

We also talked about setting a test date. I will have the date set soon. Finally, we talked about the length of the exam and that your time continues when you take a break. The woman we spoke with today mentioned it because the testing site she went to had a sign in procedure and although she only meant to take a short break, she ended up waiting in line to return to her exam, thus losing valuable exam time.

The moral of today is timing is everything. Timing how long my tests take before setting too lofty goals for my day. Timing when I take the test is important in terms of how long I need to wait to get results. Timing my test date so that I have an end point to strive for is an important part of the process. Finally, timing my breaks and time on the test is crucial to completing the exam!

My Goals for the Weekend:

To finish the TestMaster Test
To read 1/2 of the ethics chapter and take notes/outline or make flashcards (to be determined).
To set my test date

Moving along, folks, hoping you are enjoying the ride...

Overview and Orientation

2012-01-05T13:46:00.000-08:00

Today's Goal's:

To take part in my first Skype study session.
Read Volume 1 Overview and Orientation
Read Strategies book
Set up Schedule

Completed all goals for today! Really enjoyed the study session and recommend it to anyone studying for the EPPP. Still thinking about my study space, not in love with the current plan.

Tomorrow's Goals:

~Depends on timing of my day.

Read first 1/2 Ethics Volume 1
Come up with test questions for study group
Attend Study Session at 10:30
Take a full TestMaster Test

Will also attempt to look into study logs or schedule logs to keep track, so look for one coming up.

So far so good- here's my sticker for today!

Day 1

2012-01-04T12:27:00.000-08:00

I have started my studying. Funny thing, I expected to jump into studying ethics but actually AATBS starts you right off with Getting Motivated for Success: Vital Health and Nutrition which was a great help in explaining the importance of staying motivated, eating right and exercising to invigorate the mind and studying. The next section I reviewed today, still not ethics, was a guided imagery relaxation exercise to gain control over my test anxiety. This again was a great way to start off and it is not procrastinating, I am simply following the AATBS format.

I also bought my webcam today and installed it and checked it out on Skype so that I am ready for my first Skype study group tomorrow! Next up, planning my study sessions and study plan following the AATBS schedule and recommendations. Check back tomorrow to hear all about the first study group!

~Jill

Resources

2011-12-30T14:49:00.000-08:00

Ok. I am legitimately waiting for my desk (and 2012) to begin my studying. I am shooting for 1/4/2012 as the official kickoff. Meanwhile, I am finding resources and gathering supplies. I bought the desk, coming Tuesday, and most of the rest of the items I need.

Resources:
I have already found a few invaluable resources. I will continue to let you know how they pan out. First I came across the Yahoo EPPP-prep message board. Great if you are just getting started. Actually, a fantastic place to find used materials and listen to others' stories and get a lot of helpful information regarding the various study systems out there - and they do actually sound to be all good. It seems more about finding the right type for your style, time and budget. I think it will continue to be a great resource throughout the process. Next, and I am very excited about this, I found a Yahoo study group. Actually, it is a Skype study group. Exactly what I was hoping for: some comradery and also a group to keep me going and focused.

Bought My Study Materials

2011-12-29T12:59:00.000-08:00

It's Here!

Bought the AATBS system on ebay, and it has arrived. New Years is Monday and Tuesday my desk arrives. Look for studying to commence on Wednesday!

One Step At A Time

2011-12-23T13:47:00.000-08:00

Decided on my table (yeah, not a desk) and study area. Not actually put together yet, but it's in my head. Christmas is two days away and I am busy planning, wrapping and cooking. But, my Christmas list this year does comprise of a calendar, pens, notebooks, and journals all in test study planning!

Back to Basics

2011-12-21T07:43:00.000-08:00

Okay. Don't laugh. I really do not have a desk. I have a "laptop desk" and thought of using the dining room table but with a full house I need my own spot...oh and yes, an actual desk. So, as an expert procrastinator, today I am blogging and finding other helpful blogs (check out this one I have been reading through-very helpful and she passed!! My Quest to Conquer the EPPP and get a Jobby Job) and will be shopping (for a desk though). I also plan on making some sort of study chart to keep myself accountable. Getting organized and settled is phase 1 for me at this point.

Starting Out, Diving In and Taking Off!

2011-12-20T06:52:00.000-08:00

Ok. I am Diving in! I have finally decided to take the exam! I have spent a lot of time researching the various methods out there in terms of study materials. I will not try to give a full list of what is available but I think the 4 following companies offer the main study systems used by EPPP test takers (and, to be honest, all are extremely expensive);

The Taylor Study Method, which offers a customized online program, pay by the month or longer.
Academic Review, which offers books, cds and workshops
AATBS, also offering books, cds and workshops
PsychPrep again offering books, cds and workshops

I would say the above programs are all reputable and will assist us in passing. Which one to choose is going to be based on your personal learning style and schedules. Look for used, but recent, materials and specials. I have chosen the AATBS package (I found on ebay) and feel happy and secure in my decision. Good luck researching and choosing the system for you!