Pass the RBT® Exam with These Skill Acquisition and ABA Practice Scenarios

Passing the Registered Behavior Technician® (RBT®) exam requires more than just memorizing definitions — it’s about understanding how to apply behavior-analytic principles in real-world situations. One of the MOST important areas you’ll be tested on is skill acquisition. This refers to the process of teaching new behaviors or skills using evidence-based methods, like reinforcement and prompting.

Practicing skill acquisition scenarios helps you build the confidence and critical thinking needed to respond effectively during both the exam and your time in the field.

What Are Skill Acquisition Plans (SAPs)?

A skill acquisition plan (SAP) is a detailed program used to teach a new skill. It includes information like:

  • The target behavior or skill
  • Teaching strategies (e.g., discrete trial training, task analysis)
  • Prompting methods
  • Reinforcement procedures
  • Mastery criteria
  • Generalization and maintenance strategies

As an RBT®, your role is to implement these plans under the supervision of a BCBA or BCaBA. That means you’ll need to know how to recognize appropriate teaching procedures and follow them step by step.

RBT® Skill Acquisition Scenario Practice

Let’s walk through three RBT® scenarios to help you practice applying what you know:

RBT® Scenario 1: Teaching Hand Washing Using Task Analysis

You’re working with a six-year-old learner who is being taught to wash their hands independently. The BCBA has created a task analysis that includes 10 steps. You are instructed to use backward chaining and provide full physical prompts as needed.

What should you do?

  • Begin teaching the LAST step first (e.g., drying hands).
  • Fully prompt the earlier steps until the learner reaches the final one.
  • Gradually fade prompts as the learner becomes more independent.

RBT® Scenario 2: Teaching a Mand (Request) Using Incidental Teaching

Your learner is nonverbal and uses picture exchange to request preferred items. While playing with a puzzle, they look at you and reach for the missing piece.

What should you do?

  • Pause the interaction to create a teaching opportunity.
  • Hold up the puzzle piece and wait for the learner to exchange the picture card.
  • Deliver the piece immediately as reinforcement.

RBT® Scenario 3: Teaching Colors with Discrete Trial Training (DTT)

You’re using DTT to teach the colors red and blue. The session includes 10 trials with 1:1 instruction.

What should you do?

  • Present the SD (e.g., “Touch red”).
  • Wait for the learner’s response.
  • Deliver immediate reinforcement for correct responses.
  • Record data on each trial.

4 Tips for Practicing Skill Acquisition Scenarios

  1. Visualize yourself in the scenario and think through each step.
  2. Label the components of the SAP in your practice (prompt type, reinforcement schedule, etc.).
  3. Use flashcards or mock exams with scenario-based questions.
  4. Review ABA principles, such as shaping, chaining, and fading, regularly.

Practicing these RBT® skill acquisition scenarios will prepare you to recognize and respond appropriately on test day. With enough repetition and feedback, you’ll build a solid foundation for providing quality care to your future clients.

Test Your Knowledge Application With Pocket Prep

Pocket Prep’s RBT® Exam Prep offers scenario-based practice focused on real-life applications of ABA principles. Build your skills with interactive question formats to boost your confidence and test-day performance. Start preparing for the RBT® exam with tools that support your success.