SAFMEDS (Say All Fast Minute Every Day Shuffled) helps RBT candidates build fluency with ABA terms and concepts through timed flashcard practice. This proven method improves recall speed and accuracy for exam success.
What Are SAFMEDS?
SAFMEDS stands for Say All Fast Minute Every Day Shuffled. This study method uses flashcards in a specific way to build fluency with important concepts.
You practice saying answers to flashcards as quickly as possible. The goal is speed and accuracy together.
Many RBT students struggle with remembering ABA terms under pressure. SAFMEDS training helps you recall information quickly during your exam.
How SAFMEDS Work for RBT Study
The SAFMEDS method follows a simple pattern. You shuffle your flashcards and set a timer for one minute.
During that minute, you go through as many cards as possible. You say each answer out loud before flipping the card.
If you get an answer wrong, you put that card in a separate pile. You only count correct answers toward your score.
After the minute ends, you record how many you got right. Then you practice the missed cards separately.
This process builds what experts call “fluency.” Fluency means you can recall information both quickly and correctly.
Benefits of SAFMEDS for RBT Candidates
SAFMEDS offers several advantages over regular flashcard study. First, it builds automatic recall of key terms and concepts.
When you see “positive reinforcement” on your exam, you’ll instantly know the definition. You won’t waste time trying to remember.
The timed practice also reduces test anxiety. You get used to answering questions quickly under pressure.
Many RBT candidates report feeling more confident after using SAFMEDS. They know they can recall information when it matters most.
The method also shows you which concepts need more work. Cards you miss repeatedly need extra attention.
Setting Up Your SAFMEDS Practice
Start by creating flashcards for essential RBT concepts. Focus on terms that appear frequently on practice tests.
Include definitions of reinforcement, punishment, extinction, and other key principles. Add information about data collection methods too.
Make sure your cards have clear, concise answers. Long paragraphs don’t work well for SAFMEDS practice.
Use index cards or digital flashcard apps. Both work fine as long as you can shuffle them easily.
Set up a quiet practice space where you can speak out loud. You need to actually say the answers, not just think them.
Essential RBT Terms for SAFMEDS
Your SAFMEDS deck should cover the main content areas from the RBT Task List. Start with these fundamental concepts:
Reinforcement and Punishment: Include positive reinforcement, negative reinforcement, positive punishment, and negative punishment. Know the differences clearly.
Schedules of Reinforcement: Practice continuous reinforcement, fixed ratio, variable ratio, fixed interval, and variable interval schedules.
Measurement and Data Collection: Cover frequency, duration, latency, and partial interval recording methods.
Behavior Functions: Include attention, escape, access to tangibles, and automatic reinforcement.
Antecedent Strategies: Add prompting, environmental modifications, and establishing operations.
Crisis Prevention: Include de-escalation techniques and safety protocols.
Daily Practice Schedule
Consistency matters more than long practice sessions. Aim for 10-15 minutes of SAFMEDS practice each day.
Start each session with a one-minute timing using your full deck. Record your score on a chart.
Then spend 5-10 minutes practicing cards you missed. Go through these slowly to build accuracy first.
End with another one-minute timing if you have time. This shows immediate improvement and builds confidence.
Practice at the same time each day if possible. Morning sessions often work well before your brain gets tired.
Track your progress over time. You should see your scores improve as you build fluency.
Tracking Your Progress
Keep a simple chart showing your daily scores. Write down the date, number correct, and number of errors.
Look for upward trends in your correct responses. Also watch for decreasing error rates.
If your scores plateau, you might need to add new cards or increase practice time slightly.
Some days you’ll score lower than others. This is normal and doesn’t mean you’re losing progress.
Focus on your overall trend rather than daily fluctuations. Consistent practice leads to steady improvement.
Common SAFMEDS Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t rush through cards without really knowing the answers. Accuracy comes before speed in building fluency.
Avoid practicing the same cards in the same order every time. Shuffling is essential for true learning.
Don’t skip the verbal component. Saying answers out loud strengthens your recall more than silent practice.
Resist the urge to peek at answers before trying to recall them. This defeats the purpose of fluency building.
Don’t give up if progress seems slow at first. Fluency building takes time but creates lasting results.
Combining SAFMEDS with Other Study Methods
SAFMEDS works best as part of a complete study plan. Use it alongside practice tests and textbook reading.
Start study sessions with SAFMEDS to activate your knowledge. Then move to practice questions or reading.
Use SAFMEDS to review difficult concepts from your other study materials. Turn confusing topics into flashcards.
The quick recall from SAFMEDS helps during longer practice exams. You’ll spend less time on basic definitions.
Preparing for Exam Day
Continue SAFMEDS practice right up to your exam date. Even a quick session the morning of your test can help.
The fluency you build transfers directly to exam performance. You’ll recognize concepts quickly and answer confidently.
Remember that SAFMEDS builds automatic responses. Trust your preparation and don’t second-guess yourself during the exam.
Your consistent practice has prepared you to succeed. The quick recall you’ve developed will serve you well.
SAFMEDS practice gives RBT candidates a powerful tool for exam success. The method builds both speed and accuracy with essential concepts. Start your SAFMEDS practice today and watch your confidence grow as your exam date approaches.