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Most likely you have already completed or are nearing completion of an athletic training education program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE), and you are looking toward taking the Board of Certification (BOC) examination. Your goal is probably very similar to that of athletic training students across the country: to use the knowledge, skills, and abilities you have obtained to pass the BOC examination and add the certified athletic trainer (ATC) credential to your résumé.
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The purpose of the certification exam is to establish standards for entry into the profession and to ensure that all persons who earn the ATC credential demonstrate similar knowledge and skills required to practice. The ATC credential is also needed to obtain licensure or certification to practice as an athletic trainer in most states. Thus, this credential opens the door to your career in athletic training.
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Anticipating the certification examination can be very daunting. However, the more prepared you are going into the exam, the less stressful the process will be. This study guide is designed to walk you through the exam preparation process and build on the knowledge and skills you have already obtained during your educational preparation. It should be used as a supplement to the core reference texts you have used throughout your education.
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BENEFITS OF THIS STUDY GUIDE
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This study guide will help you identify your strengths and weaknesses in the various exam content areas. You will identify the concepts that you need to review as well as those you have already mastered. This guide also allows you to familiarize yourself with testing procedures and the different types of questions you will see on the test. Knowing what to expect can help reduce anxiety and allows you to focus on completing the exam successfully. Benfi
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Expect the questions in this study guide to be challenging. They were written to be as thorough as possible and to cover as many areas of athletic training knowledge as possible. You may be faced with questions for which you do not know the answer immediately. Use these difficult questions to identify areas you need to focus on during study sessions. Similarly, use them to apply the suggestions for approaching the different question types and to practice your critical thinking skills. Helpful hints for analyzing each question type are included. Sample questions then assist you in applying the test-taking strategies you learn.
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Treat practice tests as if they are actual tests. Create an environment that is free from distractions. Set aside a block of time during which all you are concentrating on is the test. Turn off your cell phone. Turn off the music. Remove any books or notes that might tempt you to look up an answer. The more closely your practice test environment ...