One of the most common challenges that social work exam takers face is how to manage their time and pace themselves on the ASWB exam. The exam consists of 170 multiple-choice questions that you have to answer in four hours. That means you have an average of 1.4 minutes per question. However, some questions may take longer than others, depending on their difficulty level and your familiarity with the topic.

So how can you make sure that you don't run out of time or rush through the exam? Here are some tips and tricks that can help you:

  • Before the exam, familiarize yourself with the format and content of the exam (that is, practice with full-length practice tests like those on SWTP!). Review the ASWB exam outline get a sense of the range of included content. This will help you get a sense of what kinds of questions to expect and how much time they may require.
  • During the exam, keep track of your time and progress. There will be a timer built into your exam.  Not sure how fast you're going? You can check periodically if you are on track or behind schedule.
  • If you encounter a question that is too difficult or unfamiliar, don't spend too much time on it. Mark it for review and move on to the next question. You can always come back to it later if you have time left. Don't let one question slow your overall momentum.
  • If you encounter a question that is easy or familiar, don't rush through it. Read it carefully and make sure you understand what it is asking. Eliminate any obviously wrong answers and choose the best answer among the remaining options. Don't overthink or change your answer unless you are absolutely sure. 
  • If you finish the exam before the allotted time, don't rush away. Use the remaining time to review your marked questions and check your answers for any missed details. You may find some questions that you missed or misunderstood earlier.
  • If you run out of time before finishing the exam, don't panic. Guess intelligently on any unanswered questions and submit your test before the time expires. Remember that there is no penalty for wrong answers, so leaving a question blank is worse than guessing. 

Managing your time and pacing yourself on the ASWB exam is not easy, but it is possible with some preparation and practice. By following these tips and tricks, you can increase your chances of completing the exam successfully and passing it with flying colors.

Happy studying and good luck on the exam!


March 13, 2023
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  aswb