From “I Think I’m Fine” to Full Survival Mode: My NBCOT Exam Prep Story (and Why I Built a Physical Binder)

If you’ve ever thought, “I’ll start studying early so I won’t be stressed,” and then somehow ended up cramming anyway, this post is for you.

I took my NBCOT exam on 11/20 (2025), and I waited about three weeks for my results. Those weeks felt longer than the entire prep period combined. To make it extra spicy, 11/20 was the only test date available for me, and I had already booked a non-refundable trip to Japan starting 12/10, which also happened to be score release day. Passing wasn’t optional; it was the only scenario my nervous system would accept.

The plan vs. the reality

On paper, I made a 28-day study plan. In reality? I barely followed it at first. My early practice exam scores were decent, so I reviewed materials casually, once or twice a week, and told myself I was “on track.” Looking back, that false confidence was the most dangerous part of my prep.

As the exam got closer, it became very clear: the volume and depth of material were much more than I had anticipated. Recognition wasn’t enough; I needed integration and clinical reasoning.

Eight days. Ten to thirteen hours a day.

About eight days before the exam, I flipped the switch. I studied 10–13 hours a day, every day. I don’t recommend this timeline (of course), but I do think my strategy saved me.

Instead of trying to memorize everything, I focused on what actually drives exam decisions (detailed explanation is in my prep binder!):

• Domain 3 (clinical reasoning)

• Safety & precautions

• Inpatient ADL sequencing

• Stroke (CVA) & SCI

I grouped topics by diagnosis → functional impact → OT priorities → common pitfalls, and I practiced questions daily, carefully reviewing why answers were right or wrong. This really helped me use the limited time I had very efficiently.

Exam day honesty

I used the entire four hours (plus one bathroom break). Walking out, I did not feel confident. There were questions I knew I studied, but under pressure, I second-guessed myself or couldn’t retrieve details cleanly. I mentally prepared for a retake after my Japan/Korea trip.

Then, right before boarding my flight, I found out I passed.

Why I built a physical exam binder

I’m a visual and tactile learner, and during those eight intense days, a physical binder kept me grounded. Tabs, checklists, quick-reference pages, and a clear schedule helped reduce decision fatigue. It made studying feel less chaotic and more doable, even when the pressure was high.

That experience is why I’m creating a physical NBCOT exam prep binder for others who:

• Feel overwhelmed by where to start

• Struggle to organize scattered resources

• Want a realistic study structure (not perfection)

• Benefit from seeing the “big picture” while drilling high-yield content

The binder includes organization tools, schedules, high-yield frameworks, test-thinking tips, and yes, some aesthetic motivation, because sustainability matters when you’re exhausted.

A word of encouragement

If you’re studying right now, especially if your prep doesn’t look “perfect," you are not behind. This exam tests performance on one day under pressure, not your worth or your future as a clinician. Strategy, structure, and self-trust go a long way.

If you have questions about exam prep, high-yield areas, or what you wish you had while studying, feel free to reach out. Your questions help shape this binder into something that’s actually useful.

You’re doing more than you think, and you’ve got this. 🤍

And, lastly...

I would be remiss not to say this: I’m deeply thankful to God through all of this. Not just for the passing result, but for the endurance, clarity, and peace that showed up when I was running on very little sleep and a lot of pressure. There were moments I felt completely overwhelmed, and I truly believe I was carried through the process one step at a time. This journey reminded me that I didn’t do this alone, and that even when my confidence wavered, grace didn’t.

Doing this as a mom to a 10-year-old wasn’t easy, but it showed me what’s possible, and I hope it reminds you of your own strength.

SOLI DEO GLORIA.