The scenario--the day of the test lunch,bathroom breaks, etc

[Rosetta D]

I understand the test is 5h 40 min----so we have to lug all our books and pack a lunch? How did that all work out for you? Also is it like a class room setting usually? I often eat lunch at my desk at work so I am use to that---but just curious on what you packed and how it worked out for you

 

[Ruth Sheets]

My test started early in the morning, 7:30 am, I think. I ate a good breakfast (as usual). I brought with me some energy bars and bottled water. Soda and caffeinated drinks are not for me, but you should bring a beverage that you like. I chose energy bars because in a few bites you can get up to 200 calories (or so) of a good mix of protein, carbs, and fat and I find the ones I often eat very satisfying. Choose something that you like the taste and make you feel good afterward. I did pack a lunch that I ate before I drove home after the test, but I did not bring this into the test area. I don't function well when I'm hungry so I came prepared!

I did not want to waste any time. I used the restroom in the middle of the test because I knew I would be more comfortable if I planned on that, but I wasted no time! I had time to check that I had answered everything and the answers were well blackened in. That's how it went, and I am glad a passed the first time, because it is such a long test!

Good that you are thinking ahead. Planning is important!

 

[Ruth Sheets]

Also, it was a classroom setting but at large tables so I had plenty of room for my 3 books to all be open at once, and my snacks to be on the table, too. It was at my local chapter meeting place, so I had attended a meeting before the test to check out the facilities, parking, and travel time. Part of planning ahead, as much as possible!

 

[Carolyn Heath]

My exam was at 8 am and the location was where I took my PMCC class so I was comfortable where everything was located. I took a soft drink, a bottle of water, fruit, and a couple of WeightWatchers bars as snacks. I also scheduled a bathroom break in the middle of the exam and completed the exam on time.

 

[Alicia Scott]

A lot of time you are at a place with tables. Just a note on lunch. Unless you have a medical reason to eat a lunch I don't think I would allow time for that or pack much. You will get hungry and start asking yourself, "What in the world am I doing this to myself for?" and that will be the time you need to pull out some protein and carbs but a full lunch.....trust me, the time will fly.

 

[Rosetta D]

I pack snack and lunch everyday for work and never take a formal lunch--so I am use to that part--I am a strange bird---on that day I know I will be nervous and not really want to eat anything in the morning ----but then one minute I can be not hungry then another minute so hungry shaking from a sugar low--so I just have to plan to pack something quick and easy to grab. My test starts at 8am--so want to make sure I am there no later then 7:30am---I will probably leave my house by 6:15am----oh boy.. gonna be a long day!!!

 

[Carmen]

I rested the night before and had my books and materials ready in my bag. In the morning I prepared a sandwich, snack and water. And I didn't get hungry at all, and didn't have to take a brake. Your concentration will be in the exam and the clock nothing else. I keep an eye on the clock and told myself not to get nervous. I answered the easy questions first then the medium and the hard/long ones last. But most importantly, I edited the scenarios I pulled out only the pertinent information so I didn't have to read the same question again. This is by far the best technique of all, because reading and re-reading can eat out a lot of time. I passed the exam the first time and it is a great feeling. Good Luck Rosetta, once you become a certify coder you will want to share your knowledge with the whole world, you'll see.

 

[Sharon Clarke]

I packed a few granola bars that I unwrapped before the test began, during the check in period. Also, took a bottle of water, but drank sparingly. I used the washroom facilities 1/2 way through as I can't concentrate if I am uncomfortable.
I had plenty of time to do the test, check my answers.
I was not familiar with the location. And since it was in NYC and parking is a bear. So, my husband drove me and dropped me off at the door. (Really early!)
Our room was a typical classroom with desks. A little cramped for all the books but doable. Just be prepared that you might not be able to spread out.

Good luck - I believe you will do great!

 

[Kari Heath CPC]

I took a banana, a bottle of water and some dried fruit. I ate one bite of banana, one sip of water and didn't touch the dried fruit. I got up once to stretch, and that was it. I was focused...if you bring something that might be noisy to open then open it before you begin. It is very quiet inside the test area.
Good luck

 

[Rosetta D]

I notice that when I am studying --looking up Coding Number's I often whisper them aloud while I am at home--I have to practice not to do that ::

 

[Rosetta D]

I packed a few granola bars that I unwrapped before the test began, during the check in period. Also, took a bottle of water, but drank sparingly. I used the washroom facilities 1/2 way through as I can't concentrate if I am uncomfortable.
I had plenty of time to do the test, check my answers.
I was not familiar with the location. And since it was in NYC and parking is a bear. So, my husband drove me and dropped me off at the door. (Really early!)
Our room was a typical classroom with desks. A little cramped for all the books but doable. Just be prepared that you might not be able to spread out.

Good luck - I believe you will do great!

Where in NYC did you take the test?--I live in Brooklyn, NY and I felt finding a testing area near me was not the easiest---looking at the AAPC--Manhatten was booked and not really conviently located---there was Elmhurst Queens --or the Bronx that could have been a hike to get to---I opted for NJ--which might be 45 min drive but at least I know there is parking

 

[Luna]

I notice that when I am studying --looking up Coding Number's I often whisper them aloud while I am at home--I have to practice not to do that ::

Oh My Goodness. I do the same thing. I'll have to start catching myself, and break that habit. It's how I get it to stick in my short-term memory, or I forget what I was looking up.