5 Ways to Ace the PTCE Test
The Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam is a computer-based test. It contains 90 questions, and there is a two-hour time limit for taking the test.
The exam is designed to test your knowledge of how pharmaceutical drugs are used, what their effects are, and how they interact with each other. Not all states require that technicians get certified, but nonetheless, having your certification can enhance your chances of getting a job and a better salary. You can take the exam at any one of more than 200 testing centers around the country. The cost for the exam is $129. Here are a few tips on how to prepare for the exam.
1. Learn what is on the exam.
Before you take the exam, you should read through the candidate bulletin published by the Certification Board, which will provide detailed information about what is in the exam and how it is set up. The 90 questions on the exam cover three primary areas – helping the pharmacist with patients, maintaining a medication inventory control system, and performing other administrative and management duties.
2. Take the practice exams
Taking the practice exams will give you an indication of what you know well and areas that you need to work on. The Certification Board offers the exams to help applicants prepare. As you study, take a practice exam occasionally to see how you are progressing.
3. Study Efficiently
To do this, set up a study schedule. Set aside a few hours each day when you can devote yourself to preparing for the test. Find a quiet place to study, a place where there are no distractions, such as televisions or computers. The best place to study is at a desk. Use study aids like diagrams and flashcards to help learn the concepts. Set aside time to study with others as well. That way, you can discuss the information on the test with each other.
4. Before you take the test
Make sure you get a good night’s sleep the night before the test. Also, the day of the test, make sure you eat a good breakfast, so you aren’t distracted by hunger pangs during the exam.
5. When taking the test.
Read the instructions carefully, so you understand what is going on. Read each question and the answers carefully before choosing your response. You are not penalized for guessing, so if you don’t know the answer to a question, eliminate the choices you know to be wrong and take your best educated guess.
If you’re a pharmacist looking for new opportunities, send your resume to the recruiters at Rx relief®. We can help you find a great new temporary or direct-hire position at some of the nation’s top pharmacies or hospitals. We look forward to hearing from you.
