I'm not proud of this, but I bombed the ABPN written exam twice before I finally passed last November. First attempt I used only my residency notes and a random review book — big mistake. Second time I added a question bank but didn't really analyze my wrong answers, just kept grinding through questions hoping something would stick. Passed on attempt three with a 480, and I want to share what actually moved the needle.
The biggest change was switching to a structured ABPN study guide that broke content down by the actual blueprint categories — neuroscience, psychopathology, somatic treatments. I also started doing timed blocks from an ABPN practice test and spending 20 minutes after each block dissecting every wrong answer. That metacognitive step was something I'd skipped before and it was honestly the difference-maker.
Anyone else on a second or third attempt, or currently prepping for the first time? Happy to share my full 12-week schedule if it helps.