Practice Makes Praxis

By Marissa Gallan

Just hearing the word “Praxis” can make even the most confident audiology student let out a nervous laugh. The Praxis is one of the final checkboxes on the list of requirements to become a licensed clinician. It marks the end of academic coursework and serves as a final test of all the knowledge acquired over the past several years. Sometimes, the anxiety and pressure surrounding Praxis can throw off even the most coolheaded student.

Is the exam nerve-wracking? Yes. Are you prepared for it? Also, yes.

Reflecting on my experience as someone who has taken the Praxis and is halfway through externship year, I have stressed over this exam, and I have succeeded in passing it. I have also watched countless other peers do the same. Simply put, by the time you sign up for your Praxis, you’ve already learned and acquired materials for everything you need to know. The challenge isn’t gaining new knowledge; it’s organizing and combining what you already have to apply it on the test day.

It’s important not to fall into the trap of thinking you need to read notes for countless hours each day or fill every spare minute with flashcards. Start small and early by setting aside consistent blocks of time to determine your best preparation methods and study. The Educational Testing Service (ETS) offers excellent resources on how to organize your study materials and prepare based on the exam’s breakdown. I found the ETS study companion and practice test to be valuable tools, which you receive upon signing up for the exam. I also reached out to others who previously passed the exam for tips and to share their experiences. Additionally, I found existing Quizlets made by other students and the Audiology Review: Preparing for the Praxis and Comprehensive Examination book to be very beneficial to my preparation. 

There are also other ways to prepare besides conventional studying and the use of written materials. Connecting with your local SAA chapters for group study sessions can be a helpful, low-pressure way to test your knowledge and learn from your peers. Bringing concepts to clinic for conversations with preceptors can also provide new information and alternative approaches that can enhance your knowledge. Developing a thorough understanding of the information, particularly through its application in a clinical scenario, is crucial to passing this exam. The national SAA Education Committee is also here to support all students on their Praxis journey. Be on the lookout for upcoming Virtual Education Series (VES) workshops to help enhance your knowledge and prepare for the Praxis!

To address the elephant in the room: what happens if you don’t pass on the first try? First, you’re not alone, and one exam score does not define your future as a clinician. There are several forms of the test with different compositions and questions. If you need to retake the exam, you’ll do so with more knowledge about the test format and areas for personal growth. All you need is to pass once. And when (not if) you pass, take that sigh of relief and a moment to celebrate. You’ve earned it!