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Extracted from FSB Preparation Guide for Level 1 RE. Click here to download the full version of this document.

Multiple choice exams cover a lot of detail and facts. The short term memory’s capacity is very limited; therefore it is essential to start preparing for the regulatory exams at least 3 month prior to your examination date. The learner will have to be repeatedly subjected to the material in order to store the information effectively in the long term memory.
Although attending workshops and training will certainly be helpful, this is no replacement for extensive studying of the required material. And yes, it is necessary and very possible to study successfully for multiple choice exams!
Studying Instructions
You will need:
- A positive attitude
- Lots of will power
- Enough rest
- Quiet place to study
- Qualifying criteria
- Recourse material
Steps to follow:
- Identify the regulatory examination(s) that apply to your situation
- Find the corresponding sets of qualifying criteria, for each of the relevant regulatory examinations that you must prepare for. See appendix B for the qualifying criteria for the regulatory level 1 exams
- Work through the qualifying criteria and make sure you understand them against the relevant acts and legislation
- Use of additional study material is advisable but optional
- Repeat step 3 as many times as necessary to store the factual knowledge in the long term memory
Study Material and Training
Numerous training materials have been developed by various training providers for the purpose of the regulatory level 1 exams.
It should be noted that the FSB does not endorse any of these training materials.
It is advisable to still refer back to the relevant legislation as contained in the acts and regulations in order to eliminate difference in terminology use, if you decide to use designed study material and/or training.
Please note: Examination bodies may not provide training and/or study material for the regulatory exams. Examination bodies will make FSB approved study guides with reference to suggested material available; however the sourcing of appropriate study material and/or training providers is the responsibility of the candidates.
Studying tips for multiple choice exams
It is necessary and very possible to study successfully for multiple choices exam. Follow the following guidelines in order to help you in your preparation for the regulatory exams.

Studying styles for multiple choice tests
There are numerous styles of learning and remembering facts. . Please remember that every person learns differently, and there is only the “right way” for you and a “wrong way” for you. Your method may be different from that of your friend.
One of the most effective ways to prepare for multiple choice tests is by study reading, but you are welcome to investigate other methods of studying. References to relevant websites are included below.
Study reading is the reading style used when the purpose is to read difficult material at a high level of comprehension. When using the Study Reading style, you should read at a rate that is slower than your normal reading rate. Further, as you read you must challenge yourself to understand the material. Study Reading will often require you to read material more than once to achieve a high level of understanding. Sometimes, reading the material aloud will also help you improve your understanding.
Improving Concentration
Many people have difficulty concentrating while studying. Being able to concentrate while you are studying is essential to doing well in exams.
Here are suggestions for improving your study concentration:
- Study in a quiet place that is free from distractions and interruptions. Try to create a space designated solely for studying.
- Make a study schedule that shows what tasks you need to accomplish and when you plan to accomplish each task. This will provide you with the structure you need for effective studying.
- Try to study at the time of day you work best. Some people work well early in the morning, others late at night. You know what works best for you.
- Try to study at the same time every day, as you will start to adapt to study mode automatically at that time of the day.
- Make sure you are not tired and/or hungry when you study. Otherwise, you won't have the energy you need to concentrate. Also, maintain your physical fitness.
- Don't try to do two tasks at the same time. You won't be able to concentrate on either one very well. Concentration means focusing on one thing to the exclusion of all else.
- Break large tasks into series of smaller tasks that you can complete one at a time. If you try to complete a large task all at once, you may feel overwhelmed and will be unable to maintain your concentration.
- Relax. It's hard to concentrate when you're tense. It's important to relax when working on a task that requires concentration. Meditation is helpful to many students.
- Clear your mind of worrisome thoughts. Mental poise is important for concentration. You can get distracted by your own thoughts. Monitor your thoughts and prevent yourself from following any that take you off track. Don't daydream.
- Develop an interest in what you are studying. Try to relate what you are studying to you own life to make it as meaningful as possible. This can motivate you to concentrate.
- Take breaks whenever you feel fatigued. There is no set formula for when to take breaks.
Registering with the correct examination body
There are four recognized examination bodies. Candidates must select the examination body through which they would like to enrol for the examinations.
The examination bodies do not offer all the same exams; refer to appendix A for a list of the exams and the examining bodies that offer them.
Once you have identified an examination body that offers the examination you need to write, you must check whether they offer the exam at a venue that suits you. If you are satisfied with the venue, check for a date and time that suits you. You must then enrol for the examination with the exam body.
Each exam body has their own registration procedures, which they explain on their websites. They allow for different methods of registration. It is important to check carefully before you register for an examination, to ensure that you selected the correct examination, and the venue, date and time that suits you.
Special Needs
Candidates with special needs must contact the examination body when they are registering in order to make arrangements for any assistance they might require. The examination bodies will do everything they can to assist with the requests of the candidates. Candidates may be required to produce a valid medical certificate in order to verify their special need or disability.
More Information
You can visit the following websites for more information on study styles and test taking skills:
Tips on Answering Multiple Choice Questions
http://www.test-preparation.ca/study-center/answering-multiple-choice-questions/
Study Guides & Strategies
Wikipedia: Study Skills
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