RBT Mnemonics & Memory Tricks
Easy ways to remember key concepts
Mnemonics are memory aids that help you remember information using patterns, acronyms, or associations. Use these tricks to remember the most-tested RBT exam concepts.
Functions of Behavior
SEATMeaning: Sensory/Automatic, Escape, Attention, Tangible
Every behavior serves one of these four functions. When analyzing problem behavior, ask: Is it for Sensory stimulation? To Escape something? To get Attention? Or to get a Tangible item?
Example: A child screams when asked to do homework → Escape function (avoiding the task)
Continuous Measurement Types
FDLI (Friendly Dogs Love Ice cream)Meaning: Frequency, Duration, Latency, IRT
These are the four types of continuous measurement where you record every instance of behavior.
Example: Frequency = count, Duration = how long, Latency = time to start, IRT = time between
Interval Recording Types
P-W-M (Please Watch Me)Meaning: Partial, Whole, Momentary
Partial = mark if behavior occurs at ANY point. Whole = mark only if behavior occurs ENTIRE time. Momentary = mark only at the EXACT moment.
Example: Partial overestimates, Whole underestimates, Momentary is a snapshot
Differential Reinforcement Types
A-O-I-L (All Owls In Love)Meaning: DRA (Alternative), DRO (Other), DRI (Incompatible), DRL (Low rate)
DRA = reinforce a better alternative. DRO = reinforce when problem behavior doesn't occur. DRI = reinforce a behavior that can't happen at the same time. DRL = reinforce lower rates.
Example: DRA for teaching communication instead of tantrums
Reinforcement Schedules
FR-VR-FI-VI (Fixed/Variable, Ratio/Interval)Meaning: Fixed Ratio, Variable Ratio, Fixed Interval, Variable Interval
Fixed = predictable. Variable = unpredictable. Ratio = based on responses. Interval = based on time.
Example: Slot machine = VR (variable ratio) → high, steady responding
Prompt Hierarchy (Most-to-Least)
F-P-M-G-V (Full Physical Model Gestural Verbal)Meaning: Full Physical → Partial Physical → Model → Gestural → Verbal
Start with most intrusive prompt and fade to least intrusive as the learner becomes independent.
Example: Hand-over-hand → light touch → demonstrate → point → tell
Chaining Methods
F-B-T (Forward Backward Total)Meaning: Forward Chaining, Backward Chaining, Total Task
Forward = teach step 1, then 1-2, etc. Backward = teach last step first. Total = teach all steps each time.
Example: Hand washing: Backward chaining teaches drying hands first
Preference Assessment Types
S-P-M (Single Paired Multiple)Meaning: Single Stimulus, Paired Stimulus, Multiple Stimulus
Single = one item at a time. Paired = two items, choose one. Multiple = several items, rank preferences.
Example: Paired stimulus (forced choice) is most common
How to Use Mnemonics Effectively
- Write them down: The act of writing helps encode the memory
- Say them aloud: Verbalizing strengthens memory pathways
- Create your own: Personal associations are easier to remember
- Use visualization: Picture the acronym as a vivid image
- Practice recall: Test yourself on what each letter stands for