Habit 1: Highlight Like a Master
Free
Framer Mentor
IN THIS SECTION we will learn how to crack open a question and dissect all the gooey bits that make it work. Marking up your text cuts it down to size, and it is the beginning to answering any question. It will reveal some of the handy details your exam doesn’t want you to see!
IN THIS SECTION
we will learn how to crack open a question and dissect all the gooey bits that make it work. Marking up your text cuts it down to size, and it is the beginning to answering any question. It will reveal some of the handy details your exam doesn’t want you to see!
Start by reading your question (duh). Then, highlight/circle anywhere you see these pieces of information:
WHAT KIND OF QUESTION IS THIS?
Recognize what type of question it is. Is it a FIRST/NEXT/BEST? If yes, proceed to step 2 below. If no, take a jump to Habit #3.
WHAT IS MY ROLE HERE?
Consider your relationship to the question’s scenario. Are you an agency social worker? Or are you working in admin? Are you engaging with community organizations? Private practice? For illustration, see ex. 1.2.
WHICH PERSON/COMMUNITY IS IN THE HOT-SEAT?
If the question mentions two or more clients, it is essential to first determine who your answer will be addressing. For illustration, see ex. 1.3.
WHAT ARE THE SIGNS, SYMPTOMS, & CONCERNS?
As practitioners, we are inclined to picture certain symptoms based on the diagnosis a question seems to describe. Your training, however, is where the test may trap you. Make sure to account for info and symptoms ONLY mentioned explicitly in the question. Also to distinguish between client’s self reported symptoms vs symptoms that show up during official assessments. For illustration, see ex. 1.4
Remember . . .
each question contains a lot of information that you need, and information that you DON’T. Highlighting important information is your key to filtering out the bullshit.
Let’s see this in action.
**Example 1.1**
A SWKR meets a client who has come to discuss troubling feelings. In session the client initiates very little conversation and there are long periods of silence. The SWKR should *FIRST* –
- A) Address the client's resistance to involvement in treatment
- B) Initiate treatment for depression
- C) Suggest that the client see another social worker