So you want to pass your RD exam…

Now that you have reached the end of this process, I hate to say it...but studying for the RD exam is very similar to everything you've done thus far.  There is a rough guideline as to what to study, but everyones test is a little different!

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If you have taken the DTR exam, this will feel EXACTLY the same.  (the one year test authorization, all the rules with the testing center, the check-in process, and the immediate results)  If you have not taken the DTR, check out number 4 and 5 of my DTR 101 page. I have less information on this page because a lot of the information can be found there.

You probably already know that the test is broken down between the four sections:

    1.  Food science and principles (25%)

    2.  ADIME and NTRS care (40%)

    3.  Management (21%)

    4.  Food service systems(14%)

The confusing part is that similar to the DTR, it is an adapting test. Essentially--if you start to get food service questions wrong, they will throw you more food service questions. This is great because it gives you a chance to prove yourself! (keep telling yourself that!)

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You will get anywhere between approximately 125-145 questions (I think I had 138?) So if you don't finish right at 125, don't panic (like I did)!  Each question is weight differently, and you have to score a minimum of a 25 on a scale from 1-50. 

My studying for the RD exam really started in 2017 when I was studying for the DTR, that really helped me to refresh everything I learning in undergrad and to feel really for the internship/test! 

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OK Starting from the beginning of my rotations!

• My internship provided a 1.5 day exam prep with the one and only Jean Inman during our orientation (7-8 months before I took the exam).  It was 1.5 days of highlighting, post-it notes and exhaustion.  But if you get a chance to meet her or attend her seminar, do it! She is hilarious and extremely supportive of your contacting her with questions/when you pass! 

  • I used this Inman guide whenever I had time during my rotations, I made study guides and went over/made new flash cards. I also have an older set of the audio files, so I listened to those ALL THE TIME.  i.e driving, traveling, cardio/gym

• I would recommend studying during your rotations.  Don't wait until you are done to cram and panic!

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• When I returned from my trip in mid-July, I was able to schedule my exam.  I was able to study for 8-10 hours a day being home and visiting with my parents, so I knew I only needed a few weeks (17 days). I know this may not be feasible for everyone, so if you have work/kids/life, just make sure you have a strict schedule that you can stick to!

  • Mine looked like this:

    • 8/9AM: Study for 25-30 min with 5-15 min breaks.  I took tests in the morning because my brain works better that way

    • Around 4PM: Take an LONG hike/workout (because CVD health and fitness) while listening to an audio book or Inman

    • Dinner with my parents, no studying!

    • 7/8PM: Study more if my brain wasn't fried!

    • Early bedtime, and repeat!

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• I used the Inman, EAtRightPrep three day trial (that lasted longer than 3 days!), and other random practice exams that I found online. 

Heads up, the content in the EatRightPrep is COMPLETELY DIFFERENT than the Inman. During my three day trial, I blasted through the exams and quizzes and took notes on what I did wrong.  Which was a lot.  

• I averaged 60-70% with them, and heard that other interns did the same! So take it with a grain of salt and use it as practice taking tests...or don't use it.  I didn't see a whole lot of it translate to my test.​

A few last thoughts:

• Schedule your exam when you know you will be the least stressed! I am a morning person, but did not want to rush to the testing center (30 minute drive away for me plus street parking), so I went with 2PM so I could study, workout in the morning and get there with no rush.

• When studying:

  • ​Write down everything you get wrong, understand the WHY 

  • Don't waste your time with making flash cards or study guides for stuff you already know.  If you can teach it or explain it, move on!

• When you are taking the exam:

  • Read the question, and trust your gut! You've been studying this ISH for years, you friggin know it!!