When asked to describe the way they study, most recruits preparing for a firefighter aptitude test will say that they answer practice questions. If they come across an incorrect answer, some fire recruits will read the resource’s explanation, some will check out my YouTube channel for firefighter study videos, and some will skip trying to understand why they got the question wrong in the first place.
Why Most Recruits Struggle With Firefighter Aptitude Test Prep
The problem with this study routine is that it does very little to improve a recruit’s chances of getting better firefighter test scores. While there is a place for practice questions, I encourage you to do more with your firefighter test prep time to deepen your understanding of what you’re being tested on so that your scores will improve over time.
Schedule Time for Firefighter Aptitude Test Preparation
First, start by blocking out time in your calendar to study. Schedule three to four 50-minute sessions per week. You can double up, but be sure to add a 10-minute break in between to give your brain a rest. I also recommend changing subjects when studying in consecutive sessions. For example, first study Firefighter Math. Then take a break. Afterwards, study Mechanical Aptitude.
Next, plan your study session so that it includes 10-15 minutes of review, 20-30 minutes of learning new material, and 10-15 minutes of consolidation. This is my proven method to improve firefighter practice test results.
How to Structure a 50-Minute Firefighter Study Session
This blog breaks down ideas for you to incorporate into a structured study session that maximizes your focus and retention to get better results on the CPS Test, FACT/OFAI, FireTEAM and other entry-level firefighter aptitude tests in Canada and the U.S.
Step 1: Review — Strengthen Your Memory Before You Learn
To ingrain material into your long-term memory, you have to work with it often. Think of your review period as a time to see the material again, but in a new way. Reviewing material at the beginning of a study session is advantageous as it acts as a primer for you to lead into and make connections with the new material you are learning.
Activities for the first 10-15 minutes of your firefighter study session (choose one):
- Read it. Write it. Say it. This is an excellent approach for things you need to know before writing your firefighter exam like multiplication facts and mechanical reasoning formulas. Read, write, and say these concepts out loud. Repeat the process until the content sticks.
- Use a new and relevant resource (check out my firefighter aptitude test preparation video tutorials and print materials). Identify and work on questions that are similar to those you struggle with.
- Use the Leitner System with flashcards. This spaced repetition strategy focuses your study time on the material you find most challenging, leading to more efficient and long-lasting memory retention.
- Read the table of contents in a firefighter test preparation book and review the resource’s lessons before attempting a set of practice questions.
- Read firefighter-related books and magazines to build background knowledge, improve literacy skills, and expand vocabulary. This is useful for the CPS Test, FACT/OFAI, and FireTEAM firefighter exams.
Step 2: Learn — Focus on Weak Areas for Better Firefighter Test Scores
Learning forces you to identify and work on your weaknesses. Focus on areas where you are not scoring 85% or higher.
Activities for the next 20-30 minutes of your firefighter study session (choose any combination):
- Get clear on what you are learning. Pick one topic and go deep. For example, focus on adding fractions for your firefighter practice test.
- Read explanations in the back of your firefighter aptitude test preparation materials and watch my video tutorials on the same topic. Compare steps and replicate them on your own.
- Record steps to solve problems in your own words. Include numbered lists, mnemonics, and real-life examples to help you remember how to answer specific test questions.
- Create flow charts and diagrams. This will help you visually organize information.
- Make flashcards for things that you need to remember like facts and formulas.
- Complete worksheets and practice questions in your weak areas.
For targeted firefighter aptitude test preparation, check out my CPS test prep course page or FACT/OFAI firefighter test prep course page.
Step 3: Consolidate — Make Your Knowledge Stick
Consolidation strengthens memory and ensures clarity on all topics.
Activities for the last 10-15 minutes of your firefighter study session (choose one):
- Summarize the concepts in your own words. This is great for science and tool questions.
- Try active recall. Use your memory and recite what you learned.
- Visualize solving problems. Go through each step in your head and picture what you have to do.
- Explain how to answer practice questions to others or in front of a mirror.
- Complete a practice test to assess your knowledge. This is a must for firefighter aptitude test prep.
Why This 50-Minute Study Plan Works for Aspiring Firefighters
In my 13 years of helping fire recruits prepare for firefighter aptitude tests, I’ve seen the difference between cramming and structured study. The 50-minute study plan works for aspiring firefighters across Canada and the U.S. who must pass the CPS Test, FACT/OFAI, and FireTEAM to move forward in their firefighter recruitments.
By structuring your firefighter aptitude test preparation study sessions with review, learning, and consolidation, you’re building the skills needed to raise your firefighter test scores and succeed in the firefighter hiring process.
Next Steps: Put This Study Plan Into Action
Now that you know how to structure your 50-minute firefighter aptitude test preparation study sessions, it’s time to apply it on your own. Focus on:
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Reviewing concepts and questions in new ways over an extended period of time
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Learning new concepts and applying study strategies, so that your test scores will actually improve
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Consolidating what you learned and assessing your ability to answer related firefighter test questions
Start small. Schedule one or two 50-minute sessions this week and see how it improves your understanding and test performance. Over time, this structured approach will help you raise your firefighter aptitude test scores and build confidence for the CPS Test, FACT/OFAI, and other entry-level firefighter exams.
Lou-Anne McPherson
