It is most important to consider national data when interpreting DRTs. While these exams were conceptually constructed to assess “mastery” of knowledge at 80%, a more diligent look at national data gives you an idea of how you perform compared to others around the country. Both total average score and sub-scores of each topical category should be analyzed.

Not surprisingly, many initial scores on DRTs usually do not meet the 80% mark. There are numerous extraneous variables that come into play, some more obvious than others.

The most common extraneous variables affecting test scores on DRTs include the amount of preparation, the selected test setting, and the point at which the test was taken in your course of study.

Most students take a DRT with no preparation, and some may choose to take a DRT before completing a course of study. Thus, while test results are valuable at this point for future remediation, it is again important to remember that these exams measure performance at a certain place in time in your studies.

As you transition from graduation toward your national certification exam, priorities shift, and adequate review and preparation become the primary focus. Such is seen in the test results of subsequent DRTs taken by students after graduation and for many, after attending a national certification review/clinical update course.