Do You Really Need to Study for the OACP?
Do You Really Need to Study for the OACP?
Do you really need to study for the OACP? In the last few years, there has been advice given on various forums that you don't need to study. I've even read that someone said the police services won't hire people who are too smart! This is NOT TRUE.
You need to study because the SIGMA SSPO testing, which is part of the OACP testing, is based on language (spelling and grammar), problem solving, judgment, mapping, and good old reading comprehension. These are not everyday topics of conversation. They are not common-sense. It's been awhile since you were in school, right?
You may have noticed I've gone back to a more conversational style of blog post. I am sick of AI stuff so my blog posts are now more informal but full of good information. I don't really care if it drops my ranking on Google ... I just want to help good candidates not make avoidable mistakes. Let me know if you enjoyed this! Gillian
Phones have made us Dumber!
Statistics indicate that our average adult reading level has GONE DOWN in the last ten years. In other words, someone who passed ten years ago might not pass today!
Think about that.
If you grew up with a phone in your hand, (and I love my phone for digital organization don't get me wrong), you are not likely to pass this test without studying. It's a tough, standardized test and you're going to be wrung out afterwards. It's designed to not be able to finish it. It's a form of IQ test.
Why do the not-so-fun Work of Studying?
There are many advantages to studying for the OACP SIGMA SSPO test that I can see (after 21 years of helping):
1. You will do better on the test (guaranteed) and are more likely to go through to the next stage (being invited for an interview).
2. You do well so you're beating your competition that's also being scored on everything at every stage. You can pass your interview and psych but still get deferred due to low test scores.
3. You are now used to studying and taking notes online, so you are more prepared for Police College. (Real feedback from clients.)
4. It build character. Yes, cliche, but not so much these days. You need internal fortitude and resilience to succeed at big goals and this helps build routines, time management, and organization.
Next Steps?
To be blunt, sign up and get going on your studying. If you need a sounding board or accountability, just reach out daily with your progress email to me. Organize your calendar.
Overwhelmed? You can do this step-by-step. Policing is a great job. Injuries and shootings have gone down over the last 20 years. Don't believe the media. It's a great paying job with great upward mobility over the years. No two days will be alike.
Questions? Email Gillian at cognitiveresults@gmail.com.
You may have noticed I've gone back to a more conversational style of blog post. I am sick of AI stuff so my blog posts are now more informal but full of good information. I don't really care if it drops my ranking on Google ... I just want to help good candidates not make avoidable mistakes. Let me know if you enjoyed this! Gillian