---
title: "Methodology — How PTCB Ready Calibrates Your Readiness Score"
description: "Exactly how our scaled-score estimate, verdict bands, difficulty tags, and question verification work — published from day one, updated as outcome data accrues."
updated: 2026-08-03
canonical: https://ptcbready.com/methodology
source-hash: a8226cc57faa73ac
sources:
  - "PTCB CPhT program page (official scale)": https://www.ptcb.org/credentials/certified-pharmacy-technician
---

# Methodology — How PTCB Ready Calibrates Your Readiness Score

> Exactly how our scaled-score estimate, verdict bands, difficulty tags, and question verification work — published from day one, updated as outcome data accrues.

## The readiness model, in the open

Scaled-score estimates use a piecewise-linear map anchored to the official scale (1,000–1,600, pass 1,400), with 72.5% correct on the 80-scored basis anchored to the passing score. It is an estimate with real uncertainty, not an official conversion.

| % correct (scored basis) | Estimated scaled score |
| --- | --- |
| 0% | 1,000 |
| 50% | 1,280 |
| 72.5% | 1,400 |
| 90% | 1,530 |
| 100% | 1,600 |

Verdict bands: Not yet · Close — drill your weakest domain · Likely ready. Every question carries domain/topic tags and a written explanation; fact questions carry primary-source references; math answers are computed by the engine, never hand-written. Errors reported by users are fixed with a public, dated changelog entry.

---
Maintained by PTCB Ready (https://ptcbready.com) — not affiliated with or endorsed by PTCB®.
Cite as: PTCB Ready, updated 2026-08-03. Interactive version: https://ptcbready.com/methodology