Teachers are always crunched for time, that’s no secret. And we have a lot of paperwork, that’s another not so secret secret. So any little tips or tricks we can pick up along the way to help us save a few minutes are like gold in our book.
Today The Intentional IEP is going to introduce you to a few data collection shortcuts. You’ll no longer need to write out “hand over hand” when conducting data collection trials.
General use data shortcuts:
I- independent
SC – self corrected
VP – verbal prompt
IV – indirect verbal
DV – direct verbal
G – gestural prompt
M – model needed
PV – picture visual
VC – visual cue
IP – indirect prompt
PP – partial physical prompt
FP – full physical prompt / HOH – hand over hand prompt
RR – reduced responses (can follow with a number to share how many responses the student had to choose from)
OA – oral administration
NR – no response
TP – teacher prompt
WA – with assistance
AP – accommodations provided
MDP / MP – modifications provided
ASL / SL – sign language used
+ successful trial
– unsuccessful trial
SM / circled M – skill mastery
TM – target met
TNM – target not met
When it comes to behavior data shortcuts, try these:
S – sleeping
NF – not focused on task
PA – physically aggressive
VA – verbally aggressive
RP – restrictive procedure
PD – property damage
SIB – self injurious behavior
L – loud vocals / inappropriate vocals
IB – inappropriate behavior

Add this free PDF printable to your teacher binder, para binders, sub binders, or each center/station in your classroom for adult reference.

If every upcoming IEP sends you searching for the next goal, form, data sheet, training, or reminder, the problem probably isn’t that you need more resources. You need a better way to manage the process. The Intentional IEP System connects the tools, guidance, and workflows special educators need across the IEP lifecycle so you can stop managing IEPs one meeting at a time and start working more intentionally. See what intentional IEP management looks like →