Hey there, future dentist—I’m Dr. Sehar, and this might be exactly what you need to hear

I want to share something that I talk about with almost every new student during our free 30-minute orientation session at Dentabest. It’s not just about the books, the topics, or how many questions you’ve solved.

It’s about how your brain plays tricks on you—especially under exam pressure.

You might know the material. You might have done a million MCQs. But if you’re making small decision-making errors—like rushing through familiar questions or second-guessing the right answers—you’re likely being pulled into what we call cognitive biases.

And that’s what I help you fix, personally.

Let’s unpack this—what are cognitive biases and why should you care?

Imagine you read a question, see a keyword you recognize—let’s say “bleeding gums”—and before you’ve even finished reading, your brain shouts “Vitamin C deficiency!”

That’s a cognitive bias in action. Specifically, it’s anchoring bias—when your first impression overrides everything else.

You didn’t mean to do it. You just… did.

These little traps are why even brilliant dentists, with years of experience, sometimes fail the AFK. And I promise you—you’re not alone. I’ve seen it over and over again with international students. That’s why I make it part of our actual AFK prep plan at Dentabest.

These are the 4 biggest mental traps I see in my students—and how I help you avoid them

1. Anchoring Bias – Falling for the first tempting option

You read the question and A seems right. So you choose it—even if B is more accurate. During our sessions, I teach you how to slow your thinking down. You learn how to pause and question your instinct before locking in an answer.

2. Confirmation Bias – Looking for info that supports your first guess

You want your guess to be right so badly that you ignore the actual clues. I gently show you how to think like a detective, not a cheerleader. Let’s gather all the evidence before reaching a conclusion.

3. Overconfidence – “I already know this” syndrome

Many students feel confident in certain subjects like dental anatomy or caries—and that’s great! But AFK loves throwing curveballs in familiar topics. I train you to approach every question with fresh eyes.

4. Avoidance – Skipping tough topics like pharmacology or pathology

I know you don’t want to study that scary subject. It’s fine—I’ve seen it a thousand times. But we break it down together. I’ll turn that fear into confidence with mini-lessons, live support, and yes—even a little humor.

Let me walk you through a real example I use with students

Here’s a sample question I often share during coaching:

A 50-year-old man presents with fatigue, gingival bleeding, and pallor. His blood test shows immature white cells. What’s the diagnosis?

A) Iron-deficiency anemia
B) Leukemia
C) Periodontal disease
D) Scurvy

If you shouted “A!”—you’re not alone. Most students do.

But when we sit together, I guide you through the clues: “immature white cells” isn’t anemia. It’s leukemia. That’s anchoring bias—your brain fell in love with “pallor” and “fatigue” and tuned out the rest.

Now imagine practicing this kind of awareness every day before your exam. That’s what we do together.

How I train you to outsmart your brain (and the exam)

Step-Back Technique

After every answer you select, I teach you to pause and ask: “If this weren’t the first option, would I still choose it?” This is one of the fastest ways to correct anchoring bias.

Elimination Method (done right)

Instead of picking what seems right, we eliminate what’s definitely wrong. This strategy builds clarity and control. I guide you through it live during practice questions.

Rephrasing the question in your own words

Sometimes the problem isn’t your knowledge—it’s the question’s phrasing. I’ll have you reword the question aloud so your brain sees it clearly. Trust me—it works like magic.

Here’s how we do it at Dentabest—together, step-by-step

I created Dentabest because I wanted students like you to stop feeling lost. You’re capable, smart, and driven—you just need someone to walk with you through the fog.

Here’s what I offer:

One-on-One Coaching

This is where I really get to know you. We’ll talk about your habits, your fears, and your learning style. Then I’ll build a plan just for you.

Mock Exams That Feel Like the Real Thing

You won’t just take a mock—you’ll get feedback. We’ll sit down and analyze every decision. You’ll learn how your brain thinks—and how to make it work for you, not against you.

Flexible Class Plans

Whether you want to go slow or dive deep, I’ve got a class plan that fits your needs and your schedule. This isn’t cookie-cutter learning—it’s real, human coaching.

Before we wrap up—this is my message to you

You are not “bad at exams.”
You are not “too late to start.”
You are not alone.

I’ve helped hundreds of international dentists pass the AFK—many of whom doubted themselves in the beginning. And now, they’re practicing, thriving, and proud of how far they’ve come.Let’s work together to make you one of them. Book your free 30-minute session, and I’ll help you see exactly where you are, where you’re headed, and how to get there—with confidence, clarity, and a whole lot of encouragement.

FAQs from students like you

You don’t have to figure this out alone.
Let’s pass the AFK together—the smart, strategic, human way.
— Dr. Sehar | Director and CEO, Dentabest INC