Knowing how to study for the NCLEX-RN is the first step to preparing. You’ll want to create a distraction-free study space and develop a study plan. You should know the test format and question types. Use NCLEX-RN tips, such as nursing mnemonics, and take multiple practice tests to identify problem areas.
You’ll need to pass the NCLEX-RN to become a licensed registered nurse (RN). This test is challenging, underscoring the importance of learning how to study for the NCLEX-RN strategically. There are specific study strategies you can use, although your nursing education at Utica University will provide the best preparation for success on the NCLEX-RN.
Utica’s Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program prepares our students to not only pass the NCLEX-RN but also to serve as effective nurse leaders in clinical practice. With a comprehensive curriculum and individualized support, Utica’s ABSN program is a top choice for future nurses.
As you look ahead to your test date, start by becoming familiar with the NCLEX-RN format and question types. You’ll also want to try effective NCLEX-RN study tips, like using mnemonics. Lastly, make a plan to reduce anxiety on test day.
Understand the NCLEX-RN Test Format Before You Study
The NCLEX-RN tests more than just your knowledge of nursing theories and concepts; it also measures your clinical decision-making skills based on the NCSBN Clinical Judgment Measurement Model (NCJMM). The NCJMM explains the precise steps a nurse must follow for every clinical situation. This framework is as follows:
- Analyze cues
- Evaluate outcomes
- Generate solutions
- Prioritize hypotheses
- Recognize cues
- Take action
It’s important to consider this framework when answering exam questions. To better assess your ability to follow this framework and make appropriate clinical judgments, the NCLEX-RN includes various question types that emphasize case studies and clinical scenarios. Some examples of these types of questions are as follows:
- Extended multiple-response: These questions are like the multiple-response questions, but there are more options, and you can choose more than one answer.
- Extended drag-and-drop: For these questions, you’ll move the appropriate responses into the answer spaces.
- Cloze (drop-down): You’ll select an option from a drop-down list. For example, after reading a passage, you must choose the correct response from a chart, table, or other item.
- Enhanced hot spot: You’ll answer these questions by highlighting the answer. For instance, you’ll read a passage and highlight the portion that answers the question.
- Matrix grid: For these items, you’ll choose multiple answers on a chart.
- Unfolding case studies: You’ll see medical record information paired with questions that lead you through recognizing and analyzing cues, making appropriate clinical judgments, and evaluating the outcome.
You’ll answer these types of questions across the following test categories:
- Safe and Effective Care Environment
- Management of Care
- Safety and Infection Control
- Health Promotion and Maintenance
- Psychosocial Integrity
- Physiological Integrity
- Basic Care and Comfort
- Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies
- Reduction of Risk Potential
- Physiological Adaptation
With the format and question types in mind, follow some actionable NCLEX-RN tips to prepare.
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Create a Personalized NCLEX-RN Study Plan
Creating an NCLEX-RN study plan can help you stay on track and hold yourself accountable. Determine how many weeks you’ll have until your intended test date. Then, determine which topics you’d like to cover during each week. Create a study schedule, blocking off time each day to study. You’ll also need to set aside time to take practice tests.
How to Study for the NCLEX-RN More Effectively
In addition to ensuring you are spending adequate time studying, it’s important to optimize the time you have, such as by avoiding distractions. Create a distraction-free study space, ideally in a quiet area of your home.
If you live with others, let them know that you need to focus and ask them to limit interruptions during your study time. Setting up your space in a room with a door you can close is ideal, or you can use noise-canceling headphones.
Use Nursing Mnemonics to Memorize Complex Information
Mnemonics are memory aids that can help you retain information. There are plenty of nursing mnemonics you can use, including:
- ADPIE for the nursing process: Assessment, Diagnosis, Planning, Implementation, and Evaluation
- HELLP for severe preeclampsia: Hemolysis, Elevated Liver enzymes, and Low Platelet count
- PIE for documentation: Problem, Intervention, and Evaluation
- SALT LOSS for the symptoms of hyponatremia: Stupor/coma, Anorexia, Lethargy, Tendon reflexes decreased, Limp muscles, Orthostatic hypotension, Seizures/headaches, and Stomach cramping
Mnemonics are an NCLEX-RN study tip that you can use throughout nursing school to prepare for exams, not just the licensure exam.
Take Practice Tests to Measure Readiness and Build Test Skills
Look online for sample NCLEX-RN test questions and answer at least a few every day in the months leading up to your exam date. There are apps and websites that offer daily questions. Be sure to read the explanations of the answers carefully, even for questions you answer correctly.
In addition to getting into the habit of answering a few practice questions each day, you should take a few full-length practice exams during and after your time in nursing school. You’ll become familiar with the format and questions, and identify your problem areas, enabling you to study more effectively
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NCLEX-RN Study Tips for Reducing Test Anxiety
It’s common to experience some test anxiety ahead of the exam, particularly on test day itself. Try to avoid last-minute cramming, as this can worsen your anxiety. Instead, prioritize getting plenty of sleep the night before, eating a nutritious breakfast, and getting to the testing center well ahead of the scheduled time with everything you need to bring.
If the testing center is in an area you’ve never been to before, you may wish to drive there a few days beforehand to ensure you know the route. GPS directions can sometimes be misleading. Driving the route in advance can prevent last-minute problems and boost your confidence in your testing readiness.
How ABSN Programs Help Students Prepare for the NCLEX-RN
As a student in Utica’s ABSN program, you will have many resources to help prepare. One of the most effective ways we help you prepare is by integrating NCLEX-RN prep into our curriculum. Students can expect NCLEX-RN-style exams throughout the program.
Our ABSN students can also use Kaplan testing as an ongoing resource to practice for the exam. Many students take a Kaplan course after graduation to prepare for the NCLEX-RN. In contrast, our Kaplan course goes along with each semester and builds on the material. There is a Kaplan exam for each specialty, consisting of 75–90 multiple-choice questions structured like NCLEX-RN questions. This can help students assess how well they are retaining what they’ve learned.
Although you will have Kaplan as an ongoing resource, your final days in the ABSN program will be dedicated solely to NCLEX-RN prep. You’ll receive plenty of effective NCLEX-RN tips and personalized guidance on how to ace the test.
Get Started Today at Utica University
At Utica University, we provide extensive student support resources so you can launch your nursing career on an accelerated schedule. In addition to an Academic Success Coach who will work with you one-on-one, you’ll have access to Kaplan NCLEX-RN test prep resources from day one of the program.
Request more information and connect with an admission representative today to discuss the admission requirements and process.
