It takes hard work and dedication to become a registered nurse (RN). Many aspiring RNs are familiar with nursing school and may even anticipate the challenges of clinical rotations, but they are tasked with another major feat: an intense exam known as the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).
Capping off a successful journey through nursing school, the NCLEX provides the powerful opportunity to validate your knowledge and gain a boost of confidence as you uncover job opportunities. Instead of allowing the prospect of the NCLEX to deter you from pursuing your nursing dreams, our colleagues at Carrington College are here to help. NCLEX exam preparation is a priority, particularly for students pursuing their Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). Keep reading for insights into all the best NCLEX study resources and strategies.
Understanding the NCLEX Exam
The NCLEX is a crucial step on the path to becoming a registered nurse. This exam confirms that you possess the clinical knowledge and skills needed to provide a desirable level of care as you work closely with patients.
As a computerized adaptive test (CAT), the NCLEX draws on cutting-edge measurement theories and technologies to create a more precise and efficient approach to testing.[1] This system makes it possible to “re-estimate” the tester’s ability based on both previous answers and the perceived difficulty of completed questions. As a result, additional questions can be tailored based on the determined level of the test-taker.
This CAT setup also involves a unique pass/fail approach, which relies on one of three main rules to determine whether test-takers ultimately pass:
- 95% Confidence Interval Rule. As the most common solution for passing the NCLEX, this rule makes it possible to ace the exam as soon as the exam confirms (with 95% certainty) that test-takers have demonstrated a necessary level of competence.[2]
- Maximum-Length Exam Rule. Some test-takers may demonstrate abilities near those required for the 95% Confidence Interval Rule, but without actually reaching this standard. This is when the Maximum-Length Exam Rule kicks in, offering additional questions until the test’s maximum has been reached.[3]
- Run-out-of-time (R.O.O.T.) Rule. In select situations, test-takers may run out of time before the CAT system has achieved the necessary 95% certainty. In this scenario, the Run-out-of-time (R.O.O.T.) Rule is most relevant. This analyzes a specific number of questions from the test to determine whether candidates pass or fail.[4]
1. How to Create a Solid NCLEX Study Plan
The NCLEX should not be thought of as a one-off event, but rather as a long-term learning process that culminates in an exam. This begins with a detailed study plan as a blueprint to ensure that you prepare at a sustainable pace. Cramming is best avoided, as this will limit retention and add unnecessary stress.
Tips for Effective Study Planning
There is no simple formula for NCLEX success. You cannot dedicate a specific amount of time to studying and assume that long hours alone will guarantee that you pass. The cliché about “studying smart” rings true here. These suggestions should help:
- Set up a specific timeline. NCLEX study time can vary significantly between students, but it is common to dedicate at least one full month to exam prep. No matter how much time you dedicate to this process, you should plan each day and week carefully to ensure you fully cover all relevant subject matter.[5] If you are already a working nurse, consider extending this timeline to accommodate your busy schedule.
- Break subjects into manageable sections. With a solid study plan in place, you can begin to break down study efforts into more manageable chunks. This is most easily achieved by examining the various content categories and sections of the NCLEX and determining how these relate to your previous notes and textbooks, along with more recently acquired NCLEX study resources. Dedicate each session to a specific concept, being mindful of how this relates to overarching test categories and subcategories.
- Schedule regular review periods. Technically speaking, NCLEX exam preparation is all about review. At times, however, concepts may feel fresh, particularly if you haven’t addressed them in several weeks or months. Following an initial, in-depth review, these concepts should be periodically revisited. Spaced repetition can help; this strategy encourages you to revisit information, but at increasing intervals to help boost long-term retention.[6]
- Take steps to prevent burnout. With NCLEX prep, less is often more. This effort can be intense, and burnout is likely unless you prioritize breaks and self-care. On a short-term basis, the Pomodoro Technique can be helpful: alternating focused, 25-minute study sessions with refreshing, five-minute breaks.[7] Be sure to periodically schedule longer breaks to focus on your well-being — whether this looks like cooking, yoga and meditation, long walks, or indulging your hobbies.
2. Best Resources for NCLEX Exam Preparation
There’s no need to go it alone as you embark on your test prep journey. Many resources can guide this process, helping you cover the right concepts while gaining confidence every step of the way.
Top Study Materials
A wide range of helpful NCLEX study resources are readily available to future RNs. Different materials may resonate with different students, so it’s wise to try several to determine which are most helpful. When in doubt, ask your instructors for recommendations.
- NCLEX review books. While old textbooks or notes from previous nursing classes can be helpful, these are not as tailored to actual NCLEX exam content as dedicated review books, which bring a more targeted approach to reviewing relevant concepts. Many review books are available, with varying styles or formats.
- Online NCLEX practice tests. Offering a valuable baseline to confirm both strengths and weaknesses, online practice tests can provide a strong start as you kick off your exam prep. Additionally, this can provide an excellent benchmark along the way, revealing tangible evidence of your improvements or how far you have to go. Many resources offer sample questions or full-blown practice tests.
- NCLEX prep courses. While self-guided study sessions can be valuable, there is value in seeking extra guidance. NCLEX review courses offer exactly that, with both virtual and in-person options available. These take numerous forms and can be tailored to meet your unique needs as an aspiring RN. Keep in mind, however, that NCLEX prep is also purposefully built into many degree programs.
- Mobile apps for on-the-go studying. Not all study sessions need to last multiple hours. Even five minutes can make a difference. Prepare for on-the-go studying by downloading relevant apps such as NCLEX Mastery. Instead of scrolling social media when you’re stuck in line, grab your phone and spend a few minutes reviewing critical concepts.
Recommended Websites and Tools
In addition to using the many resources highlighted above, consider exploring supplemental websites or applications. Though these should not be used in lieu of traditional study guides, they can offer helpful insights that conventional resources may lack.
- Quizlet. Flashcards have long been the go-to strategy for rote memorization— and while some nursing students enjoy creating tangible cards, a digital alternative is also available. Known as Quizlet, this helpful application offers flashcard makers, multiple-choice questions, and other study tools.
- Reddit.Multiple Reddit communities offer insight into the NCLEX test-taking process. The r/StudentNurse subreddit can be a starting point to guide your nursing school journey. As you take a deeper dive into test prep, spend some time exploring the r//PassNclex subreddit. There, you’ll read about fellow nursing students’ experiences and find first-hand advice about taking the NCLEX.
3. NCLEX Test-Taking Strategies
Hours of studying will accomplish little if test-day anxiety prevents you from thinking clearly. Aside from covering essential nursing content, you will want to consider how you tackle the actual test-taking process. Practice tests can help, especially used as an opportunity to put exam strategies into action.
Key Test-Taking Strategies
Test-taking strategies that work well for typical college exams may not be as effective for the NCLEX, which presents unique challenges. How you approach this test matters — and you can improve your chances of success by adopting these tried-and-tested strategies:
- Read each question carefully. Don’t bother with the answer section until you fully understand each question. Take your time to read and comprehend each question, rereading if necessary before you consider the answer. Remember: If you submit a response, you will not be able to return to that answer later on.[8]
- Eliminate obviously incorrect answers. You may frequently find that you feel caught between a few potential answers. This is when you can leverage the process of elimination. Eliminate the most clearly incorrect answers, then focus on comparing and contrasting the remaining options.
- Don’t linger on tough questions. Feeling stumped? Don’t let a difficult question run down the clock. Not only does this waste valuable time; it can also drain your confidence. Maintain a positive mindset and answer the best you can, drawing on your first instincts if necessary.
- Stay calm. The importance of a calm mindset cannot be overstated. Falling into a panicked spiral may prevent you from thinking clearly about critical nursing concepts. Practice calming strategies in advance so that they feel easier to put into action during the official exam. When in doubt, deep breathing is an effective exercise. (Try box breathing: inhaling slowly, holding your breath for a count of four, and exhaling slowly.)[9]
4. Practice With NCLEX Simulators
Even the most knowledgeable students can struggle on the NCLEX if paralyzed by stress. Often, this relates not to the concepts covered in the exam but rather to the intricacies of the test-taking process.
Some students find that this stress can only be overcome through practice. Often, this means mimicking the potentially stressful test-taking environment so that it begins to feel less intimidating.
This is where NCLEX simulations come into play. These go beyond practice tests to help you understand how you might actually feel on the day of the exam — and help you learn to deal with nerves in a more productive manner.
Benefits of Simulated Exams
Simulated exams provide a unique advantage over typical study sessions or practice tests: They force you to tackle the stressors of the test environment head-on so you know how you’re likely to respond on the big day of your exam.
Equipped with this understanding, you can tailor your test-taking strategy accordingly. For example, perhaps perfectionism causes you to spend too much time poring over early test questions rather than maintaining a swift pace. During simulated exams, you can practice picking up the pace.
Similarly, if you know that you struggle with mental rumination during difficult tests, this is your chance to practice using calming strategies like deep breathing.
5. Maintaining a Positive Mindset During NCLEX Preparation
Keep in mind that you have already cleared the first major hurdle, simply by completing intense nursing coursework and graduating with your Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or your Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Trust in the process and in yourself.
Some students actually find motivation through considering the worst-case scenario (the possibility of failing the exam) — and while not the desired outcome, you can always retake the exam. In fact, NCLEX is rather generous in this regard, offering (in most states) the chance to retake the test several times per year.[10]
Strategies for Staying Motivated
If review sessions begin to feel tedious and you’re struggling to maintain motivation in your test prep, plan ahead for these inevitable dips in energy, leveraging clever strategies to keep you on track:
- Form a study group. Build social accountability into the test prep process. Work with fellow students to review key concepts or to complete practice tests. If these sessions are purposefully built into your schedule, they will be more difficult to skip. What’s more, you may actually look forward to these meetings for commiseration when you feel stressed or overwhelmed.
- Reward yourself. Small rewards can pay big dividends, especially if these help you overcome motivation problems. Perhaps you’d love to watch another episode of your favorite show — or maybe you can indulge in a relaxation massage. Try to promise yourself a small reward after each individual study session, along with larger rewards following a full week of targeted test prep.
Final Tips for NCLEX Success
The NCLEX is a marathon, not a sprint. Frame this experience as an opportunity, and you could come away with a stronger understanding of core nursing concepts. Upon passing this crucial exam, you should feel fully prepared to embrace your new role as an RN.
As you plan your test prep strategy, the right nursing program can make a major difference. This is where you will be introduced to the various nursing theories and models that will eventually be covered in key NCLEX content areas. Look for a program that exposes you to these concepts as well as helps you develop the skills needed to study effectively and ace your exam.
Prepare to Ace the NCLEX: How Carrington College Can Help
Ready to ace the NCLEX and take the next step in your nursing career? Start planning your study strategy today, and check out some recommended resources and tips to boost your preparation. Don’t wait — get the tools you need for success and begin your journey toward becoming a licensed nurse!
Sources:
[1] National Council of State Boards of Nursing. “The NCLEX Uses Computer Adaptive Testing (CAT) Video Transcript.” https://www.ncsbn.org/public-files/videos/Transcript_ngn-cat.pdf
[2] National Council of State Boards of Nursing. “NCLEX Exam – 95% Confidence Interval Rule.” https://www.ncsbn.org/recorded-webinar/nclex-exam-95-confidence-interval-rule
[3] National Council of State Boards of Nursing. “Maximum-Length Exam Rule.” https://www.ncsbn.org/recorded-webinar/maximumlength-exam-rule
[4] National Council of State Boards of Nursing. “Next Generation NCLEX: NCLEX-RN Tes Plan.” https://www.ncsbn.org/public-files/2023_RN_Test%20Plan_English_FINAL.pdf
[5] Linares, M. “Your NCLEX Study Plan: When & How to Study.” SimpleNursing. https://simplenursing.com/nclex-study-plan/
[6] UWorld Nursing. “The Benefits of Spaced Repetition for Nursing Students and Programs.” https://nursing.uworld.com/blog/the-benefits-of-spaced-repetition-for-nursing-students-and-programs/
[7] Todoist. “The Pomodoro Technique.” https://www.todoist.com/productivity-methods/pomodoro-technique
[8] Linares, M. “Test Taking Strategies for the NCLEX.” SimpleNursing. https://simplenursing.com/nclex-test-taking-strategies/
[9] American Lung Association. “Simple Breathing Exercises to Help You Manage Stress.” https://www.lung.org/blog/stress-breathing-exercises
[10] Linares, M. “How Many Times Can You Take the NCLEX?” SimpleNursing. https://simplenursing.com/how-many-times-can-you-take-the-nclex/#toc0
