The NCLEX-RN is a challenging exam that requires thorough preparation. Effective study strategies can significantly increase your chances of success. This guide will provide you with essential tips and resources to help you excel in your NCLEX-RN studies. We’re going to break down everything from creating a personalized study plan, identifying knowledge gaps, setting realistic goals, and tips for test day.
Table of Contents
Creating a Personalized Study Plan
The first step to studying for your NCLEX-RN is creating a personalized study plan is to assess your knowledge. To do this successfully, you’ll need to be honest with yourself in identifying the areas that you struggle. For example, if you struggle with pharmacology, you’ll need to schedule more time to review drug classifications and side effects.
Once you have assessed your knowledge, you’ll have to break down your study time into manageable chunks. You won’t be able to remember as much if you’re constantly trying to cram information into your brain. Instead, break down your study time into daily and weekly goals, like reviewing 20 flashcards a day and taking a practice test once a week.
Since you’ll be planning out when you’re going to study each topic, it’s a good idea to create a schedule. Make sure you’re referencing your personal schedule so you don’t accidentally overbook yourself.
Effectively Studying for Your NCLEX-RN
Using flashcards, quizzes, or practice exams is a great way to improve your active recall. You should take these quizzes without any notes or textbooks to help you identify areas that you need to focus on. For example, create flashcards with key terms and definitions and take note of which terms you need to work on memorizing.
Spaced repetition is a method where you review material at increased intervals, and is a great way to reinforce learning and improve retention. An app like Spaced Repetition is a free way to memorize flashcards.
The Pomodoro studying technique is where you’ll study in focused 25-minute intervals followed by short breaks to maintain concentration. Set a timer for 25 minutes, work intensely, then take a 5-minute break. Repeat this cycle several times, followed by a longer break.
Resources for Studying
If you’re still struggling to find the best way to study for the NCLEX-RN exam, there are a lot of study courses available. Most studying courses are blocked by paywalls but they can be extremely beneficial to nurses who are struggling to study on their own.
There are a lot of free practice exams that you can take. These tests will let you practice with real NCLEX-RN questions, so you’ll have a better understanding of what to expect. This can also help you find opportunities for improvement so you can create flashcards that will help you.
You know that textbook you spent hundreds of dollars on? If you’re stuck, referencing your textbook can give you in-depth explanations and examples of complex topics. Make sure you reference your textbook when you’re making flashcards.
Lastly, Joining a study group can be an effective way to study. You’ll want to make sure you’re surrounding yourself with people who have strengths that are different from yours, and that they are meeting to study, not just hang out. The right group will help you stay motivated.
Tips for Managing Stress
If you’re reading this, odds are you’re stressing out over passing your NCLEX-RN. Stressing out does not help. It’s completely normal to be stressed out when you’re preparing for your exam. Here are some tips for stress management:
- Take breaks: Step away from news stories, especially those on social media, and give yourself time to unwind.
- Exercise: Physical activity can help relieve stress.
- Eat well: A healthy diet can help reduce the risk of diet-related diseases and protect your cells from damage caused by chronic stress.
- Sleep: Getting enough restful sleep is important.
- Take care of yourself: Avoid unhealthy habits like smoking, vaping, and excessive alcohol consumption.
- Connect with others: Make time for socializing and connecting with friends. I know this sounds hard to do when you have a big test to prepare for, but it can help clear your mind and get you away from the stress of the day.
Breaking Down Complex Information
Breaking down more complex information into digestible chunks can help you memorize information quickly. Here is an example of how you could split up pharmacology to make it more digestible.
- Drug classifications: Understand the different categories of drugs (e.g., analgesics, anti-inflammatories, antibiotics) and their uses. For example, know the different types of insulin and their indications.
- Pharmacokinetics: Learn about how drugs are absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and excreted. For instance, understand the half-life of a drug and how it affects dosing.
- Pharmacodynamics: Study the mechanism of action of drugs and their effects on the body. For example, know how beta-blockers work to lower blood pressure.
- Therapeutic effects and side effects: Be familiar with the intended and unintended effects of common medications. For instance, know the common side effects of acetaminophen and when to monitor liver function.
- Medication administration: Understand the routes of administration, dosages, and nursing considerations. For example, know the correct technique for administering a subcutaneous injection.
By using these NCLEX-RN studying techniques you’ll be able to pass your test with flying colors, and finally become a registered nurse. Remember to keep your mind on the goal, and keep your stress levels as low as possible, and all of your hard work will pay off.
