My Plan
My last semester of nursing school we developed a personal NCLEX study plan that outlined test prep, registration process, resources we planned to use and our projected testing date. My study plan also included rest periods and the number of questions I plan to do each day. With me graduating in mid December I decided that six weeks was just the right amount of time for me especially with the approaching holiday season. My projected NCLEX date was for the end of January.
Resources I Used
- Hurst 3-day review and materials
- UWorld RN 3 month package
- Saunders NCLEX Review online
During school I was not the A+ student so I knew I needed a refresh. I chose Hurst because they focused heavily on understanding core content. The three day review included long days but the instructor made it entertaining. UWorld was recommended by almost every nurse I talked to at my assigned hospital. I felt as though it was a great test bank that was very similar to the NCLEX. I enjoyed the question bank through Saunders because of the ability to choose the type of questions you wanted to practice as it pertains to the categorizes of the NCLEX
NCLEX Tips
- BREATHE You made it this far and can do this!
- Make a calendar plan
- Do practice questions like your life depends on it. I did close to 2,000.
- Always Think Safety First!
- Don’t spend a lot of time reviewing content. You just spend two years learning how to be a nurse. I know you at least have the basics down.
- Refresh ONLY the areas you were weak in during school.
- As you complete questions be sure to read the rationales for each question. Use this as your study guide.
- Schedule NCLEX free days for self care.
Testing Experience
I personally did not think the NCLEX was too difficult. It actually shocked me how comfortable I was able to answer the questions. Although my test ended at 75 questions in less than an hour I was prepared to sit for the entire 245 questions. Reframe from getting caught up in the number of questions you may get or the time it may take you to complete the exam. This will only heighten your anxiety and we don’t need that. Also can you imagine a patient asking you how many questions you got on the NCLEX before consenting to your care? Yeah, nobody cares once you pass. We need clear minds on test day. Pack your snacks and water. Arrive early. Breathe and Believe.
Seriously Dimitria 