4 Tips for Taking the NCLEX®

If you’re a recent nursing school graduate, congratulations! That’s no small accomplishment. Especially when balancing school with other demands such as work, family and friends.

Now you face another big hurdle: the National Council Licensing Examination for Registered Nurses, better known as the NCLEX®. Taking the NCLEX is not impossible, and we're here to help you better prepare to pass with flying colors.

Community now sponsors the Hurst RN NCLEX® Review Course. Learn more on our Nursing Education page and in the flyer below.

NCLEX Course Flyer

1. Have the right mindset

You've already undergone years of schooling and clinicals, so trust your base of medical knowledge. Remember that it's not about cramming or quick memorization. The NCLEX is about applying critical thinking to your base knowledge across different scenarios. Your coursework and clinical experiences have already done the heavy lifting for you. Pause and ask yourself, "Okay, what is this scenario telling me? What could be going on here? What is my role as a nurse in this specific scenario? and, How can I apply what I've learned?" Establish this mindset as you begin your study prep.

2. Use your resources

Nursing schools do a great job of helping graduates prepare for this exam. They are invested in your success and have given many resources for you to use.

And, if you have the opportunity to work in a healthcare setting, it’s important to be curious. Ask questions. Learn from the experience of other nurses. That’s what makes you better.

Find a study partner from your classes or clinicals! You can test each other by running through sample questions/scenarios, or quizzing about material you feel less confident in. Having a buddy system can also help you feel less overwhelmed, more confident in your study plan and less alone when taking your exam.

3. Give yourself time

Cramming for this test will not work. Make sure you give yourself plenty of time to begin studying before your exam date. A great way to do this is by blocking out study time each day with example scenarios. Find a time that works best for you, whether its in the morning or night. Find what works best for you and commit to it. The key is to make sure you’re not just reading, but taking in what it means. Look at the big picture in each scenario before answering a prompt.

Don't get stuck on one question. It may sound like five hours is plenty of time but a few questions can quickly add up if you feel stuck and spend too much time on one tricky question. Remember that this test is pass/fail using algorithms to determine your score. According to simplenursing.com, one of three rules is used by the computer to determine if you pass or fail the NCLEX:

1. Run-out-of-time (R.O.O.T.) Rule – Maxing out the five-hour time limit could indicate failure.
2. Maximum-Length Exam Rule – Answering the maximum 145 questions could also indicate failure.
3. 95% Confidence Interval Rule – The NCLEX will pass you if you hit a 95% confidence interval based on correct answers.

4. Be kind to yourself

Be kind to yourself. Keep in mind that you know more than you think. Trust your gut when processing a question or scenario! Try not to let the pressure overwhelm you and focus on what's in front of you.

Taking exams like the NCLEX is always going to be stressful. Be kind to yourself by also putting a stress management plan together. Try tools like time blocking to ensure you prioritize quality sleep, food, relaxation techniques, etc.

And remember, you can do this! You've done the work. Now it's time to put it to the final test (literally). You'll do great.

For more about nursing education, placement opportunities, and career development, visit our Nursing Education page.