Breathe. You’ll be All Right

With just a few months or weeks away, you may want to learn the best tips in preparing for the NCLEX before you start panicking. The National Council Licensure Exam is the definite test for all nursing graduates. You know that you have to pass it to get your license and become a qualified entry-level nurse. This idea alone is enough to make you feel anxious.

Do not panic. While there’s still time, this is what you can do:

The Best Ways to Review What You Learned

1. Be familiar with the test content. Know all possible topics. Find out how the exam is administered. Generally, you can expect a 5-hour computerized exam with multiple choice questions.

2. Take as many diagnostic exams as possible to assess your knowledge. You can find sample practice nursing tests online.

3. Decide if you need to take review classes. Review programs provide you test-taking techniques and practice tests.

4. Have a study partner or join a study group. Studying on your own tends to be dull and mind-numbing. You can also get pointers from others.

5. Have a feasible study schedule that you can follow. Maintain a planner to keep track of your progress and to remind you how much time you have left before the exam.

6. Have a to-do list to keep things organized and to maximize your study time. Keep you plans and goals realistic. List want you want to accomplish three months before the exam down to the last week.

7. Find a study place conducive for learning. Stay away from a bed, radio, telephone, TV or anything that can distract you.

8. Use audio-visual aids. Flashcards are great tools to help you in your review. You can also bring them along when traveling. Listening to classical music helps you deal with the nerves and retain information.

Dealing with the Questions

1. Take as many practice questions as possible to develop critical thinking skills.

2. Never guess answers.

3. Read options for hints.

4. Avoid the following pitfalls when answering questions:
a. Relying solely on recall and recognition. Questions involve application of nursing theories. Avoid choosing answers that just “sound” right.
b. Basing answers on personal clinic experience instead of established nursing principles.
c. Selecting the longest option. Lengthy and complicated answers aren’t always correct answers.
d. Answering familiar questions impulsively. Take time to analyze each question. The actual NCLEX is automated and there is no returning to a question once you’ve already selected and submitted your answer.

Relax! You Can Do This

1. Prepare physically, emotionally and mentally. Eat well and get enough rest. Do not spend every moment studying. Exercise and meet friends. Too much pressure doesn’t help.

2. Have a positive outlook. Be confident. Believe that you will pass the NCLEX.

3. On the night before the test, do not study! Give yourself a break. Get a good night’s sleep and wake up early, refreshed and ready to pass the NCLEX.

Follow these best tips in preparing for the NCLEX and you will do just fine.