While there are a lot of dos to prepare for the NCLEX, there are also a lot of don’ts when taking the NCLEX. The following are the common hazards you should be avoiding when you’re getting ready for the NCLEX.

Avoid the Extremes: Overconfidence or Total Lack of It

You’re thinking, “I’ve been taking nursing for years. I’ve applied all the concepts. I’ve handled patients. I know this already. I don’t need to review.”

Or you can be panicking, “My whole future depends on the NCLEX. I’m going to fail. I’m going to forget everything I’ve learned and just stare at the computer the entire test.”

• Avoid these radical ideas. Do not cram. Do not lose your nerve either. Be appropriately confident and ready yourself.
• Do not review without a basis. Be familiar with the test content and know all possible topics
• Do not go overboard. Have a realistic study schedule and plan that you can follow.
• Do not waste time. Have a to-do list to help you organize your review.
• Do not lose your focus. Motivate yourself and keep to your timetable.
• Do not be idle. Take as many practice tests as possible. Constant practice can make you competent.
• Do not dispense with audio-visual aids. Flashcards, mnemonic devices and even classical music can help enhance your memory.
• Do not discount review classes, study groups or study partners. You can help each other get prepared to overcome the anxiety and at the same time be productive.
• Stay away from nonchalant students who do not focus on the review.
• Likewise, stay away from people who feed on negativity.
• When studying, stay away from a bed, radio, TV or anything that can easily distract you.  On the other hand, please do anything that normally works for you when you're studying. Don't suddenly change your normally productive study habits.

Do not be negligent, but do not spend every moment studying either. Do not shut yourself from the rest of the world. Study and rest. Review and relax.

Don’ts on Exam Day

• Don’t forget to check if you have all necessary documents and identification required to bring with you.  Call the day before if you need to.
• Prepare your clothes the night before so you have less to worry about in the morning.
• Avoid food that may make you feel sick (i.e. dairy products, fatty food).
• Don’t forget to bring candies, a light snack and water.
• Don’t forget to bring medication for possible migraine, headache, toothache, diarrhea, cough, colds or allergies.
• Do not be late.
• Don’t ignore the facilitator when he’s giving instructions.
• Don’t hesitate to ask questions when in doubt.
• Don’t rely solely on recall and recognition.
• Don’t base answers on personal clinical experience.
• Don’t answer questions impulsively.
• Don’t forget to take restroom breaks before the start of every exam.
• Don’t discuss answers with other exam-takers during the breaks.

Stay away from all these pitfalls and distractions and you will be successful. Pass up on these don’ts when taking the NCLEX and you are sure to pass the most crucial exam that will determine your nursing future.