Are you preparing to take the NCLEX? If so, you’re probably feeling overwhelmed. After all, this is many exams that will determine whether or not you get your nursing license. There is no time to waste as preparations must be done for success. With that said, it could be hard to know what exactly needs to be done and where your focus should lie with limited time available.
Here we have compiled our best last-minute tips for those about to embark on their journey towards acing the NCLEX.
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Last Minute Tips for NCLEX 2023
Make sure you know the basics. It’s easy to get into the weeds with all the details of nursing knowledge, but don’t forget to review basic concepts like anatomy, physiology and pharmacology. You will likely see questions on these topics on your NCLEX exam, so ensure you fully grasp them.
1. Use Mnemonics
Mnemonics are memory devices that can help you remember important facts and concepts for the NCLEX. They may seem silly initially, but they can be instrumental when studying and preparing for your exam.
2. Review a “cram” sheet to look over the basics
A “cram” sheet is a single page of the critical information you may need to know for the test. This can include anything from common medications and their doses to lab values and other facts. Reviewing this type of information can be helpful when trying to remember those more minor details.
3. Get in a good headspace before your exam
It’s essential to take time before the exam and focus on being present. This can include taking a walk, listening to music, meditating, or journaling. This will help you clear your head to be in the best possible frame of mind when sitting for the NCLEX.
4. Avoid Absolutes
When studying for the NCLEX, it’s important to remember that there are no absolutes. You will likely see questions on the exam with more than one possible answer, so it’s essential to be flexible and consider all options.
5. Take Practice Tests
Practice tests are an excellent way to determine where to focus your attention when studying for the NCLEX. Practice tests can also help you get used to the format and style of questions you will likely encounter on the exam.
6. Review Frequently Asked Topics
Familiarize yourself with some of the more commonly asked topics on the NCLEX, such as pharmacology, health promotion and management of care. This information will help you answer questions confidently and quickly on test day.
7. Stay Positive
Finally, remember to stay positive throughout your journey! This is a challenging exam, but with hard work, dedication and focus, you can achieve success. Believe in yourself, and don’t forget to take breaks when needed.
8. Focus on application questions, not memorization
The NCLEX is an “application-based” test, so it’s essential to focus on how to apply your knowledge to the questions rather than just memorizing facts and figures. Make sure you understand the fundamentals of a concept before attempting to answer any questions related to it.
9. Get a study partner
Having a study buddy can be very helpful as they can provide motivation, support and accountability when studying for the NCLEX. Working together can help you stay on track and ensure you make the most of your time.
10. Get a good night of sleep
Sleep is essential when it comes to studying for the NCLEX. Make sure you are getting enough sleep every night and that you are well-rested before taking the exam.
11. Set An Alarm Clock
Please set an alarm clock to remind you of when it is time to start studying or when it is time to stop. This will help keep you focused and from wasting too much time.
12. Eat a hearty breakfast or meal beforehand
Eating a nutritious breakfast or meal before taking the NCLEX can help fuel your brain and give you the energy needed to get through the exam.
13. Avoid Alcohol The Week Of The Exam
Alcohol can hurt your cognitive abilities, so avoiding it the week of the exam is best. Stick with water and other non-alcoholic beverages to stay hydrated and focused for the big day.
14. Avoid Excessive Caffeine Before The Exam
Excessive caffeine can be counterproductive because it may make you feel jittery or anxious before the exam. Try to drink coffee earlier in the day so that your body has time to process it rather than drinking it right before the exam.
Final Words
By following these best last-minute NCLEX tips, you will be well on your way to passing the exam. Determinate to stay positive and believe in yourself – you can do it with hard work, dedication, and focus.
Mrs. Marie Brown has been a registered nurse for over 25 years. She began her nursing career at a Level I Trauma Center in downtown Chicago, Illinois. There she worked in the Emergency Department and on the Surgical Intensive Care Unit. After several years, she moved to the Midwest and continued her nursing career in a critical care setting. For the last 10 years of her nursing career, Mrs. Brown worked as a flight nurse with an air ambulance service. During this time, she cared for patients throughout the United States.