Test Preparation Tips
From Beare & Thompson, Davis’s Q & A for the NCLEX-RN (1998)
- Practice active learning skills, not passive learning skills. Do not just underline key words; relate new material to what you have already learned.
- Ask yourself questions to predict likely test questions on the material.
- Form a study group of about 5 people at or slightly above your level of ability. Members should come prepared with specific questions.
- Make flash cards for fact memorization. Use 3 x 5 cards. Write questions on one side and its answer on the reverse side. Review cards several times daily.
- Use questions in NCLEX review book as part of your study plan. Outlines in these books are also helpful in understanding basic concepts.
- Convince yourself that all material is interesting; even if surgical nursing doesn’t appeal to you, remember that it’s easier to learn material that you’re interested in. Therefore, try to relate boring topics to other topics that you are interested in.
- Study areas in which you are weak first so that you have more time to devote to them.
- Write summaries of material in your own words to help you grasp concepts.
- Try reading confusing concepts in more than one book. The topic may be explained better in another text.
- Create a mental image of the information. Picture a patient with a certain condition. See yourself performing particular procedures.
- Over learn material- continue to review it even after you think you know it.
- Schedule daily study time, but plan for short breaks and allow for unexpected interruptions. Reward yourself for achieving study goals.
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