The Best Way to Study for the NCLEX - Nursing Success by Choosing Nursing
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The Best Way to Study for the NCLEX

The Best Way to Study for the NCLEX: Proven Tips to Pass on Your First Try

 

So, you’ve made it through nursing school (bless you), and now it’s time for the final boss: the NCLEX.
Whether you’re feeling confident or absolutely terrified, one question is probably on your mind:
 
👉 “What’s the best way to study for the NCLEX?”
Great news—you’re in the right place. I’ve helped thousands of students create study plans, build confidence, and CRUSH the NCLEX on their first attempt. Below, I’m sharing my top tips, strategies, and study methods so you can pass the NCLEX like a pro.
 
First Things First: Understand How the NCLEX Works
Before you even crack open a book, you need to know what you’re up against.
The NCLEX is not like your typical nursing school exam. It’s designed to test your critical thinking and clinical judgment more than your ability to memorize random facts.
 
Here’s what makes the NCLEX unique:
  • Computer Adaptive Testing (CAT): The test adapts to your performance.
  • Question formats: Expect multiple choice, SATA (select all that apply), drag and drop, case studies, and more.
  • Next Generation NCLEX (NGN) updates: Now, there’s even more focus on real-world decision-making.
 
 
 
The Best Way to Study for the NCLEX: Step-by-Step
1. Create a Realistic NCLEX Study Plan
If you try to “wing it,” you’re setting yourself up for stress and burnout. Instead:
  • Study for 4-6 weeks leading up to your test date.
  • Set aside 2-4 hours per day (with breaks).
  • Break your study schedule into weekly goals, covering specific topics like Pharmacology, Med-Surg, OB/Peds, and Psych.
✅ Pro tip: Use a pre-made NCLEX study plan like our 4-Week NCLEX Study Guide located inside of our NCLEX Mastery Bundle to stay organized and focused.
 
2. Focus on Understanding, Not Just Memorization
Here’s the truth: memorizing 500 lab values isn’t going to save you on the NCLEX.
Instead, ask yourself:
  • Why is this happening in the body?
  • What should the nurse do first?
  • How does this condition affect the patient as a whole?
The NCLEX loves to throw priority-based questions at you, so you need to know how to THINK like a nurse.
 
3. Master NCLEX Test-Taking Strategies
Even if you know your content, strategy is EVERYTHING on the NCLEX.
My favorite test-taking strategies:
  • Safety first: Always prioritize the patient’s safety.
  • Acute vs. chronic: Acute problems usually take priority.
  • Maslow’s Hierarchy: Address physiological needs before emotional needs.
  • Elimination method: Cross out the obvious wrong answers first.
  • SATA mindset: Treat each option as true/false. Don’t overthink!
 
 
 
4. Practice With NCLEX-Style Questions DAILY
The best way to prepare is by answering practice questions that mimic the real test. Aim for at least 75-150 questions a day using reputable NCLEX resources.
Some top-rated question banks:
 
✅ Pro tip: After each question, REVIEW THE RATIONALE. Even if you got it right!
 
5. Review High-Yield NCLEX Topics
Focus on the areas that show up the most:
  • Pharmacology (know your drug classes!)
  • Priority and delegation
  • Infection control and precautions
  • Cardiac, respiratory, neuro, and renal systems
  • Next Generation case studies and clinical judgment scenarios
✅ Pro tip: My NCLEX Cheat Sheets are perfect for quick, high-yield reviews.
 
6. Take Full-Length Practice Exams
Simulate test day! Take a few full-length NCLEX practice tests under timed conditions to build your stamina and get comfortable with the format.
 
 
7. Don’t Ignore Self-Care
Burnout can tank your performance, even if you’ve studied like crazy.
Protect your mental health by:
  • Getting enough sleep (at least 7-8 hours).
  • Taking breaks between study sessions.
  • Eating healthy, energy-boosting foods.
  • Exercising, even if it’s just a quick walk.
  • Practicing deep breathing or meditation to reduce anxiety.
 
What About the Week Before the NCLEX?
In the final week:
  • Do a light review of high-yield topics.
  • Keep practicing 75-100 questions per day.
  • Rest more. You need brain power!
  • Prepare all your test-day materials and know how you’re getting to the testing center.
 
On Test Day…
Breathe. Trust your preparation. You’ve put in the work, and now it’s time to show what you know.
Remember:
  • Don’t panic if you get a lot of hard questions. That’s a GOOD sign.
  • Keep going until the test shuts off.
  • Take breaks if you need them.
 
Final Thoughts: The Best Way to Study for the NCLEX
To sum it up, the best way to study for the NCLEX is by:
  • Following a strategic study plan.
  • Focusing on understanding key concepts.
  • Practicing with real NCLEX-style questions.
  • Mastering test-taking strategies.
  • Taking care of your body and mind.
And remember, you are NOT alone on this journey. Whether this is your first attempt or your third, passing the NCLEX is absolutely possible with the right plan and mindset.
 
Need More Help?
Grab my NCLEX Success Mastery Bundle for everything you need:
✅ Study plans ✅ Cheat sheets ✅ Practice questions ✅ Video tutorials ✅ Test-taking strategies
 
 
And if you found this post helpful, please share it with a fellow nursing student who’s on the same path! 💜