Look at these nursing students from the Capital City School of Nursing in Washington, D.C. In this picture, taken in 1933, these nursing students look calm, confident, and ready to face the world. I’m going to let you in on a little secret. These nursing students were worried, just like you are about passing their state nursing board examination. I got a headache and was sick to my stomach the day I took my boards. Are you nervous about taking the NCLEX-RN? Never fear. With a little preparation, you, too, can pass your test.

The NCLEX-RN tests your nursing knowledge, as well as your critical thinking skills. The test sounds overwhelming, but you can get ready for the test by purchasing a good book. There are many good study guidebooks available online. These books will help you become familiar with test content and format, and topics covered on the exam. Look for a book that includes at least two practice tests, detailed explanations of test answers, and in-depth analysis of NCLEX-RN exam questions.

Studying in a dedicated room of your home, free of distractions, will help you keep your learning materials in one place and will also help you keep in the routine of studying for your test. It’s important that you study everyday in a well lit area so you feel more confident when you take your exam. Study for an extended period and take short breaks. This will help you focus, and improve your ability to concentrate on the test day. It’s also fun to study with a partner. Study partners can keep you motivated, and they can make studying more enjoyable. Change study topics frequently to help keep the material fresh. Also, let friends and family members know what your study hours are so they can give you some breathing space while you prepare for your test.

Reading the answers in your study guide is a good way of preparing for the test, but don’t over analyze everything in the book. This practice will cause you more stress, and it’s counterproductive. It won’t help you prepare for the test. Read all of the answers when you take your practice tests, whether you got them right or not. This will help you understand the questions that you missed and reinforce in the information that you got right. Use flash cards and always keep them with you if you don’t have a lot of time to study. You can flip through them when you’re on the bus, riding the subway or while waiting in line at the grocery store.

Don’t freak out about taking the NCLEX. You’ve study hard while attending nursing school, and you know more than you think. You’ll get through your exam just like all the other nurses who came before you. Come to NursingVoices to find support while you prepare for your test. There are nurses waiting to give you advice and cheer you on as you enter the nursing profession.