Top NCLEX Cram Course Tips for Nursing Students

Stephane Blanc
Jul 8
5 min read

Updated: Oct 8

Preparing for the NCLEX can feel overwhelming. As a nursing student, you have spent years studying and gaining hands-on experience. Now, you face the final hurdle before becoming a licensed nurse. The NCLEX exam tests your knowledge and skills, and a cram course can help you focus your study efforts. In this post, we will explore effective tips to make the most of your NCLEX cram course.

Understand the NCLEX Format

Before diving into study tips, it is crucial to understand the format of the NCLEX exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions, which can include:

Select all that apply questions
Fill-in-the-blank questions
Ordered response questions

Familiarizing yourself with these formats will help you feel more comfortable on exam day.

Choose the Right Cram Course

Not all cram courses are created equal. When selecting a course, consider the following:

Reputation: Look for reviews and testimonials from past students.
Content: Ensure the course covers all the essential topics.
Format: Decide if you prefer in-person classes or online sessions.

Choosing the right course can make a significant difference in your preparation.

Create a Study Schedule

Time management is key when preparing for the NCLEX. A well-structured study schedule can help you stay organized. Here are some tips for creating an effective schedule:

Set specific goals: Break down your study material into manageable sections.
Allocate time: Dedicate specific hours each day to study.
Include breaks: Schedule short breaks to avoid burnout.

By following a study schedule, you can ensure that you cover all necessary material before the exam.

Focus on High-Yield Topics

During your cram course, focus on high-yield topics that are frequently tested on the NCLEX. Some of these topics include:

Pharmacology: Understand common medications and their side effects.
Fundamentals of nursing: Review basic nursing concepts and skills.
Patient safety: Familiarize yourself with safety protocols and procedures.

By concentrating on these areas, you can maximize your study time and improve your chances of success.

Practice with NCLEX-Style Questions

One of the best ways to prepare for the NCLEX is to practice with NCLEX-style questions. This will help you become familiar with the question format and improve your critical thinking skills. Here are some tips for effective practice:

Use question banks: Invest in a reputable question bank that offers a variety of questions.
Simulate exam conditions: Take practice tests under timed conditions to mimic the actual exam experience.
Review your answers: After completing practice questions, review both correct and incorrect answers to understand your reasoning.

Regular practice will build your confidence and help you identify areas that need improvement.

Join Study Groups

Studying with peers can enhance your learning experience. Joining a study group allows you to share knowledge and resources. Here are some benefits of studying in a group:

Different perspectives: Group members may have different insights on complex topics.
Accountability: Studying with others can keep you motivated and on track.
Support: Sharing experiences and challenges can reduce stress.

Consider forming a study group with classmates or joining an online community of nursing students.

Utilize Resources

In addition to your cram course, there are many resources available to help you prepare for the NCLEX. Some valuable resources include:

Textbooks: Review your nursing textbooks for in-depth information.
Online videos: Watch educational videos that explain complex concepts.
Mobile apps: Use NCLEX review apps for on-the-go studying.

By utilizing a variety of resources, you can reinforce your understanding of key concepts.

Take Care of Yourself

Amidst all the studying, do not forget to take care of yourself. Your physical and mental well-being is essential for effective studying. Here are some self-care tips:

Get enough sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night to stay alert and focused.
Eat healthy: Fuel your body with nutritious foods to maintain energy levels.
Exercise: Incorporate physical activity into your routine to reduce stress.

Taking care of yourself will help you stay sharp and ready for the exam.

Stay Positive and Confident

As the exam date approaches, it is normal to feel anxious. However, maintaining a positive mindset can make a significant difference. Here are some strategies to boost your confidence:

Visualize success: Picture yourself passing the exam and achieving your goals.
Affirmations: Use positive affirmations to reinforce your belief in your abilities.
Stay focused: Concentrate on your preparation rather than worrying about the outcome.

A positive attitude can help you approach the exam with confidence.

Review Test-Taking Strategies

In addition to content knowledge, effective test-taking strategies can improve your performance on the NCLEX. Here are some strategies to consider:

Read questions carefully: Pay attention to keywords and phrases in each question.
Eliminate wrong answers: Narrow down your choices to increase your chances of selecting the correct answer.
Manage your time: Keep an eye on the clock to ensure you have enough time to complete the exam.

By employing these strategies, you can approach the exam with a clear plan.

Mock Exams

Taking mock exams is an excellent way to prepare for the NCLEX. Mock exams simulate the actual testing environment and help you gauge your readiness. Here are some tips for effective mock exams:

Schedule them regularly: Incorporate mock exams into your study schedule to track your progress.
Review results: Analyze your performance to identify strengths and weaknesses.
Adjust your study plan: Use mock exam results to modify your study focus as needed.

Mock exams can provide valuable insights into your readiness for the real exam.

Seek Help When Needed

If you find yourself struggling with certain topics, do not hesitate to seek help. Here are some options for getting assistance:

Instructors: Reach out to your nursing instructors for clarification on difficult concepts.
Tutors: Consider hiring a tutor for personalized support.
Online forums: Join nursing forums to ask questions and share knowledge with others.

Seeking help can provide you with the support you need to succeed.

Celebrate Your Progress

As you prepare for the NCLEX, take time to celebrate your progress. Acknowledging your achievements can boost your motivation. Here are some ways to celebrate:

Set milestones: Reward yourself for reaching study goals.
Share with friends: Talk about your progress with friends and family.
Treat yourself: Enjoy a small treat or activity you love after completing a study session.

Celebrating your progress can help you stay motivated throughout your preparation.

Final Thoughts

Preparing for the NCLEX is a journey that requires dedication and hard work. By following these tips, you can make the most of your cram course and enhance your chances of success. Remember to stay focused, take care of yourself, and maintain a positive attitude. You have come so far in your nursing education, and you are ready to take this final step toward becoming a licensed nurse.