Is it possible to study too much for NCLEX?

does anyone really believe that more always equals better? for some things, this adage certainly applies, but only to a point. exercise is good, but too much or too often can lead to injury. we need food to sustain us, but too much is not healthy.

one expert reports that people who overdose on choices or information (which is far too easy to do in the google, twitter and facebook age!) can suffer from a type "info-paralysis," where the information center of the brain goes into overload. the resulting anxiety and frustration can cause them to make more mistakes.

well, i think this holds true for nclex preparation. i've read discussion threads where many nclex candidates talk about the dizzying array of study options and products available. some of you say that you study any and every resource you can get your hands on. one person on the ncsbn learning extension wrote about, "...studying/preparing for my nclex for almost half a year now, 8 hours per day"! and even though you feel as if you are as well prepared as possible for nclex, many of you also write that when you, "...sit down to take state boards [you] get stupid."

i'm sure you will be relieved to know that this is not an attack of "stupidity" but is, instead, a symptom that you may actually be suffering from information fatigue or info-paralysis.

so how can you better manage the large amount of information you need to know/remember for your nclex? here's a short list of questions to ask yourself in order to prevent info-paralysis...

- what do i want to learn? write down the topics you want to focus on for each time you prepare to study.

- how many hours per week will i study? set a reasonable goal, and then "chunk" your studying to focus on what you really need to know. be careful not to endlessly review facts and concepts you already know.

- do i need a break? the human mind learns by connecting new ideas and information with existing memories and experience. incorporate study pauses to close your eyes and daydream or meditate...and don't forget to get a good night's rest.

- who can i study with? people are one of your best resources and can help keep you on track while stimulating you with great ideas.

- what are my best study resources?

what are you doing to prevent information fatigue and avoid info-paralysis?