help! how to succeed in passing the nclex RN exam

TheCommuter, BSN, RN · Mar 19, 2008

Thread has been moved to the NCLEX Discussion forum.

CityKat, BSN, RN · Mar 20, 2008

I had a tough time passing the exam and I can only tell you what I have learned through all of my struggles. Maybe it will work for you.

First of all, I am a complete stress case when it comes to exams. I am the WORST test taker. So with that being said, if I can pass the NCLEX, you can too. Here is what I did.

I did Suzannes test plan this last time and I abided by it as she directed. I only did 100 questions every night for 45 days and before hand, did every single chapter test. If I felt a little uneasy about one of the chapters and I passed the exam with 75%, I still read the chapter and I made index cards of the things I felt unsure about. Ie: lab values, cushing, addisons, hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, etc.

I maintained a positive state of mind. I really went through a downfall when I failed and honestly, I was contemplating law school. lol..

I found that having a belief in myself about having the knowledge and the strength to get through it, REALLY WORKED!! As well as having a strong support system of nursing school mentors and friends and family members.

I stopped studying 2 days prior to the exam. I worked out, ate dinner with friends and laid low. I didn't change anything in my routine, which I felt was important. I did yoga and stretching the night before for 2 hours!! I practiced breathing (I am very anxious, can you tell:)) I drank tension tea and even a glass of red wine.

The day of the test, I made myself a strong cup of tension tea and walked to the testing center, 30 minutes away. I took breaks throughout and I went through the ENTIRE EXAM AGAIN, 6 hours fully and I was the LAST ONE LEFT at the testing center, but I passed:) It's possible!

I think really reading the strategies and rationales is the only way to do it. If you don't understand "why", look it up and figure out why. If you don't know "how", look it up and see how. If you can't remember what something is, go back through and read about it. Really focus and if you're working, do it part time and split up your 100 questions a day with 50 in the am and 50 in the pm. That was the advice Suzanne gave me if I was going to work.

Anyhow, I hope this helps you. Stay positive and focused. You can do it. If you got through nursing school, you can get through the exam. And certainly if I can pass this exam and get through the pain and agony, ANYONE CAN:)

NewGrad2008 · Apr 24, 2008

Hey! I was reading your answer and I was wondering how or where can i get Suzannes test plan ?????? or is it a friend of yours?? i need help too...

CityKat, BSN, RN · Apr 24, 2008

Hey! I was reading your answer and I was wondering how or where can i get Suzannes test plan ?????? or is it a friend of yours?? i need help too...

Hey there, her test plan is in this forum up at the top. It's ONLY part one of her test plan b/c she asks that you follow it fully and without any changing.

Here you go:)

https://allnurses.com/forums/f197/2008-version-suzanne-s-first-tip-272192.html

Iwillpassnclex · Sep 2, 2010

I have taken the exam 8 times and 4 out of the 8 I had 265 questions. My results in each category were near passing. I have taken reveiw courses and test taking strategies. I don't know what else to do i am so stressed out because I am giving it my all and I don't understand what i am doing wrong. Is there anyone out there that can advise me on what to do? I would be thankful for any advise or suggestions.

did u pass yet..im n the same boat,