Published Jan 4, 2017
RN2b2018
16 Posts
So I've seen many encouraging posts here that give advice/strategies on how some have passed the TEAS but I'm yet to come across a studying schedule.
other than just reading the material and taking practice tests, I'm wondering if some of you have used a study guide schedule that you planned in advance to keep you on track.
Im feeling lost and don't know where to start or how.
FutureNurseInfo
1,093 Posts
From your post it seems you need to work on your study skills as well as organization skills. This is what I would do:
1. Take a pre-test to see which areas I may be lacking.
2. Do an test item analysis. In other words, specify certain test questions that I got wrong to see what specific knowledge I need to master.
3. Mark the date for my next TEAS. Let's say it is 2 months from now. This gives me 8 weeks to study, master my weaknesses and keep my strengths fresh.
4. Buy a planner. Based on how much knowledge I need to master, devote 2-3 days per week to study. Let's say, 2 hours, 3 days a week. Mark the times and days in the planner.
5. As you study, check off times and days spent studying. Take at least a 15 minute break between 2 hour studying.
6. Devote 2-3 hours a week to brush up on the stuff you know; to keep it fresh. Same, mark the times and days in your planner.
7. At least one day before the test, take a break.
I hope it helps. Others may suggest something else.
crazydoglady89
237 Posts
I would also like to suggest embracing how you best study. Personally, I study best in short spurts and for shorter sessions every day. I found that the apps (TEAS Mastery and Pocket Prep) worked perfectly with my lifestyle. I work over 50 hours a week and volunteer, so I'm almost always on the go and a book isn't always practical. Those two apps I shared are awesome and provide great explanations for every single question.
I also found a good study method for me was taking lots and lots of practice tests/questions, which is another reason the apps were awesome. I had access to over a thousand questions between the apps.
I agree with EVERYTHING FutureNurseInfo said (always great advice), especially the planner. If you get into the habit of studying every day (or every other day), it becomes second nature. If you try and cram it all in one day a week, you start to dread that one day. Building up confidence every day with studying builds great momentum.
I always recommend that people buy the ATI practice tests (at LEAST one of them, I bought both A&B) and take one about a week before the test. If you buy both, I would also take one before you start studying, or very early on. The practice tests are similar to the actual test, and if you have test nerves like I do, this is a big help because you almost "know" the exam before you sit down to take it.
A lot of the struggles I had early on with the TEAS wasn't as much the content as it was the format of the questions and just "remembering" how to test again. I've been out of school since '11, so I had to bring myself back up to speed. Best of luck, and just stay consistent!
nerdy student
63 Posts
I have a schedule that I try to stick to and a couple of things I do that have helped me with tests in the past. Flashcards and using the TEAS pocket prep and mastery apps for your phone are highly recommended.
1. I never study right after getting up in the morning. I always let myself eat some lunch/brunch and watch some tv or read.
2. I never study when I am stressed out. If I find myself being overwhelmed and feel like I am stressing out over the test, I walk away. I feel like if I am stressed when I study, I don't retain the information.
3. Take breaks! I wouldn't recommend sitting down for hours on end studying this stuff. There is a lot of information to cover, but taking a small break every 30-45 min will help keep your mind fresh. Get up and walk around the house, step outside or for me I play with my pups :)
4. This sounds weird but don't study late into the night. The best time to study is mid-late afternoon. After a certain time of day your brain is fatigued and you won't retain as much.
5. Don't study right up to bed time. I always give myself at least an hour of "me time" between studying and bed time.
I am going to be taking the TEAS on the 20th of January, and I plan on doing a follow up post after I take it. I hope this helps!
AGN, ASN
34 Posts
What you guys think about ATI teas smartprep study package?. it is $209 comes with tests, guide and tutoring program.
Meg O
1 Post
Have anyone purchase the ATI 6 Smartprep package? If so, is it worth buying? I'm very curious about the online tutorial portion if its any good? Already bought the ATI V form A & B for $88 and it didn't help me much on the actual exam. I'm not sure whether I should spend another $209 for practice exams. Sorry for all these questions. Please advice.