I failed my first attempt on TEAS

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I just took my teas test for the first time and I failed really bad and I was wondering what are some good studying techniques, I a study book but it obviously didn't help much, I was just wondering could there maybe be any websites or something I could use and how early should I study before the next attempt?

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Hey there. I got a 65% (passing/proficient score) my first try not knowing what to expect. My second try I got an 81% (passing/advanced score)....I took the second test three weeks apart after the first one. I purchased a study book from amazon and read it from cover to cover, word for word! I memorized and practiced as much as I could. I also made flash cards and create mnemonics to help with my memory. As you said, websites do help. Just google practice tests! You can do it!

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Hi, there! I scored well on the TEAS VI this past fall and hope I can be of some assistance!

I recommend using a variety of study tools, that way you can study at home or when you're out and about. For me, I did the following:

  • English & Language Usage: I read the ATI manual and did all of the practice questions/quizzes in the book. I also used a free ATI VI study app (note: this was not the ATI app; it's by a different developer) to get more practice questions. Mometrix also has free lectures that you can search on YouTube, where they help break down concepts you'll want to know.
  • Reading: Same method as above!
  • Math: Again, I utilized the ATI book, but I repeated all of the practice questions multiple times to verify that I got the same answers multiple times. On any sections where I struggled, I googled lessons to help clarify those concepts ( i.e. scatter plots, slope, etc). Here, prepare for word problems, familiarize yourself with formulas (geometey, especially), and practice every concept discussed in the study manual.
  • Science: This was my area of greatest concern, so I actually spent the most time here (literally 80% of my studying). The first thing I did here: research. I used the ATI manual as a guide ONLY; by no means does the manual cover everything you might need to know. I also researched study tips for the science section on the AllNurses forums and YouTube and created a master study guide from their recommendations. I really recommend doing this because A&P is BROAD and you don't want to waste time studying in the wrong areas. To dig into the learning, I listened to/watched a TON of Crash Course videos for Biology and A&P on YouTube to get an entertaining overview of the systems and cell biology. I devoted study time to each chapter of the study manual, downloading more in-depth study guides of everything covered. I used the free TEAS VI study app to identify gaps in my knowledge. Quizlet was also a great resource; there are some useful compilations of science questions there if you search "TEAS VI science questions. "

At the end of the day, it comes down to studying and practicing. Give yourself plenty of time to determine your strengths and weaknesses. Practice your strengths, yes, but really REALLY dig in on your weaknesses. You'll need these skills for Nursing school; now is a good time to hone them!

Good luck and let us know how it goes!

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Specializes in Gyn Onc, ICU, School Nursing, Health Education.

I purchased the package from ATI. I did well enough my first try to get into my program. I also watched all the Crash Course a&p videos, because I took it before taking a&p. If you cannot afford the ATI package, maybe just get the practice tests? They were very helpful!!

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Specializes in Stroke Care - Med/Surg.

I used the Kaplan exam prep book for the TEAS, plus a 6th-grade math workbook to review more basic math I hadn't seen in a while. I also used TEAS practice tests I found for free via Google. Did not use the ATI package; it was too expensive for my budget. You didn't mention if you've taken pre-reqs yet, but if you haven't taken A&P or Chem yet (or if you didn't do very well), the Science section is going to be tough.

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Hi!

First, do NOT give up. There is plenty of time for improvement, and you will get that TEAS score you need! Promise!

I jumped in and took the TEAS about 1 month after finishing AP1&2 and micro, without studying for it and surprisingly pulled a 94. That is not at all meant to be a brag, but a statement of how important it is to take the test right after you finish the material. I would recommend taking your third one as soon as you finish out either taking AP (not so much micro, there wasn't anything on micro) OR after studying AP.

Breaking it down by section:

English-- someone already mentioned the Momentrix material. I'm studying for my second go at the TEAS, and if you just type in "Momentrix English study guide" into google it will bring you to a YouTube video about 1:20:00 long. There is so much information in there, but its quick and a HUGE refresher. I also went along with the people talking in the videos and googled the topics I didn't know and found a middle school/high school lesson and worksheet to go with it, and practiced right after watching the mini lesson from Momentrix. Key things to focus on there would be compound/complex sentences and punctuation.

Reading-- this was seriously the worst if you're not fabulous at reading. I personally am not and this was my worst section. For this, the PocketPrep app (which is free, but of course has the option to buy) has some short passages and big picture questions that get you into the right frame of mind for answering reading questions. I would buy the full version bc its honestly been SO helpful for the reading and english sections! (its about $25, but there is a middle pricepoint too).

Math-- the ATI study manual 6th edition (gray cover) has all you need for the math section, and YouTube what you don't know. I got 100 in this section on my first test, so i'm sorry I am no help with this part.

Science-- This is the section I'm giving all my effort to for round 2. I want that 100 this time! As someone previously mentioned Crash Course and Khan Academy are great resources for this part, but I think even those are slightly too in depth for the scope of the TEAS. I thought this section would be harder than what it was. Breathe thru the science, it's broad but shallow. Since I don't know what classes you've already taken, I wouldn't mind sharing the notes I took over AP1 and 2 with you if that's something you want! I really think that since those classes were fresh, and I took the notes that I did, it really gave an advantage taking the Test.

Overall, I think the ATI manual alone is a waste except for the math. It doesn't tell you what you need to know other than "here, know all of this" but without giving you the "this". Youtube is the best thing ever and the internet has all you need to find information out!

I BELIEVE IN YOU!!!!! also caffeine pills. go get them.

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54 minutes ago, RN695 said:

I BELIEVE IN YOU!!!!! also caffeine pills. go get them.

Best advice ever ??

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@Batsy HAHA I know they're bad for you but you can study so much better!!! Nurses are the WORST patients lolol

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@RNToBe695 would you be able to send me your a&p notes.. it would be greatly appreciated I am having a hard time with the science section of the teas exam

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Specializes in Med Surg/ Pedi, OR.

Mika92

It is better for you to make your own notes. It will help you to understand the content better. Try it .... Flash Cards.

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On 1/15/2019 at 8:00 PM, Pre.Nurse_tobe said:

I purchased a study book from amazon and read it from cover to cove

What book do you recommend? Is that how you studied and got 85%? Just the book? Thanks ?

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On 2/3/2019 at 7:12 PM, RNToBe695 said:

I wouldn't mind sharing the notes I took over AP1 and 2 with you if that's something you want! I really think that since those classes were fresh, and I took the notes that I did, it really gave an advantage taking the Test.

Is there a lot of anatomy on the exam?!?! Ah I took this last semester but good to know it's on the exam, so maybe ill keep reviewing that information. Thanks!

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