3rd Time I've taken the NCLEX, shut off around 115 questions

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(I'm writing this because I believe I didn't pass, took it today 6/17/15) So I'll start off by saying I know what part of my problem is with passing, which has been not using the nclex review programs the way their suppose to be used and let myself get too distracted easily. I didn't set aside enough time to study everyday until it became crunch time a few weeks before the exam (which for some I understand is all they need, lucky!) I have used everything from Kaplan, Saunders, and ATI.

Background (All in Boston, MA):

First time I took the NCLEX: I graduated Dec.2012 and waited to take it until July 2013 (big mistake since they made it more difficult April 2013) I didn't complete all review sections of ATI and Saunder but "just wanted to take it already" and of course I FAILED. Computer shut off at 89 questions.

Second Time: Failed with 265 questions! This one I took November 2013. Believe it or not this left me a bit more confident that the next time would be it! To go from the computer shutting off at 89 questions the first time to going all the way to 265, I must have been doing a LITTLE bit better, seeing as the computer didn't make up its mind to fail me earlier on.

Third Time: (Awaiting results, shut off around 115) This I took June 17th, 2015 (2 years of being out of nursing school) I don't even know what to think about it this time.I was absolutely not feeling confident about my answers. Before taking it I just used ATI along with saunders for a more comprehensive review. With ATI you're suppose to wait until your tutor gives you the "green light" to take your nclex, but by the time my test date had arrived I had not got to that part of the program. I took a comprehensive exam the day before the test (I know I should have been relaxing haha) and received a 79%. I went into the NCLECX with mixed emotions, felt like I understood more, but at the same time knew how difficult the questions could be. I swear I felt like hitting the computer screen everytime it gave me a "select all that apply" or "drag and drop." With those questions I felt like it could be the simplest topic (cant discuss details) but leaving you thinking "***" looking at the answer choices.

At this point, if I Failed again, it's definitely going to leave me thinking, "do I even have what it takes to be a nurse?" I don't want to give up but at the same point when is enough enough? I absolutely plan on taking it a fourth time if failed, because this time i'm not letting a year go by between exams, I'm going to give myself a week off from studying and pick up right where I left off.

I'd like to continue using ATI but feel like I've taken every exam they have and at this point would be memorization. Saunders questions are a bit too simple, and Kaplan has good questions but if you need to retest in an area you were weak in its the same questions all over again. What other programs are out there that are successful?

If you made it to this point of my ranting congrats! haha I'm basically asking for advice, telling you my faults so you can hopefully learn from my mistakes (don't wait too long to take it, take it when you feel absolutely confident and are Acing those practice exams, etc) And if you are in a similar situation, at least you know you are not the only one out there!

I'll update with results!:yes:

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Hi, I took the exam yesterday. I felt the same exact way leaving the exam and I was certain I failed because I didn't know alot that was on the exam. But, today I found out I passed. Have faith! Don't give up on your dream and keep pursuing it! You should also check out the review sheet they have on this website!

God Bless.

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Congrats!!!!

Hi, I took the exam yesterday. I felt the same exact way leaving the exam and I was certain I failed because I didn't know alot that was on the exam. But, today I found out I passed. Have faith! Don't give up on your dream and keep pursuing it! You should also check out the review sheet they have on this website!

God Bless.

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Specializes in LTC, Med-surg.

Good luck!!! I hope you pass. It's been too long since you graduated. You need to pass.

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I'd like to update this with some great news, I PASSED!!!I'm still in complete shock!!

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