Repeat test takers...does it get harder?

caliotter3 · Mar 21, 2010

I didn't think there was any correlation between one take and the next. Each test is unique. If the computer picks up where you left off from your first try, then this would be common knowledge that would be publicized.

Canggih1 · Mar 21, 2010

Can you show where these statistics are? I wonder if it seems harder because more time has passed since graduation and taking the tests? I don't know.

Pedsnurze · Mar 21, 2010

Well, I just finished testing and it sure seemed harder to me. That could just be me though. The funny thing is I felt more prepared.Did the pearsonvue trick and looks like I'll be taking it again. When I just don't know.

april31099 · Mar 21, 2010

Well, I just finished testing and it sure seemed harder to me. That could just be me though. The funny thing is I felt more prepared.Did the pearsonvue trick and looks like I'll be taking it again. When I just don't know.

Maybe it seemed harder because you were more prepared and you were getting higher level questions throughout your test. You probably came closer to passing this time around. I'm sorry it didn't work out for you this time (although PVT may not be 100% accurate). I wish you well in your future studies and hope you become licensed soon! :)

Canggih1 · Mar 21, 2010

OK. I did look up some of the statistics. I really don't want to set myself up for failure again by having a negative attitude. I personally know three people who passed the second time around and one person who passed on the third time. I don't know of anyone who gave up after failing.

I think if you are better prepared and know where you went wrong the first time and resolved those issues then you can pass. I am planning on taking the test as many times as necessary to pass. Regardless of statistics.

april31099 · Mar 21, 2010

OK. I did look up some of the statistics. I really don't want to set myself up for failure again by having a negative attitude. I personally know three people who passed the second time around and one person who passed on the third time. I don't know of anyone who gave up after failing.
I think if you are better prepared and know where you went wrong the first time and resolved those issues then you can pass. I am planning on taking the test as many times as necessary to pass. Regardless of statistics.

Don't get wrapped up in the statistics. I read that 53% of 2nd time takers pass. Just make up your mind that you are going to be one of those 53%, set up a study plan and stick to it. I've seen several posts that state you have to get "above passing standard" on each category of the test plan, however, the NCSBN website states that the NCLEX is not scored on each individual area, pass/fail is based on your OVERALL performance. The detailed report they send to people who fail is to be used as a study guide so you know your weaknesses. Work on your weakest areas first and refresh yourself so you stay strong in the other areas. The majority of the test comes from physiological integrity, so make sure you are strong in that area. I agree with most that you need to practice TONS of questions, but I also think if you fail you should do a content review. If you don't have the knowledge then how are you going to analyze and apply information to questions? The Exam Cram review book is good for a quick overview. If you need more detailed content then you should do something like Saunder's or Davis. I personally feel that you need a mixture of content and strategy to pass. Don't have a negative attitude!! God brought you this far and He doesn't want to see you fail! :)

Canggih1 · Mar 21, 2010

OH no I'm not having a negative attitude. I did get pretty discouraged looking at that the stats. But I know I can pass. I do need to do more content review so I will be doing Saunders and keep reviewing Kaplan. Someone put up a great study plan that I saved and will be following for this next time.

april31099 · Mar 21, 2010

When do you plan on taking your test? My husband is taking his (2nd time) on the 25th. I wish you well on your next time! You and my hubby both will be part of that 53%!!

Pedsnurze · Mar 21, 2010

Thanks April31099

I got lots of priority & delegation, cohorting of patients , a few drag and drop, few pharm with 2 calculations, endocrine, many SATA, lung and heart sounds, identify organ. So not to have passed still baffles me. I will not be defeated. We will do this!

Leonardo Del Toro, RN · Mar 22, 2010

Thank you...that was a very nice and encouraging thing you said, thank you so much I know you are a very nice person.

Leonardo Del Toro, RN · Mar 22, 2010

The statistics show that if you have to repeat the test your chances diminish. Why is that? Is there any changes on how the test is given for successive tries? Does it get harder every time you try? Your chances should increase because you have prepared more but they don't. Does anyone know the answer for this question?

I guess statistics are just numbers: So 80% of test takers pass the first time. So of the 20% remaining are composed of a different group (a group that is having some kind of problem) so that must reflect or show a new passing rate for this group...I guess that is what that mean. Sorry If it sounded discouraging. In the end we will win this battle.