Study tips on passing ANCC AGPCNP

[-swts-]

As I was preparing for my test, I definitely used allnurses to find study tips to pass the test. So I am returning the favor to let you know what worked for me. I took the Fitzgerald live review which is accompanied by online lectures as well and post tests to do after each lecture and 1 comprehensive test at the end. I learned a lot from this! She really breaks down the subject and makes it easy to understand. I also had Leik book which I had used to study for hesi in school which did the trick! It is easy to read and basically tells you what you need to know. Pay attention to the clinical pearls at the end of each section. I didn't read the whole book, but picked and choose where the Fitzgerald workbook was lacking. I also downloaded the Leik test app on my phone for questions- same questions they provided at the end of the book. I wanted it on my phone/iPad. The questions really test your knowledge.

I thought I needed more questions to test myself with and I ordered 15 sets of questions from NPprepreview and it was useless! Please do not waste your money. There was a mixed review for this and I should have listened. Upon ordering, you select which test you're planning to take (AANP vs AANP, FNP vs AGNP, Primary care vs acute care) and it supposedly selects questions which would only apply to your preference. This was not the case! They would ask the most random questions and basic questions, which irritated me even more. I felt like I reported so many questions to their customer service department. It doesn't not reflect your knowledge at all. Waste of money and time. I only took 3 tests out of 15 due to this.

Study time differs for everyone. I took the Fitzgerald live early May, finished going over the lecture in June. Since working nights full time, studying was not consistent. Then 2 weeks prior to the test, I finished the Fitzgerald workbook, looked at the notes from the online lecture. I did questions from the Leik app at least everyday if I wasn't studying, so I felt like I was still being somewhat productive.

I have taken a certification test by ANCC about 4 years ago and so I kinda knew what to expect. The clinical part of the test was pretty reasonable, not hard if you know common diseases, presentation and management. There's a lot of question on research, ethics and cultural competence. The questions are more geared towards application and not just straight up factual questions. I also felt like they are testing you on comprehension of the questions. Remember to read what it's asking you. Keep reading the question and pace yourself. Remember you can do it! Believe in yourself! You've gone through a long, challenging road to obtain MSN/DNP and you've made it this far, so keep going!

[NYC-NP87, MSN, APRN, NP]

Swts,

CONGRATULATIONS!!!! I am set to take my ANCC AGPCNP Exam next week and your recommendations seem to be very good, I am also liking the Liek Book very much! I will let you know how it goes, trying to stay positive.

[badgernurse]

Take the Barkley review. Period.

This man and his associates not only gives you a condensed but thorough review, he also tells you what to key in on, what to study, how to study, what time frame, etc.

I went to the review course, did what he suggested and passed the test. I feel like he knew exactly what would be on the test and simplified it, I bought the CDs and listened to the review every time I was in the car and I took his online tests to see if I was getting closer to being prepared enough.

Sometimes it gets frustrating, confusing and a waste of time when you are pulling information from different sources.

I know I sound like a Barkley salesperson but just ask around. My entire graduating class went to the review as suggested by graduates before us. Good luck!

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

Congrats - moving to student NP so your post will help the current students taking the test