studying for NCLEX, how long?

Denham0607 · Jul 16, 2005

I studyed for a solid month for the test. I worked maybe 5 days inbetween, but even then i did at least two hours after work. I took a Kaplan prep class and used Saunders which was great. I studyed about 6 total hours a day spread out and I took my test yesterday and had 75 questions. I felt that studying as much as I did was helpful but maybe overkill. The reason I say that is because you still see stuff that is a complete guess and is in some way new kinds of questions. Look at your study rituals and determine what makes you confident and go from there. -Nicole

jenrninmi, MSN, RN · Jul 16, 2005

I was told by my review instructor to start studying a week before the exam. A lot, not just a little each day for a month. This is what I did. I started studying on a Tuesday afternoon, then studied 5-6 hours a day until I took the exam the following Monday. I passed with 75 questions and really didn't feel it was too difficult. It felt like I was taking another practice test. Good luck to you!

Nurse2B2005 · Jul 16, 2005

I have a while to really worry about this, but I was wondering after graduation how long do you typically study for the NCLEX? I know for my boyfriend and the Bar Exam, after graduation (May 16), he quit both his jobs and studying has been his full-time job until he takes the bar July 26th and 27th. Is studying for the NCLEX similiar? Do people still work? Do you study 6-10 hours a day (like my boyfriend?)? How is everyone studying? Thanks!

I really think it depends on every individual. I studied utilizing Saunders, Kaplan, Hurst, etc. My goal was to answer at least 5000 questions before I sat for the boards. Everyone is different though. Some posters on this board recommend doing at least 3000 questions. I did roughly 6 hours a day on some days, and less on others. I had a calendar by month, and everyday I wrote on there what I was going to review to keep me focused.

nursepotter05, RN · Jul 16, 2005

I used Saunders, Kaplan Q bank, and Hurst. I did over 1000 questions, probably closer to 2000 questions. I took an assessment through ATI which I paid for myself to see if it said the same thing the one through ERI said that I took in school. I jsut studied a little almost everyday. I passed with 75 questions.