Terrified!

RN403, BSN, RN · Sep 2, 2014

When you say studying all the chapters does this include reading the textbook? Try to skim the readings and only really read the book in depth when you get to a topic you struggle with. Most of the time your instructor will test you on their own lecture material and the book can be used as a supplement when you need further assistance. You will learn what your instructor tests on specifically as you go.

When you get down to two answers remember the nursing process (assess, do ,teach), your ABCs, and maslows. That will help you pick the most correct answer.

Was this your first test? I know it can be disappointing when you don't do so hot, but, dont be too hard on yourself. The first test is tough. Heck, the first semester is tough. You're still learning how to answer NCLEX style questions directed towards RNs. Things will be a little different this time around and a little difficult at first.

work on learning new test taking strategies that will help you if needed. Or try to review the strategies you have utilized before. remember the basics as I mentioned above. Also, remember not to just memorize the content but rather learn how to apply it. You can do this by taking practice questions and working on critical thinking exercises as part of your exam prep. Best wishes.

akulahawkRN, ADN, RN, EMT-P · Sep 2, 2014

First off, I'm guessing you're an LPN or LVN and you're upgrading because you're posting in the forum for that. Why reinvent the wheel? You've done this before and it's basically the same kind of studying. I think the only study tip I can pass on is that you need to look for the concepts behind the material they want you to know. Once you have learned the concepts, the details become a lot easier to learn because you'll see them as natural extensions from those concepts.

Hopefully your school has given you some kind of "Student Learning Objective" information sheet. This can serve as your assignments list, but what it really does is show you pretty explicitly (usually) what they want you to know.

Something else that I usually do is that I tried to read the material about a week early. Then a day or so before the actual materials are presented in class, I will review it again. Then I will make sure that I bring any notetaking materials that I will need for class to the lecture so that I can readily refer to it. During class you don't want to be a bump on a log, you want to actively listen to the lecture because that gives you the best way to truly interact with the material during lecture. A lot of day or so after the lecture, I will typically review the material yet again and then I'll do it again right before an exam. This way I have seen the material at least 3 or 4 times before an exam.

During the exam, remember that the traditional test taking methods to help you get through them won't typically work with an NCLEX style exam. This is because typically you have two correct answers, one of which is more correct. Sometimes the question itself will give you a hint as to which answer is the correct one… By way of keywords and phrases.

EllePN · Sep 2, 2014

As it was your first test, don't be too hard on yourself! The first test is great for learning what to expect the next tests to be like. Use it as a learning opportunity so you'll know how to study smarter the next time around and what kind of questions you'll imagine answering as you're studying. Make use of any study guides provided by proctors/teachers as they indicate the key concepts to study for. If one isn't provided, try making a list of possible test questions you would ask if you were the one making the test, then study for those questions. Here's a couple study tips I've gathered:

1. Remember the 50/10 Rule

Cramming has its uses, but genuinely learning information and gaining knowledge requires a more skillful approach to absorbing your studies. If you find yourself unable to concentrate on long-term studies hours at a time, try the 50/10 method. Study diligently and intently for 50 minutes including required reading and study questions, then reward your brain with a 10 minute break. Breaking your studies into chunks gives your short-term memory a chance to compute into the long-term side as you focus on one area specifically instead of cramming and running everything together into one blur. It also gives your brain a chance to cool down and re-gear for the next chunk of data. Of course this will vary by individual, find the optimal ratio that works best for you or try splitting your work into short goals. "I'll finish this chapter and do 5 study questions and reward myself with a Nutella bite with toast."

2. Where you study matters

Where you study can have an effect on how you study. Studying in the comfort of your own home is great, but it may not be the best place for everyone. The quiet ambiance and removal of personal distractions of a public library can allow you to focus more on what you're studying.

3. How you take notes makes a difference

Want your information to really sink in? Try not typing your notes. Typing your notes can be advantageous because of increased legibility, but writing your notes out by hand leaves a more permanent impression in your mind. When you type you are just pressing keys on a keyboard, but when you write, you are writing out the words and concepts you need to remember. It may take longer to hand-write notes, but the pay-off is a better memory. If you're strapped for time, find a happy balance between writing and typing that works for you.

4.Friends who stay together get passing grades together

When possible, study in a group. Studying in groups can be beneficial. It allows the bouncing of ideas among peers in a stress less environment. We tend to remember what our peers tell us more than what we read, so when we study with our peers, we remember better. Additionally, being in an environment where you have to explain/teach the material to a peer further reinforces your knowledge of the material.

5.Removing interference

If you set aside time for studying, don't leave Facebook open in the background. The notifications can wait. In fact, avoid using any social media when you study because a quick break can turn into hours of lost study time. Your ideal study habitat should be quiet, a place you enjoy, with miniam auditory and visual distractions. Non-verbal relaxing music can make your space more enjoyable without distracting.

6.What time you study can set you up for success

Try studying in the morning. Even if you're tired, your mind is more active in the morning. Studying in the morning allows you to remember things easier. Imagine if you had to go for a run, would you have more energy after waking up, or before you sleep? The mind is no different, so be sure to pick up those books after waking up, not just at night.

safb · Sep 2, 2014

Thanks! Great advice from everyone. Yes, I am a LPN; I am trying not to reinvent the wheel. It has been over 15 years since I have been in a classroom; thus, my study skills are a bit rusty. I hate that I waited do long, but life got in the way, but I am here and plan on passing and graduating when I am suppose to!

Justdoit86 · Sep 2, 2014

You can do this! :) good luck and don't forget to pray!