Took the nclex the 2nd time around, and failed. Anybody have any study tips?

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The first time I studied, I used Kaplan and failed. The second time I studied, I used the NCSBN learning extension and the Exam cram book, but failed. Now Im feeling lost on what to use as study materials. Im determined to pass the test next time! Tips, tricks, or helpful advice towards are all welcome! =).

my daughter just failed the NCLEX for her second time, she used Kaplan both times and did all of th questions and scored well. What other programs are offered that can help her pass this exam? Are there private nurses tutors available, we live in Washington State, any input would be helpful.

I didn't pass the NCLEX, but I'm going to go over the Saunders book and the LaCharity book.

I am still in school...studying, but all of my professors and almost the whole of the graduating class who just passed their NCLEX on the first try swear by Saunders. They have a ton of books and materials to choose from, from huge question books to HUUUGE full-study books even to flashcards. Just keep at it! Don't give up and don't loose hope!

I have also heard of NCLEX review companies online who are expensive (200-300) but guarantee you pass or you get every dime of your money back. Sounds like a lot of money, but maybe its better than all of the stress and $$ than retaking again!

i passed on first attempt, i used la charity, kaplan online classroom, saunders, and exam cram. i studied for about a month straight for several hours (6-8 hours) a day. hang in there, third time is a charm right! good luck.

Thank you all for the encouragement and tips!

Specializes in ER, Med/Surg, LTC.

In order to pass, you need to know your content and know it well. I finally passed on my 3rd attempt a few months ago, so I am speaking from experience. I am going to give you the step by step process to passing this test, and I have actually helped a few people pass here on allnurses.......first thing, do not overwhelm yourself with too many resources. All you need is Hurst Review, she is very good at giving you just what you need to review for the test its all about streamlining, Saunders Comprehensive, so you can read over in detail if needed for more understanding and P/D/A by Linda LaCharity, to take your NCLEX-RN without it, you will be doing yourself a disservice.

Go area by area, until you know it without a DOUBT or HESITATION. After reviewing for example, Endocrine system, then answer questions, only on the Endocrine system until you know it without a DOUBT.......Then you add for instance, Renal system and keep building that way. Eventually, you will begin to see a pattern and you will be better able to answer the questions. By the time you get to test day, you should be answering at least 200+ questions a day and reviewing the rationale, whether you get the question right or wrong.

Keep in mind, the test is only testing basic nursing skills, once you understand that, and do not build it up to be more than it is, you will all do fine.

Try not to put too much pressure on yourself, and think of test day as just another day you are sitting in your room answering questions.....

Good Luck All..........

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