Note the organization and structure of the test. The NCLEX-RN is a multiple choice exam. Candidates are asked a series of questions they must answer. The test is given at testing centers throughout the year. Nurses sit down at a computer. The computer system starts off with a series of questions that have been judged of medium difficulty. As you answer questions correctly, you will be given harder questions. If you get questions wrong, you will be asked easier questions. This process continues until the computer system judges whether you have passed or failed. All NCLEX-RN test takers must answer at least 75 questions correctly. If you have difficulties, you may be asked to answer as many as 265 questions before a determination is made.
Investigate the material covered on the exam. Students are tested on fourteen areas of knowledge. All subjects covered are solely related to nursing. Make sure that you understand concepts such as reduction of risk potential, basic care and comfort, safety and infection control and prevention and early detection of disease.
Review your nursing notes and textbooks. Your classes should have taught you the subjects on the exam. Read any notes you made during class time. See if there are any concepts that still remain unclear to you. If you are still unable to understand the material in question, contact a professor. The professor may be available to clarify matters. Read relevant sections of textbooks that you still have. If you are missing some books or have sold them, your school library may have copies on file for you to read again.
Allow yourself enough time to study for the exam. Even if you've just graduated from a nursing program, concepts that you learned two years ago may not be as fresh in your mind. Create a timetable for reviewing specific concepts each day and adhere to it. Allow an additional day or two for overall study of everything that you've learned.
Work with a NCLEX review service. A formal course of classes specifically devoted to the NCLEX can help you pinpoint your strengths and weaknesses. Tutoring services can help you with pacing, offer practice tests and answer any questions you may still have.