From the Research
The best study guide for the NCLEX is Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-RN Examination, as it offers a comprehensive content review, thousands of practice questions, and detailed rationales for both correct and incorrect answers, aligning with the current NCLEX test plans. This guide covers all major nursing concepts and includes test-taking strategies specifically designed for the NCLEX format. Other excellent options include the Kaplan NCLEX-RN Prep Plus, which features decision-making strategies and question dissection techniques, and the HESI Comprehensive Review, known for its challenging questions that mirror the difficulty of the actual exam. When studying, focus on understanding concepts rather than memorizing facts, practice questions daily, review rationales thoroughly, and simulate test conditions with timed practice exams. Most successful candidates spend 1-3 months in dedicated preparation, studying 2-4 hours daily. The effectiveness of a study guide ultimately depends on your learning style, but Saunders consistently receives high ratings for its comprehensive approach and alignment with current NCLEX test plans, as supported by the principles of preparing for the Next Generation NCLEX through team-based learning, which emphasizes collaborative strategies for structured problem-solving 1.
Some key points to consider when choosing a study guide include:
- Comprehensive content review
- Thousands of practice questions
- Detailed rationales for both correct and incorrect answers
- Alignment with current NCLEX test plans
- Test-taking strategies specifically designed for the NCLEX format
- Decision-making strategies and question dissection techniques
- Challenging questions that mirror the difficulty of the actual exam
It's also important to note that while there are various study guides available, the most recent and highest quality study, such as the one on preparing for the Next Generation NCLEX through team-based learning 1, suggests that a comprehensive and structured approach to studying is key to success on the NCLEX.
In terms of study habits, it's recommended to:
- Focus on understanding concepts rather than memorizing facts
- Practice questions daily
- Review rationales thoroughly
- Simulate test conditions with timed practice exams
- Spend 1-3 months in dedicated preparation, studying 2-4 hours daily
By following these guidelines and using a high-quality study guide like Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-RN Examination, you can increase your chances of success on the NCLEX.