12-Week NCLEX Study Guide
Understanding the NCLEX-RN
The NCLEX-RN is a computer-adaptive test (CAT), meaning the exam adjusts to your ability level as you answer questions.
NCLEX-RN Test Format:
75 to 145 questions (minimum of 75, maximum of 145)
Maximum time: 5 hours (includes breaks)
Types of Questions:
Multiple-choice
Select-all-that-apply (SATA)
Fill-in-the-blank calculations
Drag-and-drop ordering
Picture-based questions
Passing Standard:
You must meet a competency level rather than achieving a specific percentage score.
12-Week Balanced NCLEX-RN Study Plan
This study plan is designed for those who prefer a steady, structured approach with time for in-depth review.
Weeks 1-2: Fundamentals of Nursing
Basic Nursing Concepts
Infection Control & Isolation Precautions
Safety & Precautions
50 Daily Practice Questions
Weeks 3-4: Medical-Surgical Nursing
Cardiovascular System
Respiratory System
Neurological Disorders
Endocrine System
50 Daily Practice Questions
Weeks 5-6: Pharmacology & Drug Calculations
Medication Classifications
Side Effects & Adverse Reactions
Dosage Calculations
75 Daily Practice Questions
Weeks 7-8: Maternal-Newborn & Pediatric Nursing
Pregnancy, Labor & Delivery
Postpartum & Newborn Care
Pediatric Growth & Development
Pediatric Nursing Considerations
50 Daily Practice Questions
Weeks 9-10: Mental Health & Psychiatric Nursing
Common Psychiatric Disorders
Therapeutic Communication
Crisis Intervention & De-Escalation Techniques
Substance Abuse & Recovery
50 Daily Practice Questions
Weeks 11-12: Comprehensive Review & Practice Exams
Full-Length NCLEX Practice Tests
Prioritization & Delegation Questions
Management of Care & Leadership
Final Review of High-Yield Topics
100 Daily Practice Questions
Best NCLEX Study Resources
A combination of textbooks, question banks, and mobile apps can help reinforce concepts and improve test performance.
Books & Comprehensive Review Guides
Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-RN – Best for content review
Lippincott Q&A Review for NCLEX-RN – Over 6,000 practice questions
NCLEX-RN Drug Guide: 300 Medications You Need to Know – Best for pharmacology
Prioritization, Delegation, & Assignment by LaCharity – Essential for decision-making questions
Online NCLEX Practice Question Banks
UWorld NCLEX-RN QBank – High-quality rationales and challenging practice questions
Kaplan NCLEX Prep – Good for test-taking strategies and decision trees
Nurse Achieve NCLEX QBank – Offers unlimited computer-adaptive practice exams
Best NCLEX Mobile Apps
Simple Nursing App – Engaging video-based content
NCLEX Mastery App – On-the-go practice questions and flashcards
Picmonic – Visual memory aids for pharmacology
Test-Taking Strategies for NCLEX Success
Master SATA Questions – Treat each option as "True or False" individually.
Prioritization Matters – Use Maslow’s Hierarchy and ABC (Airway, Breathing, Circulation) for decision-making.
Don’t Second Guess – Your first instinct is usually correct.
Use the Elimination Method – Rule out obviously incorrect answers.
Stay Calm & Take Breaks – Utilize the scheduled break time if needed.
Exam Day Tips: What to Expect
Arrive Early – Plan to be at the Pearson VUE testing center at least 30 minutes before your scheduled exam.
Bring Required Documents – Valid ID and Authorization to Test (ATT) email confirmation.
Dress Comfortably – Testing centers have strict rules (no jackets, watches, or electronics).
Pace Yourself – You have 5 hours, so manage your time wisely.
Take Deep Breaths – If you feel stuck, use relaxation techniques.
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