How to Pass the NCLEX on the First Try: A Step-by-Step Study Plan

How to Pass the NCLEX on the First Try: A Step-by-Step Study Plan

The NCLEX is the final hurdle standing between you and your nursing license, and passing it on the first try is every nursing student’s goal. With the right NCLEX study prep, you can walk into test day confident and prepared. Follow this step-by-step plan to maximize your success.

Step 1: Understand the NCLEX Format

Before diving into studying, you need to know how the NCLEX works. The exam uses Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT), meaning the difficulty of each question adjusts based on your previous answers. You can receive 75 to 145 questions, and you’ll need to pass a set competency level to succeed.

📌 NCLEX Tips:

• Expect priority, SATA (select all that apply), delegation, and pharmacology questions.

• Focus on application and critical thinking rather than memorization.

• The test ends when you have either proven competency or reached the maximum question limit.

Step 2: Create a Study Plan

Give yourself at least 4-8 weeks of structured NCLEX study prep. Break your study time into manageable chunks, covering key topics while leaving room for practice questions.

✅ Suggested Study Schedule:

• Weeks 1-2: Focus on weak areas and review nursing fundamentals (med-surg, pharmacology, OB, pediatrics, psych, etc.).

• Weeks 3-4: Take NCLEX-style practice questions daily and review rationales.

• Weeks 5-6: Fine-tune test-taking strategies and work on higher-level questions like delegation and prioritization.

• Final Week: Complete a full-length NCLEX practice test, review mistakes, and relax before test day.

📌 Tip: Use a digital planner like the Nurse Life Digital Planner from The Nurse Sam to track your study sessions and progress!

Step 3: Use the Right NCLEX Study Resources

Don’t waste time searching for random materials—stick to trusted NCLEX study guides and question banks.

📚 Top NCLEX Study Resources:

• NCLEX Arcade – Engaging video-based learning with fun, interactive explanations.

• Ultimate Nursing School Bundle 2.0 – Perfect overview of all nursing school subjects

• Camp Nursing School– Comprehensive content review and study community with videos and test questions

• All Nurse Sam Study Material- Simplifies hard-to-understand topics.

Step 4: Master NCLEX Test-Taking Strategies

Studying content is only half the battle—you also need strong test-taking skills to pass the NCLEX on the first try.

📝 Key NCLEX Tips:

• Always prioritize patient safety (ABC: Airway, Breathing, Circulation).

• Eliminate incorrect answers before choosing the best option.

• Don’t overthink SATA questions—each statement is either completely correct or incorrect.

• Trust your first instinct and avoid changing answers unless you’re sure.

Step 5: Simulate Test Day Conditions

To prepare for test day, mimic the real NCLEX environment: ✅ Take a full-length practice test in a quiet space. ✅ Follow strict timing and avoid distractions. ✅ Review test-taking strategies to stay calm and focused.

Step 6: Take Care of Yourself Before the Exam

Your brain works best when you’re well-rested and fueled properly.

💡 Pre-Exam Tips:

• Get 7-8 hours of sleep the night before.

• Eat a balanced meal before heading to the testing center.

• Arrive early with the required ID and paperwork.

• Take deep breaths and trust your preparation!

Passing the NCLEX on the first try is achievable with a solid study plan, the right resources, and effective test-taking strategies. Stick to your plan, stay confident, and you’ve got this! 🎉

🚀 Ready to crush the NCLEX? Check out The Ultimate Nursing School Bundle 2.0 and The Nurse Sam’s NCLEX Arcade for fun, engaging study tools that make preparing easier! 💊📖