Study Tips Every Nursing Student Should Know About
How to Study Effectively for Nursing Exams (and the NCLEX)
Preparing for nursing exams or the NCLEX can feel overwhelming, but with the right study techniques and a solid game plan, you can set yourself up for success. Today, I'm sharing some of the strategies that helped me succeed in nursing school—strategies that can be applied to any exam.
And as a bonus, I've created a free Study Playbook download with all the tips mentioned here, so you can dive into your studying with the right tools in hand.
My Study Journey in Nursing School
Looking back at my nursing school days, I spent hours studying on the specified quiet floor of libraries and in corners of coffee shops. I'll be honest—some of the material didn’t come naturally to me, especially chemistry and pharmacology. Add in my ADHD (which I wasn’t diagnosed with until later in life), and you can imagine how tough it was to stay focused.
Graduation with my purple cords from Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society
One of the biggest mistakes I made early on was falling into the trap of doing what everyone else was doing. Flashcards and study outlines were all the rage among my peers, but they just didn’t work for me. I needed a study method that engaged multiple senses.
My Study Process: A Sensory Approach
It took me a long time to figure out a study process that worked for me. I finally determined that I had to incorporate multiple senses (auditory, kinesthetic etc) in the process to help with reinforcement and to stay engaged.
Here’s what worked for me, and it might work for you too:
Pre-Lecture Reading & Highlighting
I would read my textbook ahead of time and highlight key points. This gave me a visual understanding of the material before hearing it in class.Notes During Lecture
In class, I’d take notes directly on printed PowerPoint slides. Listening to the professor and writing helped reinforce the material through an auditory and kinesthetic process.Handwritten Study Outlines
After class, I’d hand write my own study guide. Writing things out helped solidify the material in my memory.Self-Explanation
Once I had my study guide, I’d talk through the material out loud. This technique, known as self-explanation, involves explaining concepts to yourself as if you were teaching someone else. It’s a powerful way to test your understanding and improve retention.Practice Tests & Retrieval Practice
I’d quiz myself with practice exams, flashcards, or simply try recalling key points. Retrieval practice (actively recalling information from memory) helps reinforce long-term retention and identifies knowledge gaps.
Study Planning & Time Management
As a nursing student juggling school, work, and personal responsibilities, planning was crucial. Here’s my advice:
Plan Early
As soon as the semester starts, map out your schedule. Include major exams, assignments, and your other life responsibilities—work, family, etc. Color-coding my calendar was a visual cue that helped me see exactly when to focus on studying.
Time Blocking
Set aside specific times each week to study. Physically block off these time slots on your calendar, so you’re not tempted to fill them with other activities.
Manage Other Responsibilities
The week before exams, consider cutting back on work hours, organizing childcare, or getting other tasks out of the way. This allows you to dedicate your time to studying.
Smaller Study Sessions
Studies suggest that shorter study sessions (1-4 hours) are more effective than long marathons. Break up the material into chunks to avoid cognitive fatigue.
Set Boundaries
Let people know when you’re studying so they can support you. Limit distractions, like social media. I often put my phone on Do Not Disturb mode during study sessions to stay focused.
Creating Your Optimal Study Environment
The key to productive study sessions is creating an environment that suits your study style. For me, that meant studying alone and in the morning when I felt most focused. However, I know some students thrive in group study sessions. Find what works best for you.
Flow State: Entering a “flow state” is a magical place where you’re fully immersed in your studies. You’re in the zone, and time flies. To trigger this, set clear goals, minimize distractions, and ensure you’re well-rested and hydrated.
NCLEX Prep: Finding the Right Resources
When preparing for the NCLEX, it’s crucial to use study resources that match your learning style.
A company I recommend is Mometrix, which offers video lessons, virtual flashcards, and practice exams with rationales. This flexible approach caters to visual learners, those who like to memorize, and those who prefer practice tests. I tried Mometrix myself and was impressed by the variety of tools they offer.
Interested?
Checkout the platform and if it's right for you Grab 20% off with code 'CAROLINE20’
Study Methods That Work
Here are some study methods that helped me and could benefit you too:
Spaced Repetition: Review harder concepts multiple times over increasing intervals to strengthen memory.
Peer Learning: Group discussions can help with tricky topics and keep you engaged.
Self-Explanation: Explaining concepts aloud or summarizing them in your own words helps reinforce understanding.
Retrieval Practice: Using flashcards, practice quizzes, or self-testing strengthens neural connections and makes it easier to remember material over time.
Pomodoro Technique: Study in focused bursts of 25 minutes, followed by a 5-minute break. After completing four “Pomodoros,” take a longer break (15-30 minutes). This technique keeps your mind fresh and helps you avoid burnout.
Final Tips for Exam Day
Don’t Get Caught Up in Peer Discussions: Before exams, resist the temptation to chat with peers about what might be on the test. It’s just anxiety-inducing and unhelpful.
Self-Care After the Exam: Once the exam is over, give yourself some space. Take a walk, grab a coffee, or relax with friends. You deserve a break after all the hard work!
Wrap-Up: Your Study Plan for Success
To Recap:
Discover the study techniques that suit your learning style—whether it’s self-explanation, retrieval practice, or peer discussions.
Plan ahead to organize your time and prioritize studying.
Use tools like the Pomodoro technique and retrieval practice to stay efficient.
Lastly, focus on your own journey and don’t get distracted by others.
Remember, finding the study method that works for you is the key. If you're ready to take action, grab your free Study Playbook from the show notes and start implementing these techniques today!
Happy studying (or at least, as happy as it can be)! 😅
-Caroline
PS. Want more? Check out the Life After Nursing School Podcast Episode 2