It is the last big hurdle you have to go over before you receive those coveted letters behind your name. If you are in nursing school, you know what this is . . .
THE NCLEX!
It feels like yesterday, but years ago, I was sitting right there in my car waiting to go into the testing center to take the NCLEX.
I woke up (honestly I couldn’t even sleep the night before) hours before my alarm in anticipation. It was only about a 30-minute drive, but I drove to the testing center probably a good 2 hours before my actual testing time . . . you know JUST in case something happened.
Walk Into Your Next Nursing School Exam Feeling Prepared
I had put in hours upon hours of studying and preparing for the exam but yet I was still sitting in my car frozen - literally anxious out of my mind!
WHY!!!!
Well, the NCLEX is a high-stakes exam . . . you know, and my test-taking anxiety was getting the best of me.
I knew I needed to pause and remember the test-taking strategies that I learned . . .
Here are 4 strategies that worked for me. Maybe one will help you!
Relaxation techniques:
Prior to the NCLEX, use relaxation techniques to help calm your nerves. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and visualization can help you manage your anxiety levels and reduce stress.
Practicing these techniques before and during the NCLEX could help calm your nerves and improve your focus.
Take practice tests:
Taking practice tests can help you get used to the format of the NCLEX and reduce anxiety levels. NURSING.com has NCLEX-style practice tests (SIMCLEX) that you can take to get a sense of what to expect. Practicing in a test-like environment can also help you manage your time more effectively and feel more confident on exam day.
The more familiar you are with the material and the format of the exam, the less anxious you may feel on test day.
Build self-confidence:
Build self-confidence by focusing on your strengths and reviewing your accomplishments. Remind yourself of all the hard work and preparation you have put in to get to this point. Believe in your ability to succeed and approach the exam with a positive mindset.
Negative self-talk can worsen feelings of anxiety, so it's important to challenge negative thoughts and replace them with positive ones. Before and during the NCLEX, remind yourself of your strengths, accomplishments, and goals. Encourage and motivate yourself with positive affirmations, such as "I am capable and prepared for this exam."
Focus on the present moment:
During the exam, try to focus on the present moment and the task at hand. Avoid thinking about past mistakes or worrying about future outcomes. Instead, focus on each question as it comes and do your best to answer it.
11 Test-Taking Tips for Nursing Students
I hope one or all of these strategies will help you reduce your test-taking anxiety on the NCLEX as it did for me!
Most importantly remember to take care of yourself both physically and mentally, and don't hesitate to seek help if needed.
It is normal to feel anxious before an important exam like the NCLEX. However, if your anxiety is interfering with your ability to study or take the exam, consider seeking support from a mental health professional.
If you enjoyed this blog post, check out more of our blog posts on test-taking tips.
3 Surprisingly Helpful Tips to Overcome Test-Taking Anxiety in Nursing School
Four Things To Find In Nursing School or What's a Filet Mignon
You CAN Do This!
Happy Nursing!