Chapter 1: My NCLEX Journey

Every aspiring nurse must conquer a pivotal computer adaptive test known as the NCLEX. The preparation for this exam is extensive and often feels never-ending. If you're interested in understanding my experience, the resources I utilized, and my personal tips, read on.

Throughout nursing school, I tackled thousands of questions each semester to gear up for this significant licensing exam. The NCLEX is structured as a computer adaptive test, which means that the difficulty of questions adjusts based on your performance. If you answer correctly, the questions become increasingly challenging; if not, they become easier. Remarkably, you could complete the exam in as few as 75 questions if the system deems you competent enough to ensure safe nursing practice.

In my final semester, we participated in a comprehensive 15-week course that revisited all the subjects from our nursing program. This course included simulations and several mini-courses through ATI, comprising multiple quizzes, exams, videos, and remediation tasks. An ATI coach guided us through the process, providing essential support. To advance through each module, we needed to achieve an average grade of 80% or higher. Upon completing all modules, we became eligible for the comprehensive predictor exam, consisting of 180 questions that could take up to five hours. My program stipulated that a score of 95% or above was necessary to pass and receive the green light. Failing to achieve this meant retaking modules, exams, and the comprehensive exam—three attempts were allowed to graduate on time. Successfully passing granted us the green light to schedule our NCLEX exam, which took a few weeks to process.

Subsequently, I had to apply for licensure in my chosen state, a process that took several weeks and incurred significant costs. I highly recommend ensuring that your school submits the necessary documentation and contacting your state board to verify everything is progressing smoothly. Follow all instructions meticulously and read everything carefully. After completing these steps, I began my NCLEX preparation. Unfortunately, delays due to COVID extended this process to roughly 1.5 months just for scheduling my exam.

I dedicated two months to my preparation, gradually reviewing all material until the final weeks leading to my exam. Each day, I tackled about 75 questions and completed one practice adaptive test weekly. Additionally, I studied the Saunders practice book, engaging with end-of-chapter quizzes and the comprehensive practice test. I also utilized Picmonic and ATI for further practice and review. In the last 2.5–3 weeks before the exam, I studied diligently for 4 to 6 hours daily, listening to all of Mark Klimek’s review sessions on Spotify and printing out relevant notes. Each session lasted between 1 to 3 hours, and I reviewed the 93-page guide multiple times.

The day prior to the exam, I refrained from reviewing any notes. Instead, I visited the testing site to familiarize myself with parking and estimate the travel time. Exam appointments were available at either 8 am or 1 pm, and I opted for the afternoon slot to avoid any morning rush and ensure adequate sleep. As someone who tends to feel anxious at night, I wanted to enter the exam well-rested.

On the exam day, I arrived about 30 to 45 minutes early. Before entering the testing area, I had to surrender my phone (turned off), store my belongings, provide fingerprints, undergo a pat-down, have my hair and glasses inspected, get my photo taken, and review a list of rules. Inside, I received noise-canceling headphones and a whiteboard for note-taking. Breaks were allowed at the two and three-hour marks; I chose to take a break after two hours to use the restroom, uncertain about how much longer I would be in the test. Soon after my break, I completed the exam.

Post-exam, I felt a mix of uncertainty and disbelief. The questions were quite different from any previous practice I had done. Mark Klimek’s insights proved invaluable, as many tips he shared resonated with me after the exam (definitely pay attention to them!). A crucial piece of advice is to interpret each question literally—analyze every word and avoid overthinking or making assumptions. Trust your instincts and apply various strategies you've learned.

When I returned home, I tried the Pearson Vue trick but initially did it incorrectly, leading me to believe I had failed. Later that night, I stumbled upon a TikTok that explained the trick, and upon retrying it, I received the reassuring "good pop-up." Two days later, I paid the eight dollars for my quick results—and I PASSED!

Here are the resources that aided my success on the first attempt:

• Mark Klimek Lectures

  Available on Spotify, featuring 12 lectures.

• Saunders Prep Book

• Picmonic

• ATI

I hope this provides valuable insights into my experience. If you're preparing for your NCLEX soon, I wish you the best of luck!

Chapter 2: Helpful Video Resources

The following videos provide additional insights and tips based on my NCLEX experience:

This video details what to expect on exam day, along with tips and advice, featuring Mark K's notes and resources.

In this video, I share my NCLEX experience, what to anticipate, the Pearson Vue trick, and more essential information.