Memory Retention for the NCLEX Exam: How to Study Smarter and Remember More

Blog | June 24, 2025 by 1NURSE

Studying for the NCLEX can feel like information overload — thousands of terms, medications, procedures, and clinical concepts to recall under pressure. If you're struggling to retain what you study, you're not alone.

The good news? There are proven techniques that can dramatically improve your memory retention — and tools like the 1NCLEX app make them easy to use.

Here’s how to make what you learn stick — and stay confident come exam day.

Why Memory Retention Matters for NCLEX

Unlike regular school tests, the NCLEX isn’t just about recall — it's about applying knowledge in real clinical scenarios. If you forget key concepts, it could cost you critical points.

The key is to shift from passive studying (reading, highlighting) to active recall and reinforcement — strategies designed to help your brain hold onto information longer.

5 Proven Memory Retention Techniques for NCLEX Success

1. Active Recall

Test yourself before you feel ready.
This is the gold standard of memory retention — instead of re-reading your notes, try to recall concepts without looking.

Try this: Use 1NCLEX flashcards and quiz yourself after each topic.

🔗Try 1NCLEX Flashcards

2. Spaced Repetition

Don’t cram. Instead, review information at increasing intervals (e.g., 1 day, 3 days, 1 week) to push it into long-term memory.

Apps like Anki or study planners can help — or better yet, use apps like 1NCLEX, which let you bookmark and revisit your weak areas regularly.

🔗 Spaced Repetition Science Explained (Medium)

3. Chunking

Break down complex information into manageable “chunks”.
For example: Instead of memorizing every electrolyte imbalance symptom, group them by organ system or severity.

Try this: Use topic-based flashcards or mind maps to organize your notes into visual blocks.

🔗 Mind Mapping Tool for Nurses (Canva)

4. Multisensory Learning

Combine visuals, audio, and practice. The more senses you engage, the stronger your memory link.

Examples:

Watch short videos on disease processes
Speak out loud while reviewing flashcards
Use text-to-speech on 1NCLEX or your device

🔗Enable Speak Screen on iPhone
🔗 Enable Select to Speak on Android

5. Teach What You Know

Explaining a concept to someone else forces you to clarify and simplify — which deepens understanding.

Can’t find a study buddy? Record yourself explaining a concept and play it back.

🔗 Top 10 Study Techniques (Nursing.com)

Bonus: Use the Right Tools for Daily Practice

Apps like1NCLEX are specifically built for efficient learning and memory retention. Here’s why it helps:

✅ Over 4,000 NCLEX-style questions
✅ 1,800+ flashcards designed for recall
✅ Bookmark & revisit tough concepts
✅ Study in short, focused sessions — perfect for spaced repetition
✅ Accessible on mobile — study anytime, anywhere

You don’t need to memorize everything — you just need to retain what matters most and learn to apply it confidently. With the right techniques and tools, you can train your brain to retain more, stress less, and pass the NCLEX with confidence.