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Top Tips To Prepare For The Next-Gen NCLEX RN Exam

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Nursing educators and students are scrambling to make sure they are adequately prepared for the upcoming Next Generation NCLEX®, which will be significantly different from the current exam. The Next Generation NCLEX exam will debut on April 1, 2023, according to the NCSBN. 

It is important to know that the NGN is not brand-new. It is an improved version of the existing test made to more accurately assess a student's clinical judgment. The end result is an updated test format with new Next Generation NCLEX item types, modifications to the test's length, and a new scoring system. Here's how to get ready if you're taking the NCLEX exam.

Review Case Studies 

For years, the mainstay of standardized test preparation are study guides. And they'll still be useful to make sure you understand the material completely. To practice evaluating case studies while using the new test question format, it may be more beneficial to use online resources given the interactive nature of the next-generation NCLEX.

Organize and Prepare Early

The NCLEX 2023 should not be used as a "practice test" the first time you take it; instead, your goal should be to pass the test given that it is challenging to make up for a subpar test result. 

Make sure that you prepare early for the exam. Instead of just memorizing information for the sake of the exam, getting a head start gives you time to really understand and learn the subject. Aside from allowing you to read and learn the context of the subject matter on your own time, having this extra time will also enable you to enjoy your study sessions rather than dread them. You won't just feel differently about things; you might even stop dreading revision!

Assess Your Critical Thinking Skills

A critical thinking test measures your capacity to use a variety of logical techniques to assess the information provided and reach a conclusion. The format of the test calls for candidates to evaluate the arguments put forth and the supporting evidence within a short period of time. 

Find some nursing practice tests and take them in a timed environment once you have a good understanding of the skills necessary to be a good critical thinker and pass the critical thinking test. You will become better at reading and analyzing arguments quickly as a result. As a result, you'll be more ready for the actual exam.

Make a Solid Study Plan

The NCLEX-RN exam preparation process is more about how you use your study time than how much time you put into it. Making the most of your test preparation will depend on how well your study plan is organized and includes clear objectives.

Determine the type of study schedule that is most effective for you. Some people prefer to study for brief, intense bursts of time, while others prefer to incorporate study time throughout the day. Create a schedule with designated days or blocks of time for reading materials, taking practice exams, or reviewing your notes based on your preferred learning style.

Get ready for test day.

Spend some time preparing for the day of the exam as your NCLEX-RN appointment draws near. Avoid cramming the night before; if you followed the advice above, you will have already made the effort necessary to pass the exam, and cramming will only make you more anxious. Get plenty of rest so that you can show up to the exam rested and at ease. Bring all necessary documentation to the test on the day it is scheduled. Dress comfortably and pack extra layers in case you get cold. Before the exam, eat something, and bring water and snacks you can stash in your locker in case you need to take a break.

You might be wondering how to start changing your program as April 1, 2023 approaches. As you update your curriculum and incorporate Next Generation NCLEX sample item types in preparation for the upcoming exam changes, getting acquainted with the new text format is a crucial first step.

Keep in mind that the upcoming exam will more accurately assess a candidate's clinical judgment skills. The framework is intended to support the nursing process and other nursing theories/models, not to replace them.

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