Ah, graduation. It’s a time to sit back, relax, and celebrate all your hard work. Ah, the NCLEX-RN®. Gulp. It’s a time to sit up straight, get serious, and put in all your hard work. Life’s like that, isn’t it? You pass one hurdle and there’s another one staring you in the face. Anyway, many of you will be taking the NCLEX this summer and we’re here to provide some help courtesy of Stressed Out About the NCLEX-RN®.

Want an easy way to pass the NCLEX? The answer is simple. Start studying early. The NCLEX is not a test you can cram for the night before. The first order of business is to develop a study plan:

Find your zone. Test-savvy experts recommend that you designate your study place. Dedicate a particular spot that you will devote solely to studying for the NCLEX. Consider your telephone or cell phone off-limits in this area. You may need to inform family/roommates that you are not to be disturbed when you are in "study heaven."

Stick to a routine. Create a routine and stick to it. If you are best early in the morning, dedicate that time to studying. Set aside one or two hours, three, four, or more days a week, to studying for the NCLEX—allow nothing to interfere. As part of your study plan, rotate topics to prevent boredom and disinterest.

Prioritize. Arrange your work schedule to complement your study time. Do not feel pressured into taking extra shifts that cut into your study schedule. Remember, you are getting ready to change jobs.

Concentrate. Focus! All of us find our mind wanders when we are engaged in a "must do" activity. Pay attention to when your mind is wandering and gently bring yourself back to the here and now. You might even repeat a phrase to yourself when you catch yourself wandering. Something such as "I am an RN" might get your attention back on task.

Visit our Web site for the rest of the article.