Among the various types of questions on the NCLEX, “Select All That Apply” (SATA) questions are notoriously challenging. This has led many test-takers to wonder: Does the NCLEX give partial credit for SATA questions? And to answer the question, yes, NCLEX will give partial credit where you’ll earn some points every time you select correct answer.
NCLEX multiple response Select All that Apply (SATA) items are scored using the +/- scoring method on the NGN Exam that went live on April 1, 2023. So you can get partial credit. But with proper examination, you don’t need to worry about partial credits. Naxlex can prepare you fully for NCLEX’s success. Our study guides guarantee an A in the exam or 100% money back. Try Naxlex now.
What Are SATA Questions on the NCLEX?
Select All That Apply (SATA) questions are among the most dreaded types of questions on the NCLEX. Unlike typical multiple-choice questions, which require selecting one correct answer, SATA questions ask test-takers to choose multiple correct answers from a list of options. The number of correct responses can range from just two to all the given choices.
SATA questions assess not just knowledge but also clinical judgment. They require you to identify all possible correct answers without any indication of how many there are. This complexity is why SATA questions are known for adding pressure to an already challenging exam. To get partial credit in your NCLEX exam, answer most of the items correctly.
How are SATA questions graded on NCLEX?
You will get points for every correct option and lose points for every wrong option you choose from the list. (The minimum score you can get on a question is zero). So if you select more right options than wrong ones, you will get partial points.
The NCLEX uses a computer-adaptive testing (CAT) model, meaning the difficulty of questions adjusts based on the test-taker’s performance. Each question is analyzed to determine whether the test-taker demonstrates sufficient knowledge in specific areas of nursing practice.
For most NCLEX questions, including single-answer multiple-choice questions, scoring is relatively straightforward: you either select the correct answer or you don’t. There is no middle ground.
However, SATA questions bring more complexity to the scoring process because there are multiple correct answers. So, what happens when a test-taker correctly identifies some but not all of the correct answers?
Does NCLEX Give Partial Credit for SATA?
The short answer is yes. The NCLEX provides partial credit for SATA questions. The new scoring methods evaluate partial knowledge. Currently, the Multiple Response Select all that Apply items only allow for all correct or incorrect scores. With the new polytomous models, candidates can get points for partial understanding.
Practical tips to Succeed in SATA Questions for partial credits
Given that SATA questions are graded on every correct option and lose points for every wrong option you choose from the list, it’s crucial to develop effective strategies to answer more questions correctly. Here are some tips and strategies to help you tackle these challenging questions:
1. Read the question carefully
Take your time to understand what the question is asking entirely. You can only give correct answers once you understand the demands of the question. Look for keywords such as “best,” “most appropriate,” or “initial” that can guide you in selecting the correct responses. It’s crucial to master these keywords since they can make a tremendous difference in your SATA answers.
2. Focus on each option individually
Adequate NCLEX preparation can give you the knowledge you need to evaluate questions appropriately. You need to evaluate each option as a true or false statement. This method can help prevent you from second-guessing yourself or falling into the trap of overthinking. Utilizing this strategy when answering Select All That Apply questions can see you answer more questions correctly.
3. Avoid over-selecting options
Many test-takers are tempted to choose more options than necessary, thinking it increases their chances of selecting the correct answers. However, remember that any incorrect option will result in no credit, so it’s better to choose fewer options with confidence than to guess too many. You can get partial credit for the correct answers you give.
4. Practice SATA questions
The more you practice, the more familiar you will become with the structure and style of SATA questions. Practicing with NCLEX prep resources can help you improve your ability to identify correct answers. Naxlex provides one of the best study guides to prepare for SATA questions. Utilizing this resource can help answer more questions correctly, thus getting higher credits.
Our SATA test preparation platform provides personalized assistance from qualified tutors with years of experience in the test preparation space. So, if you want to approach SATA questions with great confidence, Naxlex is your best companion. Head to our premium packages and subscribe for NCLEX success.
5. Stay Calm and Confident
SATA questions are meant to challenge your critical thinking, but they are not designed to trick you. Approach each question with a calm mindset and trust your nursing knowledge. The good thing is that adequate preparation will give you the calmness and confidence you need before the exam. The trick is to invest sufficient time and resources in SATA question preparation.
Conclusion
The structure of NCLEX comprises different questions. Among the various types of questions on the NCLEX, “Select All That Apply” (SATA) questions are notoriously challenging. This has led many test-takers to wonder: Does the NCLEX give partial credit for SATA questions? And to answer the question, yes, NCLEX will give partial credit where you’ll earn some points every time you select correct answer.
The partial scoring method reflects the exam’s emphasis on knowledge evaluation and accuracy, mirroring the critical thinking skills necessary in nursing practice. While this can make SATA questions challenging, understanding the rationale behind the scoring and applying effective test-taking strategies can help you succeed.
With enough practice and focus, you can confidently approach these questions and perform well on the NCLEX, thus getting the SATA credit based on your correct answers. Naxlex can fully prepare you for NCLEX success. Our study guides guarantee an A in the exam or 100% money back. Try Naxlex now.
