Nurses are the backbone of the healthcare industry. They are essential medical professionals whose roles continuously grow to meet the diverse health needs of the world. Since many patients’ lives are in the hands of these professionals, the process of becoming a nurse is always extensive. Apart from attending rigorous programs and gaining clinical experience to become qualified to practice, nurses must also write their NCLEX. In this guide, we will be explaining how many questions are on the NCLEX and essential tips to guarantee success on the exam.
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How Many Questions Are on the NCLEX?
The number of questions on the NCLEX examination will vary depending on how well you answer every question. However, the minimum number of questions is 75 while the maximum number is 145. Moreover, when you answer most of the questions correctly, then you can pass the test after answering only the minimum of 75. Unfortunately, it is also possible to fail the exam after answering only 75 questions.
If the computer is having a hard time determining your ability estimate, then it will continue feeding you questions to help figure it out.
How Many Questions Does One Need To Answer Correctly To Pass The NCLEX Examination?
NCLEX examination is scored based on a pass or fail. Additionally, there is no fixed number of questions that you need to answer correctly to pass the exam. Instead, your performance is measured using the CAT technology that adjusts the level of difficulty of the questions according to your responses. Your final score is determined by the computer algorithm and a passing standard that varies by state.
Types of Questions on NCLEX
The NCLEX assesses a candidate’s ability to think critically and make decisions in various healthcare scenarios. To effectively measure these skills, the exam includes a variety of NCLEX question types:
- Multiple-choice questions: The staple of the exam, requiring candidates to select the best answer from several options.
- Select All That Apply (SATA): These questions require candidates to identify all correct answers from a list of options, challenging their comprehensive knowledge of a topic.
- Hot Spot Questions: Candidates are asked to identify specific areas on a graphic or picture related to clinical practices.
- Ordered Response: These questions require candidates to prioritize actions or steps in a clinical procedure.
- Fill-in-the-Blank Calculations: Particularly for medication dosages, where precise calculations are necessary.
- Drag and Drop: Candidates must move options into a specific order or location to answer the question correctly.
These NCLEX question types are designed to evaluate a candidate’s practical knowledge and ability to apply nursing concepts in real-world settings. Familiarity with these question formats is essential for candidates to navigate the exam confidently.
NCLEX Exam Preparation
The NCLEX exam consists of two types of questions:
- Multiple-choice questions
- Alternate-format questions
Multiple-choice questions are the traditional format, where the test-taker is presented with a stem, followed by four answer choices, one of which is correct.
Alternate-format questions include multiple-response, fill-in-the-blank, and ordered response questions.
How Long Does It Take To Complete NCLEX Examination
The NCLEX exam is a computer-based test that lasts a maximum of 6 hours. Moreover, most test-takers complete the exam in around 4 hours. The time limit includes a tutorial on how to use the computer-based testing platform and two optional breaks.
Can One Take Breaks During the NCLEX Examination?
Yes, exam takers are allowed to take two optional breaks during the NCLEX exam. The breaks are scheduled after you have answered 75 questions and 130 questions, respectively. The break times do not count towards the total exam time limit of 6 hours.
NCLEX Exam Scoring
Exam takers should expect to see 80-150 questions on your NGN exam. There is a large range because the test uses Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT) to administer the exam.
CAT increases the efficiency of the exam because, after each answer, the computer re-estimates the student’s ability based on previous answers. This way, the next question won’t be too hard or too easy to fairly assess each candidate.
Furthermore, the students will have to do a minimum of 80 questions to complete the exam. By the 80th question, the computer can be 95% sure whether most students’ ability is above or well below the standard and will stop giving them questions.
If the candidate does not demonstrate a clear ability or inability by this point, the computer will administer a full-length exam of 150 questions to determine their competency.
If a candidate runs out of time before answering all the questions on the NCLEX, a final ability estimate is used to determine if they have passed or failed.
Essential Tips to Ensure Success on NCLEX Exam
Preparing for the NCLEX exam can be a daunting task, but with the right mindset and preparation, test-takers can increase their chances of success.
Here are some tips for success on the NCLEX exam:
- Start studying early. The NCLEX exam covers a wide range of topics, and it is important to give yourself enough time to prepare thoroughly.
- Create a study plan. Develop a study plan with a learned tutor that includes regular study sessions, practice questions, and mock exams.
- Utilize study resources. There are a variety of study resources available, including review courses, textbooks, and online practice questions.
- Focus on your weak areas. Use practice questions to identify your weak areas and focus your study efforts on improving those areas.
- Practice time management. The NCLEX exam is timed, so it is important to practice time management skills during your study sessions and mock exams.
- Stay calm and confident. It is normal to feel nervous before the exam, but staying calm and confident can help you perform your best.
Elevate Your NCLEX Exam Preparation with Naxlex
Despite there being several limitations to taking the NCLEX examination in person, there are digital study tools that can help improve your preparation and increase your chances of success.
Naxlex offers an efficient and personalized way of mastering the contents of the exam. We offer a personalized study plan, study guides, adaptive exams, Next Generation NCLEX prep, and much more.
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