Understanding the NCLEX: What You Need to Know Before You Start Studying

NCLEX Exam Structure: What’s New with NGN?

The Next Generation NCLEX (NGN) introduces a new focus on clinical judgment through case studies and complex question types. Here's what you need

to know about the exam structure and recent updates:

🖥️ Computer-Adaptive Testing (CAT)

• The exam adapts to your performance—questions get harder or easier based on your answers.
• You must answer at least 85 questions (with a maximum of 150).
• You have 5 hours to complete the test, including breaks.

📚 Content Breakdown (NCLEX Categories Remain the Same!)

The NCLEX still focuses on these major areas:

Safe and Effective Care Environment

Health Promotion and Maintenance

Psychosocial Integrity

Physiological Integrity

However, the way the test asks questions has changed with NGN.

New NCLEX Question Formats: What to Expect in NGN

The biggest change in the Next Generation NCLEX is the use of case studies and new question types to assess your ability to think like a nurse.

📝 What Are NGN Case Studies?

• Case studies present a realistic patient scenario that unfolds over multiple questions.
• You’ll need to interpret labs, vital signs, medical history, and nursing notes to answer correctly.
• Each case study has six interconnected questions, testing how you apply clinical judgment.
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💡 New Question Types in NGN

Extended Multiple Response (More than one correct answer, but not all apply)

Drag-and-Drop (Prioritizing interventions or nursing actions in the correct order)

Highlight Text (Selecting important parts of a patient chart)

Matrix/Grid Questions (Selecting correct options in a table format)

Drop-Down Questions (Choosing the best answer from a menu in a patient case)

These question types mimic real-life nursing decision-making, making the exam more challenging but also more realistic.

How to Prepare for the NCLEX & NGN Case Studies

Now that you understand the new NCLEX format, let’s discuss how to study effectively and build confidence before test day.

📅 1. Create a Study Plan

• Give yourself at least 6-8 weeks to prepare.
• Dedicate specific days to each content area and NGN question practice.
• Include daily NCLEX-style questions and case study reviews.

📖 2. Use NGN-Specific Study Resources

Since NGN is still new, not all prep materials include case studies. Here are some highly recommended study tools:

✅ UWorld – Best for case studies & question banks
✅ Saunders NCLEX Review – Great for content review
✅ Kaplan NCLEX Prep – Strong strategies for test-taking
✅ NCLEX-RN Mastery App – Mobile-friendly flashcards & practice questions

🧠 3. Develop Strong Clinical Judgment Skills

Since NGN is all about decision-making, practice:

• Interpreting patient data before jumping to answers.
• Prioritization strategies (Who do you see first? What’s the most urgent intervention?)
• Thinking step-by-step through a patient’s case (assess → diagnose → plan → intervene → evaluate).

🖥 4. Simulate Exam Conditions

• Take timed practice exams to get used to the format.
• Practice full-length NGN case studies to improve clinical reasoning.
• Get comfortable with computer-based questions to reduce test-day anxiety.

😌 5. Manage Stress & Stay Consistent

• Don't cram—stick to a schedule.
• Take breaks and get enough sleep.
• Use relaxation techniques like deep breathing before practice tests.

Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This!

The NCLEX may seem overwhelming, especially with the new NGN format, but with the right preparation, you can pass with confidence. Focus on understanding how to think through patient scenarios, practice the new question types, and use a structured study plan to stay on track.

📌 I'll be posting NCLEX prep strategies, study tips, and pharmacology breakdowns twice a week—so be sure to bookmark this blog and check back regularly for new posts!

🚀 Stay focused, stay confident, and remember—you are one step closer to becoming a licensed nurse!