Passing the NCLEX PN exam isn’t just some box to check—it’s your gateway to becoming a licensed practical nurse. But here’s the thing: 21% of first-time candidates don’t pass the test on their first try.
That’s almost one in five people hitting a wall. And many of them study hard but use the wrong materials, which leaves them blindsided on test day. You don’t want to be in that group.
This is where having the right NCLEX PN book makes all the difference. With the market flooded with prep guides, it’s easy to waste time on books that miss the mark. Some cram too much information. Others leave out what really matters.
We have put together a selection of the top eight NCLEX PN books for your convenience and satisfaction. Practical activities, actual medical situations, and successful evaluation techniques are some examples of how each participant contributes to the conversations. We'll examine and choose the option that best fits your preferred learning style.
A Comprehensive Study Essential with NCLEX-PN Prep Plus by Kaplan
Kaplan's NCLEX PN book is popular for a specific purpose. It doesn’t just give you the facts—it walks you through how to answer questions like a pro. You’ll learn tricks for handling tricky multiple-choice and "select all that apply" questions without getting tripped up.
Why This Book Stands Out:
This book works great for students who want a mix of test strategies and practice questions. It feels less like cramming and more like training.
Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-PN by Linda Anne Silvestri
This one is a beast. Saunders is the go-to choice if you want complete content coverage. If you’re someone who likes to know every corner of the material, this book lays it all out for you. It’s not just surface-level stuff, either. Saunders breaks things down in a way that makes even the hardest concepts easier to handle.
Key Features:
Saunders is perfect if you like a detailed review and want to cover every inch of the exam blueprint.
NCLEX-PN Flashcard Book by Rebekah Warner: Study on the Go
Sometimes a big textbook feels too heavy—mentally and physically. That’s where Rebekah Warner’s flashcard book comes in. It’s easy to carry, and you can flip through essential topics whenever you get a spare moment.
What Makes It Useful:
It’s an ideal choice for students who like active recall and quick reviews without lugging around a textbook.
Lippincott Review for NCLEX-PN by Barbara Kuhn Timby: Quick Review Without Overload
If you need a no-fluff guide, Lippincott’s review book fits the bill. It skips the drawn-out explanations and gives you straight-to-the-point reviews. You’ll also get loads of practice questions to help solidify what you’ve studied.
Best Features:
This book fits perfectly for anyone who likes clear, direct information and quick practice drills.
Mosby’s Review for NCLEX-PN: A Focus on Clinical Judgment
The NCLEX exam is shifting toward clinical judgment questions, so understanding how to apply your knowledge in real scenarios matters. Mosby’s book prepares you for this by focusing on practical situations you’ll face as a nurse.
Why It’s Different:
If you struggle with questions that require judgment, Mosby’s book gives you the tools to feel confident.
Prioritization, Delegation, and Assignment by Linda LaCharity: Hone Decision-Making Skills
Many students find prioritization and delegation questions challenging. This book drills into those topics, giving you solid practice so you know exactly what to do. It’s like having a cheat code for one of the hardest parts of the NCLEX.
Why It Works:
If prioritization trips you up, this book helps make those questions feel way less stressful.
Exam Cram NCLEX-PN: Perfect for Quick Review Sessions
Exam Cram does exactly what it promises—it crams. It’s not a deep dive into every subject, but it’s amazing for quick reviews. You get summaries, key points, and a boatload of practice questions to keep your brain sharp.
Features to Appreciate:
This is the perfect companion to a more detailed NCLEX PN book when you need fast, targeted study sessions.
Illustrated Study Guide for the NCLEX-PN by JoAnn Zerwekh: Learn Visually
Sometimes your brain needs a break from endless text. That’s where this book shines. JoAnn Zerwekh uses cartoons, visuals, and memory aids to make even tough topics feel manageable.
What You’ll Love:
This book is ideal for individuals who are visual learners or those who want studying to be less of a burden.
Conclusion: Discover the NCLEX PN Book That Best Suits Your Needs
Choosing the correct NCLEX PN study guide can determine if you pass the test on your initial attempt or have to take it again. Kaplan’s manual offers high-quality tactics and hands-on exams.
Saunders thoroughly explores all aspects of each topic. Saunders covers every topic in depth. LaCharity’s book sharpens your prioritization skills. And Zerwekh’s illustrated guide makes everything more fun.
You don’t need every book on this list. Choose the ones that match your learning style and focus on your weak spots. Whether you need deep content, quick reviews, or mobile study options, there’s a book here that fits.
Prep with the right tools, stay focused, and head into that exam ready to crush it. You’ve got everything you need to succeed.