7 NCLEX Study Books That Will Actually Make a Difference in Your Exam Prep

Passing the NCLEX isn’t just another box to check on your nursing journey—it’s the big one. And here’s a little reality check: around 85% of first-time test-takers in the U.S. pass the NCLEX-RN exam, according to the National Council of State Boards of Nursing. But that still leaves 15% who didn’t make the cut.

So, what’s the difference between those who pass and those who don’t? A smart, solid study plan, and—let’s be real—the right NCLEX study book in your hands. With hundreds of books claiming to be “the best,” it’s easy to feel lost. But trust me, not all books are created equal.

Some are heavy on unnecessary details, while others just throw a bunch of practice questions at you with zero explanations. You deserve better, and I’m here to help you find the NCLEX study book that will make this process easier (and maybe even a little less painful).

The Pressure Is Real: Why Your NCLEX Prep Matters

The NCLEX is no ordinary test. Sure, you might have aced your nursing school exams, but this beast is a whole different game. It’s not about memorizing facts or vomiting information onto a piece of paper.

The NCLEX is designed to see how well you can apply what you’ve learned in real-life nursing situations. It’s tricky, no doubt. But hey, with the right book, you can learn how to outsmart it.

Thinking like a nurse—solving problems, setting priorities, and making quick clinical decisions—is facilitated by a quality NCLEX study guide. These books serve as tools to educate you how to approach the questions, not merely a source of information.

Let's start reading the books that are worthwhile if you're prepared to quit worrying and begin making wise preparations.

The Best NCLEX Study Book: What to Look For

You don’t need a book that’s a 900-page textbook filled with jargon you’ll never use. No one has time for that. So, what should you be looking for in a study book?

Let’s break it down:

Ready to check out which NCLEX study books hit all the marks? Let’s do this.

1. Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-RN® Examination

This one’s a beast, but in a good way. Saunders has been a gold standard for NCLEX prep for years, and there’s a reason for that. Everything you want is there, including methods, practice questions, content, and an easy-to-navigate structure. Additionally, it's written logically, which is welcome when you're already under a lot of stress.

Why It's Fantastic:

2. Kaplan’s NCLEX-RN Prep Plus

Kaplan’s NCLEX study book is a masterclass in strategy. If you’re like most nursing students, you probably freak out when you see those “select all that apply” (SATA) questions. Kaplan breaks down how to handle those tricky question types and helps you get into the right mindset for the test.

Why It’s Worth It:

3 . UWorld NCLEX-RN QBank

Okay, let's talk about UWorld. From a technical standpoint, it's not a book, but a complete list of NCLEX study materials would not be adequate without it. The question bank from UWorld is highly respected within the nursing community.

It's difficult, but that's part of its power. You'll do well on the real test if you can handle UWorld's questions.

Why UWorld Is Revolutionary:

4. HESI Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-RN® Examination

HESI is another solid option, especially if you’ve already taken HESI exams in nursing school. This NCLEX study book offers plenty of practice questions and rationales that mirror what you’ll see on the real NCLEX. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a review that won’t bog you down with unnecessary details.

What You’ll Love:

5. Lippincott's Q&A Review for NCLEX-RN

Lippincott's NCLEX study guide is the perfect tool for individuals who are constantly practicing. It’s packed with over 6,000 practice questions, organized by clinical area. This is a great way to drill yourself on the areas where you need the most help.

Why You’ll Want This:

6. Prioritization, Delegation, and Assignment: Practice Exercises for the NCLEX-RN®

This book is a bit different from the others. It focuses on prioritization, a skill that many people find difficult, rather than broad topics. Determining what to do first is the foundation of nursing, and the NCLEX heavily emphasizes this concept.

The Reason It's Essential:

7. NCLEX-RN Exam Cram

Exam Cram is your best buddy if you're pressed for time. It's a time-efficient, straightforward review. You get all the necessary information in an easy-to-digest style, along with a ton of practice questions. Although it's not as thorough as some of the others, it's ideal if you're pressed for time.

Why You’ll Appreciate It:

The Best Way to Utilize Your NCLEX Study Guide

You need to know how to use the greatest NCLEX study guide, not just have it. 

Here's a fast method to ensure you're making the most of your study time:

Conclusion: Which NCLEX Study Book is Right for You?

At the end of the day, the best NCLEX study book is the one that fits your learning style. There is a book out there that will suit your needs, whether you like a lot of practice questions, in-depth material study, or exam techniques. Consistency and following a study schedule are crucial.

You have a very good chance of passing the NCLEX and doing really well on test day if you prepare properly. You've got this! Good luck! Let's start studying now.