Did you know that about 13% of first-time test takers fail the NCLEX-RN exam? Thatโs a huge number when you consider all the time, money, and effort that goes into nursing school. But guess what? You donโt have to be part of that statistic.
The secret weapon? Having the best book for NCLEX-RN in your hands. Choosing the right one can help you walk into that exam feeling cool, calm, and collected. Letโs face it, acing the NCLEX-RN isnโt just about studying hardโitโs about studying smart. And with the right book, youโre halfway there.
What Makes a Book the "Best" for NCLEX-RN?
Now, not every NCLEX prep book deserves a spot on your desk. Some are way too basic, while others leave you drowning in content overload. So, how do you find the best book for NCLEX-RN? Hereโs what to look for:
The Top 10 Best Books for NCLEX-RN Registered Nurse Exam
You donโt need every book on the market to pass. But choosing wisely could save you hours of frustration. Here are the top 10 books thatโll take your NCLEX-RN prep game to the next level.
1. Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-RN Examination
Saunders is a major force in the NCLEX preparation industry, so let's not fool ourselves. This book is the best resource for a thorough, straightforward review because it contains more than 5,000 practice questions. You won't ever be overwhelmed by the amount of information because it divides everything into manageable chunks.
By the time youโre done with Saunders, youโll feel like youโve already taken the NCLEX.
2. Kaplan NCLEX-RN Prep Plus
If you need a book that teaches you how to outsmart NCLEX questions, Kaplan is where itโs at. Known for its decision tree method, Kaplan helps you work through those tricky โall of the aboveโ or โnone of the aboveโ types of questions. Itโs less about rote memorization and more about thinking criticallyโexactly what you need to pass.
Think of Kaplan as your brainโs personal trainer for NCLEX prep.
3. UWorld NCLEX-RN QBank
Okay, UWorld isnโt your traditional book, but itโs hands down one of the best tools you can use. UWorldโs question bank is legendary among nurses because itโs packed with questions that feel just like the NCLEX. Theyโre challenging, which is exactly what you want.
Even though it isn't a physical book, it is a crucial component of your NCLEX preparation.
4. Princeton Review's Prep for the 2024 NCLEX-RN
Is a little fun necessary while you're overloaded with study materials? It's your Princeton Review book. Learning is made more enjoyable by its conversational and sometimes humorous tone. Don't be fooled by that, though; it covers all the important NCLEX material you require.
Princeton Review gives you that laid-back vibe while still delivering the goods.
5. Lippincott Q&A Review for NCLEX-RN
Looking for more practice questions without all the fluff? Lippincott Q&A Review is what you need. This book comes with a massive 6,000 practice questions that are broken down by topic, so you can focus on where youโre weakest.
If you love grinding out practice questions, this book is perfect for you.
6. Hurst Review NCLEX-RN Review
Letโs face itโsome books are all content, while others are all questions. Hurst Review strikes a great balance. It breaks down key concepts like pathophysiology and pharmacology in a clear, simple way, so you can really get the hang of it.
This oneโs perfect for those who need both content review and strategy.
7. Mosby's All-Inclusive Nursing Review for NCLEX-RN
You need Mosby's if looking at lengthy text blocks causes your brain to shut down. There are a ton of visual aids in this book, such as charts, graphs, and diagrams, that may help you make difficult concepts easier to understand.
If youโre someone who learns best through visuals, Mosbyโs will be your best friend.
8. NCLEX-RN Questions & Answers Made Incredibly Easy
This series is a classic for a reason. NCLEX-RN Q&A Made Incredibly Easy gives you 1,000+ practice questions in a format thatโs designed to be, well, incredibly easy. Itโs great for when youโre on the go or just need a quick study session.
This book does exactly what it saysโmakes the tough stuff easier to swallow.
9. ATI Comprehensive NCLEX-RN Review
No one has time for complicated explanations, and ATI Comprehensive NCLEX-RN Review knows it. Itโs no-nonsense, just the essential content you need to know for the NCLEX, in a format thatโs easy to follow and absorb.
If youโre short on time and need a focused review, ATI is where itโs at.
10. Davisโs Q&A Review for NCLEX-RN
Running out of time before the big day? Davisโs Q&A Review has your back. This book is packed with practice questions, but keeps things short and sweet when it comes to explanations. Itโs perfect for cramming or fine-tuning your knowledge right before the exam.
If youโre the type who likes to cram, Davisโs will be your saving grace.
Make the Best Book for NCLEX-RN Work for You
Alright, now that youโve got a stack of books in front of you, how do you make the most of them?
Hereโs the plan:
The secret to success? Continue to practice and maintain consistency.
In Conclusion, Confidently Ace the NCLEX-RN
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to selecting the finest NCLEX-RN book. In actuality, choosing and adhering to the technique that best suits your learning style is the best course of action. There is something for everyone, regardless of whether you prefer Kaplan's game-changing tactics or Saunders' in-depth analysis.
Just keep in mind how far you've already come. A solid study plan, these books, and a little willpower will make you feel unstoppable on exam day. You can do it!