Did you know that about 13% of first-time test takers fail the NCLEX-RN exam? That’s a huge number when you consider all the time, money, and effort that goes into nursing school. But guess what? You don’t 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. Let’s face it, acing the NCLEX-RN isn’t just about studying hard—it’s about studying smart. And with the right book, you’re 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? Here’s what to look for:
The Top 10 Best Books for NCLEX-RN Registered Nurse Exam
You don’t need every book on the market to pass. But choosing wisely could save you hours of frustration. Here are the top 10 books that’ll 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 you’re done with Saunders, you’ll feel like you’ve 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 it’s at. Known for its decision tree method, Kaplan helps you work through those tricky “all of the above” or “none of the above” types of questions. It’s less about rote memorization and more about thinking critically—exactly what you need to pass.
Think of Kaplan as your brain’s personal trainer for NCLEX prep.
3. UWorld NCLEX-RN QBank
Okay, UWorld isn’t your traditional book, but it’s hands down one of the best tools you can use. UWorld’s question bank is legendary among nurses because it’s packed with questions that feel just like the NCLEX. They’re 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 you’re weakest.
If you love grinding out practice questions, this book is perfect for you.
6. Hurst Review NCLEX-RN Review
Let’s face it—some 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 one’s 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 you’re someone who learns best through visuals, Mosby’s 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 that’s designed to be, well, incredibly easy. It’s great for when you’re on the go or just need a quick study session.
This book does exactly what it says—makes 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. It’s no-nonsense, just the essential content you need to know for the NCLEX, in a format that’s easy to follow and absorb.
If you’re short on time and need a focused review, ATI is where it’s at.
10. Davis’s Q&A Review for NCLEX-RN
Running out of time before the big day? Davis’s Q&A Review has your back. This book is packed with practice questions, but keeps things short and sweet when it comes to explanations. It’s perfect for cramming or fine-tuning your knowledge right before the exam.
If you’re the type who likes to cram, Davis’s will be your saving grace.
Make the Best Book for NCLEX-RN Work for You
Alright, now that you’ve got a stack of books in front of you, how do you make the most of them?
Here’s 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!