How to Study for Nursing School

Succeeding in nursing school requires forming the right habits and knowing how to study for nursing school effectively. If it’s been a few years or even longer since you were last in school, it can take some time to get back into the mindset and become accustomed to studying again. Even if you’re a transfer student, you would likely benefit from brushing up on your study habits.

At Harding University, we welcome both transfer students and career switchers to explore our accelerated Bachelor of Science in nursing program, which allows you to earn a nursing degree in as few as 16 months. Before starting the program, you may need to take some prerequisite courses. These classes can help you get back into the habit of studying every day and prepare you for nursing school success.

Before diving into how to study in a nursing program, it’s helpful to learn what makes nursing school challenging, as knowing what to expect can help you prepare. Then, explore some actionable nursing school tips, such as building effective study routines and using active study techniques.

Understanding What Makes Nursing School Challenging

No matter which nursing school or program you attend, you’re likely to find it challenging at times. The curriculum can be difficult, and many students find subjects like pharmacology particularly challenging to master. It can also be difficult to become accustomed to performing nursing skills, such as placing an IV, and some students may be nervous about clinical rotations.

Attending an accelerated BSN program increases the pace and intensity because it eliminates general education requirements and primarily focuses on advanced nursing and science courses. There are also no breaks between semesters. You’ll need to stay on top of the workload.

Despite the difficulties you may face, it’s important to remember that nursing school is intentionally challenging. Know that you won’t be on this journey alone. Leaning on student success resources, dedicated faculty and support from fellow students can help you reach your goals. Knowing how to study in a nursing program can also help you.

Building an Effective Study Routine That Works

There is no universally effective study routine, as every student has a different lifestyle and preferences. One of the top nursing school tips, however, is to create a consistent routine that you follow each day. Once you receive your schedule of classes, labs and clinicals, you can plug that information into your weekly planner. Then, look for blocks of time that you can devote to studying.

Adapt your study routine to suit your needs. If you find it difficult to think clearly first thing in the morning, then you’re probably better off using that time to take care of other needs, such as exercising.

Along with designating blocks of time each day for studying, find ways to sneak in mini study sessions. If you carpool or commute on a bus, for example, you could study while in transit. You could also listen to nursing podcasts or tutorials while doing housework.

Study Techniques That Help Nursing Students Retain Information

There are two main approaches to studying: passive and active. Passive studying involves activities such as rereading material. While this is a common approach, passive studying doesn’t help you retain or process information. You’ll also need to use active study techniques in nursing school, which promote better comprehension and memory retention.

Try the following active study techniques:

• Brain dump: Before reviewing a topic, write down everything you remember about that topic. Then compare your new notes to the material to identify what you’ve missed.
• Active recall: Write down a list of the nursing concepts and terms you’re struggling with. Then, without looking at notes or other materials, try to remember as much as you can about those concepts.
• Teach someone else: Teaching a concept or skill to someone else can help you master it yourself. You can enlist a friend or family member for help. The key is to explain the concept in your own words using simple language.
• Case studies: Look for case studies on the topics you’re studying. Relating concepts to real-life examples can help build comprehension.
• Quiz yourself: Answer practice questions and tests. This helps cement information in your brain and allows you to identify subjects you need to spend more time on.

How to Study in a Nursing Program for Exams and Clinicals

Nursing school tips can also help you prepare for both exams and clinicals. When preparing for exams, it’s important to treat these sessions as a marathon, not a sprint. Start studying for each exam as soon as the date is known. Review the material that you’ll be tested on each day leading up to the test, focusing on key concepts. Don’t forget to use active study techniques.

Along with knowing how to study for nursing school exams, it’s important to know how to take tests effectively. Try not to rush through each question. Instead, read each question slowly, twice if needed, and watch out for words like “best” and “most appropriate.” These words can indicate there is more than one correct answer, requiring you to choose the most appropriate response given the context.

It’s also a good idea to spend some time preparing for clinicals. You won’t necessarily know which patients you’ll care for before your shift, but you can take time to review key concepts associated with the practice area you’re working in, such as pediatrics or mental health. Focus on concepts that you’ve struggled with.

Managing Time, Stress and Burnout While Studying

Pay particular attention to nursing school tips that help you make the most of your study time. You can optimize your time by avoiding distractions. Turn off your phone and, if you’re using physical textbooks and materials, turn off your computer.

If you need to use your computer while studying, consider downloading a browser extension that temporarily blocks access to certain websites, such as social media platforms.

Managing stress is also important to prevent burnout. Take time for self-care, including:

• Connecting with loved ones
• Eating well
• Enjoying hobbies
• Exercising
• Spending time in nature

Use Academic Resources and Know When to Ask for Help

Nursing school is challenging, which is why nursing students often have access to support resources. The best time to become familiar with the resources available at your school is before you need them.

At Harding, you can work one-on-one with your Academic Success Coach throughout your time in the ABSN program. Your coach can help you improve your time management skills and study habits, navigate any personal challenges you’re experiencing and help you prepare for the NCLEX.

Many students wait to ask for help. They might not reach out to a coach until they’re already behind on their coursework, struggling with labs or feeling overwhelmed. It’s best to ask for help before you think you need it. If you’re in danger of falling behind, get help right away instead of waiting for the situation to get worse.

Pursue Nursing Success at Harding University

Harding University invites you to discover the difference exceptional student support can make in nursing school. Since 1975, the Carr College of Nursing has developed nursing students into health care leaders prepared to nurture their patients’ physical, mental and spiritual well-being. We offer a values-based nursing curriculum and personalized support that help our students succeed.

At Harding, you could graduate in as few as 16 months with a quality BSN and be prepared to take the NCLEX. If you have at least 64 non-nursing college credits or a non-nursing bachelor’s degree, contact our admissions counselors to take the first step toward a new career.