Finishing the NLCEX in 75 questions isn’t the norm, despite what new grads might tell you. We know that while the minimum number of questions given on the NCLEX is 75, students end up answering more questions—sometimes even the maximum of 265! Still, at question number 75 of this oh-so-nerve-wracking computerized exam, pretty much every nursing student is holding their breath, PRAYING that the test will finally be over.

 

The NCLEX uses Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT), which is a process that fuses modern measurement theory with technology. NCLEX uses CAT for several reasons. First, it provides an accurate evaluation of the NCLEX candidate’s ability related to nursing, providing a dependable measurement of the candidate’s capabilities. It also reduces the number of “easy” questions that a high-ability candidate receives; once a candidate has proved themselves high-ability, their ability to answer “easy” questions are really of little importance. Conversely, it decreases the number of “difficult” question a candidate with lower abilities receives, which is important because if a test taker feels a question is too hard to even try to answer, they’ll guess, which will not provide an honest representation of their knowledge.

If the computer hasn’t been able to wholly evaluate your ability after 75 questions, you’ll be prompted to answer more. Many nursing students believe that a random number of candidates are selected to answer all 265 questions. This is simply not true; the computer only asks you to answer questions until it has a solid idea of your capability.

It’s completely normal to feel anxious before, during, and after the NCLEX—after all, this test is the culmination of your years of hard work. You’re hoping to get this over with, hoping that you’ll be one of those people finishing the NCLEX in 75 questions. However, try not to let nerves get in your way. You can definitely combat test anxiety. Exercise get regular sleep in the days leading up to the test. Avoid talking to other test takers who, due to their own unpreparedness, may be negative and discouraging. You’ve worked hard, so tell them to take their negativity elsewhere. During the test, settle into a comfortable position, take a deep breath, and take the time to read each question carefully. Get up and use the restroom if you feel yourself starting to anxiously spin out of control. Just moving, taking a few deep breaths, and refocusing yourself can really help work through that panic you might feel when your test shows that 76^th question.

Finishing the NCLEX in 75 questions is something to be proud of, but so is simply passing this rigorous exam. Remember, you can always retake the NCLEX if you fail the first time. This isn’t abnormal and you shouldn’t beat yourself up if this happens to you. However, Crush NCLEX is committed to helping you pass the test and set you up for success.