Nursing school is challenging, and for good reason. Nurses are trusted to provide skilled care to patients – juggling critical thinking, compassion and expertise under pressure. For nursing students, acing exams and understanding clinical procedures is not just about passing a class—it’s about preparing to save lives.
If the workload of memorizing medical terminology, pharmacology interactions and patient care techniques feels overwhelming, don’t worry. With the right strategies, you can manage your studies effectively and develop the confidence you need to succeed.
Here are 10 tried-and-true study tips tailored specifically for nursing students and new nurses looking to thrive.
- Prioritize time management
Nursing programs require balancing lectures, clinical rotations and assignments, often all at once. Learning how to manage your time is essential. To help you keep everything in one place, try using a planner. In the planner you can write down deadlines, class schedules, and study goals. Online calendars can help streamline your tasks.
Additionally breaking your day up into blocks can be beneficial. Schedule specific times for studying clinical prep and breaks. You can also use a timer to break your studying into manageable chunks using the Pomodoro Technique.
Most importantly, set realistic goals by focusing on small, achievable milestones each day to avoid burnout. Consistency is key. Staying disciplined with time management helps prevent last-minute cramming and gives you a better grasp of course material.
- Master active reading techniques
Nursing textbooks are no light read. It’s tempting to highlight entire chapters, but active reading is a much more efficient way to absorb information. Instead, summarize as you go. The Feynman Technique is when you explain concepts in simple terms to learn them quickly. Here’s how to do it; after reading a paragraph, write its main points in your own words.
You can also use annotations to jot down critical notes or questions in the margins. The SQ3R (survey, question, read, recite and review) method can also be very helpful. This structured method helps you process information more deeply.
Active reading builds the critical thinking needed to connect theory with real-life patient care scenarios.
- Leverage visual aids
From anatomical diagrams to drug charts, nursing concepts can be complex. Visual aids are excellent tools for simplifying and memorizing material. Use mind maps to break down complicated topics like disease pathophysiology.
Flashcards are another great study method. Online tools can create flashcards to help you review medical terms and drugs quickly. Additionally, the Leitner System allows you to use flashcards to prioritize information that needs more practice.
You can also take advantage of color coding by assigning colors to differentiate body systems or drug classifications for easier recall.
These tactics can make your notes and ideas more digestible, especially for those who are visual learners.
- Form or join study groups
Studying with peers provides fresh perspectives, clarifies doubts and creates accountability. When choosing a study group, look for partners who are equally committed. In your group, discuss scenarios by challenging each other with practical applications of theory to clinical settings. You can also teach each other by explaining topics to someone else, which can also help solidify your own understanding. Being in a study group also allows you to split tasks. In a group, you can divide large chapters or concepts so group members can present summaries to the team.
Collaborating with others also helps build teamwork skills that are vital on the floor of any healthcare setting.
- Use technology wisely
There’s a wealth of nursing-specific learning resources available online. Make use of apps, YouTube videos, simulation software and eBooks to enhance your studies. However, set limits on technology use during study sessions to avoid distractions from social media or unnecessary screen time.
- Practice NCLEX-style questions
Even if you’re far from taking your NCLEX, practicing these types of questions early on helps prepare you for the critical thinking required in nursing exams. Focus on understanding the “why” behind every correct answer. Additionally, use question banks to get used to the format and difficulty of exam content. You can also simulate test conditions by timing yourself and minimizing distractions.
This not only helps with nursing school exams but gives you a head start for licensure success.
- Implement spaced repetition
Cramming may help you pass a pop quiz, but it won’t help for long-term retention. Spaced repetition is a science-backed method for building lasting knowledge. It allows you to review content at closer intervals to boost memory. You can revisit material at different intervals that work for you such as daily, weekly, monthly. You can also prioritize weaker topics allowing you to spend more time on difficult subjects. Lastly, flashcards can also help with this method. Online tools can automate spaced repetition efficiently.
This approach increases the chances that critical nursing knowledge stays sharp, even when juggling multiple subjects.
- Keep a summary sheet
Condense important formulas, values and concepts into one easy-to-reference document. For example, include key points like vital sign ranges, common lab values and drug suffixes. Using mnemonics can be extremely helpful in improving memory. With this method, you can create acronyms or memorable phrases to learn facts faster. Make sure to laminate your summary sheet to keep it safe and handy during clinical rotations or study sessions. Lastly, update the summary sheet regularly by adding new information you encounter throughout your program.
Summary sheets are not only great study aids but can also be lifesavers during fast-paced clinical work.
- Take care of your mental and physical health
Nursing school can feel all-consuming, but neglecting self-care quickly leads to burnout.
Get enough sleep because sleep is crucial for memory consolidation and overall well-being. Eat well and fuel your brain with balanced meals, staying hydrated throughout daily efforts. Exercise regularly; even a quick walk can reduce stress and boost focus. Lean on support by sharing your struggles and victories with friends, family or counselors.
A healthy body and mind make for a sharper, more resilient nursing student.
- Find inspiration in the why
When the workload feels overwhelming, remember why you started your nursing journey. Reflect on the impact you’ll have on patients and their families. Put up photos, quotes or personal goals to keep you motivated.
Keep in mind that every exam passed, every lab mastered and every late-night study session brings you closer to making a difference in someone’s life. Stay focused on that end goal.
Build a strong foundation for your nursing career
Every nursing student’s path is unique, but these study strategies can guide you through the challenges and demands of your education. By managing your time, using the right tools and taking care of your well-being, you’ll gain the knowledge and confidence needed for a successful career.
If you’re looking to kickstart your nursing career, read about our Novice Nurse program, which is designed to provide a year of hands-on learning and support to RNs, LPNs and LVNs with less than one year of experience.
