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A nursing career offers high earning potential, strong job security, and a deep sense of purpose. While some entry-level nursing positions only require an associate degree, employers increasingly prefer nurses with a bachelor’s degree.ÌýThat’sÌýwhy so many students pursue aÌýBachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)Ìýto expand their career options and prepare for long-term success in the field.Ìý

A BSN is a worthwhile investment that can open doors to advancement opportunities and higher earning potential. Because nursing school combines in-depth coursework, skills practice, and clinical hours, many students need a schedule that can adapt around work and family responsibilities. Online nursing programs that offer flexible or accelerated pathways can help support this balance by allowing students to create study schedules thatÌýfit aroundÌýtheir commitments. However, online, self-paced learning also requires students to stay organized and manage their time effectively.Ìý

Strong study habits are essential for success as a nursing student, regardless of the degree program's format. Continue reading to explore practical study techniques that can help you stay on track, manage your workload, and develop the real-world skills you need for day-to-day nursing practice.Ìý

Understand Your Learning StyleÌý

Everyone learns inÌýdifferent ways. When you use methods that match your preferredÌýlearning style, information is easier to understand and remember. Knowing how your brain processes information is especially crucial in nursingÌýschool, where new material is introduced quickly, and concepts build on one another.Ìý

Learning styles are often grouped into four categories: visual, auditory, reading and writing, and kinesthetic (VARK). Visual learners tend to understand information best through diagrams, charts, and images. Auditory learnersÌýretainÌýmore by listening to lectures or talking through concepts with others. Reading and writing learners often prefer textbooks and written notes. Kinesthetic learners usually learn best through hands-on practice, such as during simulations, learning labs, or clinical experiences.Ìý

Understanding which of these styles works best for you can help you make the most of your study time and avoid feelings of stress and burnout. For example, if you are a visual learner, you might find that creating concept maps or using flashcards is more effective than just reading the material. Consider takingÌýaÌýÌýearly in your program to tailor your approach to how you learn best.

Form a Study Group

ÌýSmall group learning is an effective method for undergraduate nursing students toÌýacquireÌýnew skills and better understand theoretical concepts. Group learning can also make nursingÌýschoolÌýfeel lessÌýisolating, especially during challenging courses. Studies show thatÌýÌýcan enhance students' peer support systems and improve their academic performance.ÌýIf you form a study group,Ìýit'sÌýgenerally bestÌýto limit it to three to five members.ÌýThis size allows for meaningful interactions where everyone can contribute without the dynamics becoming overwhelming.Ìý

Before the first study session,ÌýestablishÌýthe expectationsÌýregardingÌýtime management, group discussion, and the specific topics to be covered. Whether the study group meets virtually or in person, it is crucial for each member to fully commit to the group's goals and arrive at the meeting prepared and ready for work.Ìý

H2: Consider Studying with a Tutor

Tutors can offer one-on-one support to help students improve their study techniques, gain clarityÌýregardingÌýdifficult subjects, and prepare for exams. Many nursing schools offer support services, such as academic coaching, skill-improvement resources, and tutoring. At WGU, students can access support through theÌý. WGU also offersÌýcohorts, or small group sessions led by Course Instructors. These live sessions allow students to ask questions, review key material, and test their understanding through discussion and activities.ÌýÌý

Ask for Help

The workload in nursingÌýschoolÌýcan be significant. Nursing students are expected to master complex material while juggling clinical requirements, exams, and personal responsibilities.ÌýThis is whyÌýit’sÌýso important for students to reach out and ask for help when needed.ÌýAlthough it can be intimidating to take that first step, there is no shame in seeking help.ÌýInstructors genuinely want to see you succeed and are available to meet with you, discuss your questions or concerns, and offer practical advice.Ìý

If you are attending a traditional in-person nursing school, instructors typically hold office hours where you can meet to discuss any questions or concerns you may have. For those in online programs,Ìýinstructors can be reached via email, phone calls, or video calls. WGU students are paired with a Program Mentor whoÌýassistsÌýthem with course enrollment, scheduling, time management, and goal setting. Additionally, students can schedule appointments with librarians for help with research and resource identification. WGU also providesÌýStudent Wellbeing Services, which include access to counseling and mental health resources. These services are designed to support students both academically and personally throughout their programs.

Take Regular BreaksÌý

Studying has limits, and even the most dedicated students need a break from time to time.ÌýConsider developing a schedule for when you’ll study, complete assignments, and prepare for exams thatÌýtakesÌýinto account your personal and professional responsibilities.ÌýIt'sÌýalso important to remember that most peopleÌýcan'tÌýstay focusedÌýforÌýlong stretches without a drop in attention. Extended study sessions often lead to mental fatigue and burnout. EffectiveÌýtime management strategiesÌýcan support this balance. One example is the Pomodoro Method, which uses short, timed study intervals followed by brief breaks to help you reset and refocus.Ìý

Breaks also give you time toÌýrecharge your mind. Stepping away from coursework to walk, stretch, or engage in a creative activity like painting or writing can improve concentration afterward. Additionally, making sure you get enough rest each night,ÌýmaintainingÌýa balanced diet, and staying well-hydrated are all crucial factors that contribute to sustaining your energy levels and sharpening your focus. By prioritizing your mental well-being, you create a healthier and more effective study environment,Ìýultimately leadingÌýto improved academic performance.

Use Your Course Syllabus and Study GuidesÌý

Your course syllabus and study guides outline what you are expected to learn and when key milestones occur.ÌýReviewing these materials at the start of a course can help youÌýplan aheadÌýand avoid surprises.ÌýAdditionally, consider making a master calendar that lists your exam dates, clinical rotations, and major deadlines. Use the study guides and outlines provided by course instructors to prioritize topics and prepare for tests and assignments.Ìý

If you are enrolled in a competency-based degree program, you may have more control over whenÌýyouÌýcomplete tests and assignments. Even with this flexibility, setting goals and timelines is important. Creating weekly goals and tracking progress can reduce procrastination and help you stay consistent while balancing other responsibilities.ÌýÌý

Study a Little Every DayÌý

Nursing education coursework can be rigorous, and consistent review helps you understand concepts more fully and improve long-term retention. Techniques such as spaced practice and active recall are particularly effective with daily study. Spaced practice, also known as distributed practice, involves organizing your study time so that you review material at intervals rather than cramming all at once. This method allows your brain to process andÌýconsolidateÌýthe informationÌýmore effectively.Ìý

Active recall is a powerful technique that involves actively testing yourself on the materialÌýyou’veÌýstudied instead of passively rereading notes or textbooks. This can be done through practice quizzes, flashcards, or teaching the material to someone else. Active recall strengthens your memory pathways and helps youÌýidentifyÌýareas that may need further review. As you progress throughÌývarious topics, regularly revisiting material will help reinforce your understanding and prepare you for both examinations and real-world application in nursing practice.Ìý

Master NCLEX-Style Questions from Day OneÌý

The NCLEX-RN, orÌýNational Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses, is the national licensing exam you must pass to become a registered nurse. Regular practice with NCLEX-style questions helps youÌýidentifyÌýareas where your understanding may be lacking while also familiarizing you with how nursing concepts are tested. These questions encourage you to think critically and build problem-solving skills that are essential in real-world nursingÌýpractice. Additionally, these questions closely mirror the types of questions commonly found on nursing school exams, making them a valuable tool for test preparation.

You can access NCLEX-style questions through a variety of resources, including nursing textbooks, course materials, and online question banks designed specifically for NCLEX preparation. Many nursing programs also incorporate these questions into practice quizzes, exams, and assignments.Ìý

Use Active Learning Techniques, Not Just ReadingÌý

Reading notes or course material is a common way to study, butÌýit'sÌýnot always the most effective approach. This is a type of passive learning that involves absorbing information without actively engaging with it. In contrast, active learning requires students to work withÌýthe informationÌýin a more deliberate way by recalling, applying, or explaining it. This technique isÌýgenerally moreÌýeffective than passive learning because itÌýfacilitatesÌýdeeper understanding and strengthens memory.Ìý

Active learning techniques can take many forms. One way to actively engage with course material is to summarize information in your own words after reading material or watching a lecture.ÌýThis process helps reinforce key concepts and makes it easier to identify areas that need more review.ÌýSimulations, skills labs, and other practice activities further support active learning by connecting coursework to hands-on application. You can also create concept maps or charts to help organize information and show how topics relate across courses.Ìý

Reward Progress Toward Your GoalsÌý

Setting goals is crucial to success in nursingÌýschool. As youÌýestablishÌýyour goals, ensureÌýthey’reÌýspecific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART goals). For example, you might set a goal to complete 20 practice questions two times a week for six weeks.Ìý

Once you reach a goal, reward yourself for your hard work and dedication. RewardsÌýdon’tÌýhave to be elaborate to be effective. Something as simple as buying a new outfit, going out to dinner, or enjoying a favorite TV show can reinforce positive habits and strengthen your motivation.Ìý

Start Test Prep Early to Avoid Cramming

Nothing feels worse than waking up the day of an exam knowing youÌýcould’veÌýbeen more prepared. Procrastination is a common but avoidable pitfall in nursingÌýschool. Avoid last-minute cramming and stress byÌýplanning aheadÌýand giving yourself ample time to learn the course material. Consider creating a personal test-preparation schedule to break studying into manageable steps and ensure it is focused and intentional. A simple timeline might include the following:Ìý

• One month before the test: Review any study guides or outlines to find out the scope of the test and the competencies that will be evaluated.ÌýNote areas thatÌýyou’reÌýless familiar with.ÌýÌý

• Two to threeÌýweeks before the test: Begin a focused review of priority topics. Organize your notes, study guides, and reference materials so you can easilyÌýlocateÌýimportant informationÌýduring review sessions.Ìý

• One week before the test: Complete practice questions and self-test using flashcards or quizzes.ÌýConsider attending a tutoring session or meeting with your Course Instructor to get extra help or guidance.

• Two to threeÌýdays before the test: ReviewÌýall ofÌýyour notes and study material.ÌýSpend extra time on the skills and subjects you find most challenging.Ìý

• Day before the test: Briefly review study material, but primarily focus on getting enough rest, eating nutritious food, and preparing mentally for the exam.Ìý

OptimizeÌýYour Study SpaceÌý

YourÌýstudy environmentÌýcan significantly influence your concentration and ability toÌýretainÌýwhatÌýyou’veÌýlearned throughout your nursing education.ÌýEstablish a comfortable, private space with minimal distractions, and make a habit of studying there.ÌýThis approach will help youÌýestablishÌýa mental connection between that space and focused work. Consider the following tips for making your study space work for you:

• Minimize distractions: If possible, move your cell phone to a different area soÌýyou’reÌýnot distracted by notifications or tempted to scroll on social media. Close any unrelated tabs in your browser or consider using a website blocker if you struggle to stay on task while studying.ÌýÌý

• Ensure proper lighting: Good lighting reduces eye strain during long study periods and helps you feel more awake.Ìý

• Keep materials organized: Put your textbooks, notes, papers, devices, water bottle, and other materials within easyÌýreachÌýso youÌýdon’tÌýhave to get up to find things.ÌýÌý

• Get comfortable: Use a comfortable chair and ensure your desk is at the right height to prevent discomfort during extended study periods.

• Reduce noise: IfÌýyou’reÌýunable to find a quiet environment, consider using earplugs or white noise to help block out background noise and improve concentration.Ìý

Start Your Academic Journey With WGU

Earning your BSN takes commitment, but youÌýdon’tÌýhave to figure it out alone. With proven study strategies and the right support, you can thrive in nursing school and feel confident preparing for the NCLEX-RN.

WhetherÌýyou’reÌýan RN seeking career advancement or starting nursing school for the first time, WGU makes it possible to earn an accredited healthcare degree without putting your life on hold. OurÌýB.S. in Nursing (Prelicensure)Ìýdegree program is designed for individuals who are new to nursing and want to earn a bachelor’s degree while preparing forÌýinitialÌýlicensure. OurÌýB.S. in Nursing (RN to BSN)Ìýprogram provides an academic pathway for current nurses who want toÌýbuild onÌýtheirÌýexpertiseÌýand open doors to new opportunities. Both BSN degree programs can help you expand your clinical knowledge, strengthen your credibility, and position yourself for long-term success in nursing. Take the next step by speaking to anÌýEnrollmentÌýCounselor today.Ìý