When it comes to preparing for the NCLEX, the most important thing is finding a study method that works best for your learning style. With so many prep options out there, it can feel overwhelming to choose the right one. Whether you’re just starting out or getting ready to take the test, we’re here to help you navigate the options and find the best fit for you.
In this guide, we’ll take a look at some of the top NCLEX prep programs available today, including big names like Archer, Bootcamp, and Remar. We’ll also introduce you to NursingNotes, a new and innovative platform that’s changing the game for many nursing students. Let’s dive in and explore your options!
But before we jump in, we’ve created a quick and interactive tool to help you find out which NCLEX prep method suits you best. Just answer a few questions, and you’ll get a personalized recommendation that will guide you toward the best choice for your study needs.
You can find the interactive tool below—feel free to share it with others who might find it helpful!
Find the Best NCLEX Prep for You!
Answer a few quick questions, and we’ll recommend the NCLEX prep method that best fits your learning style. We'll also introduce NursingNotes, a revolutionary, music-based tool to enhance your study experience.
1. Archer Review
Overview:
Archer Review is known for its comprehensive question bank and readiness exams. Their platform focuses heavily on practice questions and rationales, allowing students to test their knowledge and gauge their chances of passing the NCLEX.
What it’s good for:
Archer is ideal for students who prefer to focus on answering practice questions and understanding the rationales behind the answers. The question bank is extensive, and the readiness exams help you assess how prepared you are for the NCLEX.
How it compares:
Archer excels at providing a massive question bank and detailed rationales. However, it may lack some of the interactivity and engaging study methods offered by other platforms.
2. Bootcamp NCLEX
Overview:
Bootcamp NCLEX is a great option for students who need a comprehensive, structured study plan at an affordable price. It offers practice questions, video lessons, and customizable study schedules.
What it’s good for:
Bootcamp is perfect for self-disciplined students who like to follow a structured schedule. It’s also great for those on a budget but still want a well-rounded study plan.
How it compares:
While Bootcamp is an affordable and well-rounded option, it might not offer the depth of content or the challenging question bank that other platforms like UWorld or Archer provide.
3. Remar Review
Overview:
Remar Review is known for its simplified, engaging approach to complex NCLEX concepts. It offers video lessons, live workshops, and study materials designed to break down difficult topics into easy-to-understand content.
What it’s good for:
Remar is great for students who need help simplifying complex topics and prefer instructor-led sessions. The live workshops add an interactive element to the study experience.
How it compares:
Remar excels in simplifying difficult content but may not provide as many practice questions or testing features as other platforms like UWorld.
4. UWorld
Overview:
UWorld is one of the most well-known NCLEX prep platforms, offering a comprehensive question bank and detailed rationales. It’s widely praised for its rigorous, challenging practice questions.
What it’s good for:
UWorld is best for students who want to be challenged with tough NCLEX-style questions and need in-depth rationales to understand the reasoning behind each answer.
How it compares:
UWorld is excellent for practice, but it lacks variety in teaching methods and is more focused on question banks and explanations rather than interactive content or multimedia support.
5. Kaplan
Overview:
Kaplan offers a structured, test-taking strategy-focused approach to NCLEX prep. Their program includes live and on-demand classes, practice questions, and detailed strategies for answering questions effectively.
What it’s good for:
Kaplan is great for students who want to focus on learning test-taking strategies. The live classes and personalized study plans help you refine your approach to answering questions.
How it compares:
Kaplan provides excellent test-taking strategies, but it might not be as focused on content mastery compared to other platforms like UWorld or Remar.
6. Hurst Review
Overview:
Hurst Review focuses on building content mastery and critical thinking. It includes live and online classes, practice questions, and strategies for answering complex NCLEX questions.
What it’s good for:
Hurst is ideal for students who want to strengthen their content knowledge and develop critical thinking skills needed to answer challenging NCLEX questions.
How it compares:
While Hurst is great for mastering content and critical thinking, it may not be as focused on providing as many practice questions as platforms like UWorld or Archer.
7. NursingNotes: The NCLEX Revolution
Overview:
NursingNotes is a revolutionary NCLEX prep platform that blends music with study materials to help students retain critical NCLEX content. although NursingNotes has traditional tools such as a testbank and flashcards, it thrives with its music-based approach, NursingNotes offers three innovative music based tools to help enhance your learning experience:
Music-Based Albums:
Study key topics through genre-based tracks (Hip-Hop, R&B, Pop, Country) designed to enhance memory retention. These albums are tailored to cover specific NCLEX topics, making it easier to remember important concepts.
Music-Based Rationales:
NursingNotes takes test bank rationales and turns them into engaging music tracks. This makes it easier to remember the reasoning behind correct and incorrect answers, improving recall during the actual exam.
NeuroBeats Player:
The NeuroBeats player is a unique feature that enhances concentration and memory by playing scientifically designed audio tracks. These tracks stimulate specific brainwaves, helping to improve focus and retention while studying any subject, not just NCLEX-related material.
Best For:
NursingNotes is perfect for auditory learners and anyone looking for a fun and engaging way to reinforce traditional study materials. It’s also a great complementary tool for students using other prep platforms, as it enhances retention and helps with focus.
Combining Resources for Optimal Results
Each of these NCLEX prep programs offers valuable features that can help you succeed. Rather than choosing just one, consider combining resources to create the perfect study plan for your needs. For example:
Use Archer or UWorld for practicing NCLEX-style questions and refining your test-taking strategies.
Incorporate Remar or Kaplan for a more personalized, instructor-led approach to complex topics.
Add NursingNotes to enhance memory retention with music-based albums, rationales, and the NeuroBeats player to improve focus and concentration.
By combining these resources, you’ll create a well-rounded study plan that incorporates multiple methods of learning and retention.
So, Which One Should You Choose?
Ultimately, the right NCLEX prep program depends on your learning style and preferences. Here’s a quick recap to help you decide:
Choose Archer or UWorld if you’re a visual learner who wants to focus on practice questions and rationales.
Go with Remar or Kaplan if you need a more structured, instructor-led approach to complex topics.
Try NursingNotes if you’re an auditory learner or want to enhance your study routine with a fun, music-based tool that helps reinforce your learning.
Remember, the best NCLEX prep program is the one that works best for you. Don’t be afraid to mix and match resources to create a comprehensive study plan.
Ready to Start Your NCLEX Journey?
Now that you have a clearer understanding of the different prep options, it’s time to get started! Check out these programs, and don’t forget to explore NursingNotes to add a fun, innovative tool to your study routine. The more resources you have at your disposal, the better prepared you’ll be for the NCLEX.
