May 12, 2022
Nursing school has a reputation of being rigorous, requiring high levels of dedication and hard work from students. Many nursing students develop a higher level of discipline and are more equipped to evaluate priorities because in order to succeed in nursing school, one must maintain proper study habits and motivation. Those who embrace smart learning strategies and make use of their post-school hours are successful — without the late-night cram sessions.
How to Study in Nursing School
As a nursing student, you may be trying to balance school with work responsibilities and maybe even manage a family. Success requires hard work and planning. By creating a study plan, you can make the best use of your time and manage all facets of your life. Consider implementing these study tips for nursing students:
1. Define a Study Schedule
Please don't wait to study during your free time or when you feel like it. You may find yourself constantly occupied with work, class, friends, or other distractions. Instead, decide on a set schedule for studying. It is best to schedule a dedicated time every day to read new material, go over notes, or prep for an upcoming exam. Even small amounts of study time will solidify what you are learning.
Create your study schedule around your other responsibilities, so you have time for both. You may need to adjust your studying schedule for early in the morning or later in the evening if you're working. If studying at home is difficult during those times of day, consider finding an alternative location where you cannot choose to sleep or watch a show instead. This will promote a more effective study session.
2. Minimize Distractions
Wherever you choose to study, you will need to minimize distractions. Consider silencing your phone, keeping it in your backpack, or hiding it in another room. Text notifications and emails can turn your attention away from studying and result in lost study time.
If people moving in and out or music playing distract you in public settings, consider staying at home. Alternatively, if family members frequently interrupt your study efforts, a public location may be preferable. Wherever you choose to study, make sure you're identifying distractions and removing them to the best of your ability.
3. Motivate Yourself with Rewards
Even the most interesting subject can become tedious after hours of studying. To keep yourself engaged and focused, motivate yourself with rewards for studying. For example, you can allow yourself half an hour of screen time after studying for your next exam. By setting a reward, you can enjoy the learning process and make time for things you enjoy.
4. Study for NCLEX
As a nursing student, it is essential to have a solid grasp of NCLEX content. By studying for the NCLEX early on, you set yourself up for success. It should also support your understanding of class concepts. Take practice NCLEX exams frequently and study these concepts throughout your nursing program.
5. Use Your Resources
Class material provides an excellent resource for studying, as that material will likely be tested on and built on throughout the class. However, you do not need to limit yourself to class resources. Consider adding relevant podcasts, YouTube videos, or trustworthy articles to your study regimen. This also provides different formats for learning. For example, videos may give you the help you need to succeed as a visual learner.
If you still need help, consider these learning formats:
- Study groups
- Working with a tutor
- Meeting with your instructor
- Using the school library
6. Set Goals
Studying throughout a nursing degree program can result in burnout. To avoid additional stress, create manageable learning goals. Meeting each goal results in a feeling of accomplishment, and you'll realize how much you've learned.
Keep a list of your goals and look back on them when you feel discouraged. You'll be reminded of your extraordinary capacity for learning and growth. Examples of small goals include learning human anatomy or memorizing medical terms.
7. Minimize Stress
Stress is antithetical to learning and wellness. As a nursing student, you will need to manage your stress. Stress often results in panic and hinders the absorption of study material. It also can manifest negatively in your relationships and responsibilities outside of school.
Consider these tips to minimize stress during school:
- Find ways to exercise, such as walking or going to the gym
- Plan a relaxing outing at least once a week
- Study with a friend
- Take breaks throughout your study sessions
- Stretch and perform deep breathing exercises
By taking breaks and implementing stress-abating activities, you can have a positive mindset through even the most difficult study material.
Read More: Daily Mindfulness Exercises To Reduce Stress
8. Stay Ahead in Class
As you move through your nursing program, you may feel yourself falling behind as core concepts compound. Avoid this through proactive study measures. Review class material before you go to class; this way, you are prepared for the subject and can glean the more profound concepts from the lecture. If you feel yourself falling behind, take immediate action and meet with a peer or a professor who can get you back on track.
Remember that understanding, not memorization, is the goal of your program. If you only seek to memorize material for exams, you will quickly forget them after the exam is taken. Instead, develop your critical thinking capabilities and understanding so you can think through problems as they arise. This will help you as you move to more complex classes.
Staying Comfortable as You Study
Don't forget the adage "dress for success." Investing in quality scrubs can help you feel more confident in your abilities at school, in your practicums, and in studying. Remember helpful study accessories, such as a watch or planner to keep you on track as you study. Also, remember to bring water and snacks to stay fueled and focused.
Embrace Studying
After you identify a study schedule that will work for you, make sure you communicate with your friends, family, and even employer. Explain that your study schedule will support your success at school and ask for their understanding and encouragement. By respecting your study time, you will be more engaged during your time with them — whether that is on the job or over family dinner. After determining what tips for nursing students work best for you, there's nothing left but to embrace all the learning that will follow.
Let us know what you think, do you have a study tips you would add to the list?
