Always confirm the latest dates, fees and eligibility on the exam provider's official site before applying.
Preparing for the NCLEX-RN — National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses is a crucial step for BSN and ASN graduates aiming for licensure in the United States, Canada, and Australia. With the exam being a Computer Adaptive Test (CAT) administered by Pearson VUE, it’s essential to have the right resources on hand. This guide will cover the best books, online resources, and video courses to help you succeed in your preparation.
Best books for NCLEX-RN preparation 2026
The NCLEX-RN exam assesses your knowledge and skills necessary for safe and effective nursing practice. To prepare effectively, consider the following highly recommended books:
- 1NCLEX-RN Exam Cram by Wilda Rinehart, Diann Sloan, and Clara Hurd
This book is known for its concise content and practice questions that mimic the exam format. It’s ideal for quick reviews and last-minute cramming.
- 1Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-RN Examination by Linda Anne Silvestri
A comprehensive resource that covers all test content areas, this book includes practice questions and detailed rationales, making it an excellent all-in-one study guide.
- 1Lippincott Q&A Review for NCLEX-RN by Diane Billings and Desiree Hensel
This book offers a robust question-and-answer format, helping you to test your knowledge and understand the rationale behind each answer, which is crucial for the adaptive nature of the exam.
- 1Hurst Review NCLEX-RN Review by Hurst Review
This resource is particularly beneficial for those who prefer a structured approach, combining content review with strategic test-taking tips.
Most recommended standard textbook
For a solid foundation in nursing concepts, the Fundamentals of Nursing by Patricia A. Potter and Anne Griffin Perry is highly recommended. This textbook is widely used in nursing programs and provides in-depth coverage of essential nursing principles, making it a great reference throughout your studies.
High-yield review books
High-yield review books are designed to condense information into digestible formats, making them perfect for last-minute revisions. Here are some top choices:
- Kaplan NCLEX-RN Prep Plus by Kaplan Test Prep
This book not only offers practice questions but also provides test-taking strategies that are crucial for passing the NCLEX-RN.
- NCLEX-RN Made Incredibly Easy! by Lippincott Williams & Wilkins
This engaging book simplifies complex concepts, making it easier to remember key information.
Subject-wise top picks
To enhance your understanding of specific subjects, consider the following recommendations:
- Pharmacology: Pharmacology Success: A Q&A Review Applying Critical Thinking to Test Taking by Kathy A. Zahler
This book focuses on pharmacology concepts and includes critical thinking questions to prepare you for the NCLEX-RN.
- Mental Health Nursing: Mental Health Nursing: A Caring Approach by Mary C. Townsend
This textbook covers essential mental health concepts and provides case studies to apply your knowledge.
- Pediatrics: Pediatric Nursing: Caring for Children and Their Families by Carol A. Miller
This book offers a comprehensive view of pediatric nursing, making it a valuable resource for this subject area.
Free PDF and online resources
In addition to textbooks, there are numerous free resources available online:
- NCSBN Official Website: The official site provides a wealth of information, including test plans and candidate bulletins. Visit NCSBN for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
- Khan Academy: Offers free video tutorials on various nursing topics that can supplement your learning.
- NCLEX-RN Practice Questions on PractiseExam.com: Engage with mock tests on PractiseExam.com to familiarise yourself with the exam format and question types.
Video courses worth watching
Video courses can provide a different perspective and help reinforce your learning. Here are some highly recommended options:
- UWorld NCLEX-RN Review: Known for its extensive question bank and detailed rationales, UWorld offers a video course that covers key content areas.
- Nursing.com: This platform provides video lessons alongside practice questions and flashcards, making it a comprehensive resource for NCLEX-RN preparation.
- Hurst Review Services: Their video lectures are known for being engaging and informative, providing a solid review of all essential topics.
Books to avoid (myths)
While preparing for the NCLEX-RN, it’s important to be aware of common myths about study materials. Here are a few books often recommended but may not be effective:
- Outdated Editions: Avoid using older editions of textbooks as nursing practices and guidelines frequently change. Always opt for the latest editions.
- Books with No Practice Questions: Resources that do not include practice questions may not adequately prepare you for the exam format. Focus on books that offer a variety of questions to test your knowledge.
In summary, the right preparation materials can significantly impact your NCLEX-RN success. Combine textbooks with free resources, video courses, and practical question banks to create a well-rounded study plan. Remember to engage with mock tests on PractiseExam.com to assess your readiness as you prepare for this critical examination.