If you’re planning to take the HESI exam, there are some things you should know. The HESI test is used by nursing programs to help determine whether a prospective student is ready to begin the nursing program.
Practice tests can help you see your strengths and weaknesses when it comes to the exam. They can show you that you need to work on grammar, biology, and chemistry or vocabulary and anatomy.
1. Take Practice Tests
It’s critical to take a few practice tests before you sit for your HESI exam. This will help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, which will guide your study plan.
You’ll also get comfortable working under time constraints, which can ease anxiety on test day. Practice using a timer while taking your first HESI Chemistry practice test, so you can understand how to pace yourself.
If you find it difficult to score well on the multiple-choice sections, consider finding an online course or a book that offers study tips for multiple-choice questions. These tips can include methods of elimination, making educated guesses, and learning time-saving techniques. These strategies can make a big difference in your overall score! You can also use your practice tests to check for understanding, by reading the rationales of the answers.
2. Know the Exam Content
The HESI exam consists of 8 different sections that vary by the program you are applying for. Most schools require that students take the math, reading comprehension, vocabulary, and grammar portions while others may include the biology, chemistry, anatomy and physiology portions of the test.
Taking practice tests can help you prepare for each section and also learn how to pace yourself during the actual exam. The score report from Smart Edition Academy can even break down the questions that took you the longest time to answer so you can address any areas where your performance is not up to par.
Practice tests that have detailed answer explanations can further help you identify your strengths and weaknesses. If you find that you are good at grammar but need to work on your biology skills or chemistry knowledge, consider working with a tutor who can focus on the specific areas where you need help.
3. Study Different Topics at Once
The HESI exam is important because it gives nursing schools a clear picture of your readiness to enter their program. It can seem daunting at first, but with the right tips and study methods, you can score high on your test!
One of the best ways to improve your score is to divide and conquer. Use a practice test to see where you need to focus your studies on – it will help you break down the test by topic so you can address each subject individually.
Another useful tool is using flashcards to study vocab. You can find a lot of helpful study materials on YouTube and in online study groups such as the “Free HESI A2 Study Group” or the “HESI Prep Course Community”. These communities are a great way to connect with other students studying for the exam, get help from moderators, and find new resources.
4. Get a Good Night’s Sleep
Getting a good night’s sleep the night before your HESI test will help improve your score. Cramming or pulling an all-nighter can actually hurt your performance on the exam because you’ll make more mistakes due to fatigue.
Nursing programs are often oversubscribed and competitive, so a high HESI score is essential for earning that place in the program. The test evaluates skills and knowledge that will be important for your future career, including reading comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, math, biology, chemistry, and anatomy & physiology.
The best way to prepare for the HESI exam is by using quality study materials and practice tests, eliminating distractions, and making a solid plan. Quizlet’s HESI A2 Prep Pack includes full practice tests, a customizable review mode, and study tools to help you score a high HESI score.
5. Avoid Distractions
It’s important to avoid distractions when you are studying for the HESI exam. This will help you focus on the material and ensure that you are able to recall it when test day arrives. To minimize distractions, try to study in a quiet place where you can concentrate.
You will also want to ensure that you are not distracted by other people around you while you’re studying. This can distract you and cause you to forget or misunderstand the material you are reviewing.
Many nursing schools require students to take the HESI exam prior to completing their program. To be successful, you will need to use effective tools like practice tests and study guides. Start your nursing career off on the right foot by passing your HESI exam with a high score.
