5 Study Techniques Every Nursing Student Should Know

Nursing school requires a different approach to studying than your undergraduate days. You're not just memorizing facts - you're learning to think critically and apply knowledge in high-stakes situations. Here are five techniques that actually work.

1. Active Recall Over Passive Reading

Reading and highlighting feels productive but barely moves information into long-term memory. Instead:

• Close your book and write down everything you remember
• Use flashcards actively (don't just flip and read)
• Explain concepts out loud as if teaching someone
• Take practice questions before you feel "ready"

2. Spaced Repetition

Cramming works for short-term tests but fails for NCLEX and clinical practice. Space your review:

• Review new material within 24 hours
• Review again at 3 days, then 1 week, then 2 weeks
• Use apps like Anki that automate spacing

3. Interleaving Topics

Don't study one topic until you "master" it. Mix related topics in each session. This builds the connections your brain needs for NCLEX-style questions that combine multiple concepts.

4. Clinical Application Practice

For every concept, ask yourself: "When would I see this? What would I do?" Create mini case studies. Example: You're learning about heart failure - imagine the patient, their symptoms, your assessments, your interventions.

5. Teach It to Learn It

Form study groups where each person teaches a topic. Explaining forces you to organize knowledge and reveals gaps you didn't know you had. If you can't find a study group, explain concepts to a family member or even a pet.