NCLEX Keyword Strategy

NCLEX Keyword Strategy

NCLEX Keyword Strategy: How to Read the Question

One of the biggest mistakes NCLEX students make is reading the answer choices before fully understanding what the question is asking.

The NCLEX frequently uses bolded modifier words that completely change the meaning of the question.

Never ignore a bolded word. One keyword can completely change the correct answer.
FIRST

Which action should be performed before all others?

BEST

Which answer is the safest or most appropriate?

PRIORITY

Which problem or action is most urgent?

IMMEDIATE

What requires action right now?

INITIAL

What should the nurse do first?

NEXT

What should happen after the current intervention?

MOST IMPORTANT

What has the greatest impact on client safety?

HIGHEST PRIORITY

What problem must be addressed first?

Clinical Judgment Keywords

SUPPORT

Select findings that support the hypothesis or diagnosis.

REFUTE

Select findings that contradict the hypothesis.

INCREASED

Identify findings that become higher, worse, or more frequent.

DECREASED

Identify findings that become lower or improve.

Important: The NCLEX often includes several answers that appear correct. The keyword tells you which answer is the MOST correct.

How to Read Every NCLEX Question

  1. Read the entire question first.
  2. Identify the client problem.
  3. Find the keyword.
  4. Determine what the question is really asking.
  5. Only then review the answer choices.
NurseAdemy Golden Rule

Problem → Risk → Keyword → Priority Action

Most NCLEX questions can be answered correctly by following this sequence.