The Secret to NAPLEX Success

As a pharmacist, one of the most significant challenges you'll face is the NAPLEX exam—the ultimate test of your pharmacy knowledge and skills. However, succeeding in this high-stakes exam isn't solely determined by the number of hours you spend studying. Surprisingly, the key to NAPLEX success lies in your mindset. As a former anxious test-taker, I understand the struggle, which is why I'm sharing proven strategies to transform your approach to NAPLEX preparation and performance on the big day.

Strategy #1: Be Confident in Your Knowledge as You've Learned

To overcome feelings of worry and doubt, reframe your mindset when it comes to studying. Instead of perceiving it as "studying," think of it as "reviewing" or "refining" your skills. You've encountered this material before during your pharmacy school career, so your brain has some familiarity with it. Your goal is to brush off the cobwebs and bring the information to the forefront of your memory.

Remember that the NAPLEX assesses your competence as a pharmacist, not your expertise in specialized fields like infectious diseases or cardiology. Your focus should be on being a minimally competent pharmacist who can safely care for patients on day one of licensure.

Moreover, don't get disheartened by missed questions during practice. The NAPLEX scoring system is designed to prioritize essential knowledge, and some questions are worth more points than others. If you want to learn more about exactly how the NAPLEX is scored, you can click here to read an article that breaks it down.

Strategy #2: Prepare for Success

Top athletes practice as if it's game day, and you should do the same with your NAPLEX practice tests. Create an exam-like environment by clearing your desk, removing distractions like smartwatches and phones, and having only basic tools like a calculator, laminated paper, and marker at hand.

As for time management, aim for approximately 1 minute and 20 seconds per question. Some questions will be straightforward and quick, allowing you more time to tackle complex calculations or difficult concepts. Strive for a good score in practice quizzes, but keep in mind the subjects that are more critical for a minimally competent pharmacist like diabetes, heart disease and hypertension.

When faced with challenging questions, employ a systematic approach. Highlight key points, write down what you know about the topic, consider the mechanism of action, eliminate incorrect answers, and make your best guess.

Strategy #3: Minimize Anxiety on Test Day

Avoid last-minute cramming, as it only increases your anxiety. Stick to your evening and morning routine, and be thoroughly prepared with all necessary documents and information about the test location. If you don’t know what you need to get into the exam room, check out all the information about the NAPLEX requirements on the NABP website by clicking here.

Consider setting multiple alarms to ensure you arrive early if showing up on time is a concern for you. During the exam, practice calming techniques like belly breaths and box breathing. Stretch during breaks to release tension and maintain focus.

Above all, avoid negative self-talk, especially after missing questions. As you study, treat mistakes as valuable learning opportunities that help you grow and improve your knowledge.

The Bottom Line:

Success in the NAPLEX hinges on cultivating the right mindset. Reframe your approach to studying as refining your skills, and be confident in the knowledge you've acquired during your education. Embrace practice tests as an opportunity to simulate test day conditions and learn from your mistakes.

On the day of the exam, take care of your mental and physical well-being, and minimize anxiety through preparation and calming techniques. Remember, you've overcome challenges in the past, and the NAPLEX is no different. You can do it!

Lastly, to further enhance your preparation, consider using TrueLearn's question bank with over 1500 practice questions. If you want an extra discount, you can use my code HAPPYPHARM for 20% off a subscription of 90 days or more. Click here to check out the paid test back or take advantage of their free trial!

Good luck on your NAPLEX journey, and until next time, keep living your happy pharm life!