The HESI A2 exam is a critical step in your nursing school application process, and achieving a strong score is key to gaining acceptance. Whether you are preparing to take the exam for the first time or looking to improve a previous score, it’s important to approach your studies strategically. In this guide, we’ll walk you through proven tips and techniques to help you improve your HESI A2 score and increase your chances of success.
Step 1: Understand the HESI A2 Exam Format
Before diving into studying, it’s essential to understand the format of the HESI A2 exam. This knowledge will guide how you allocate your study time and which sections you should focus on most.
The HESI A2 exam consists of the following sections:
Math (50 questions)
Reading Comprehension (50 questions)
Vocabulary & Grammar (50 questions)
Science (Anatomy & Physiology, Biology, Chemistry) (50 questions)
Each section is scored individually, and your overall composite score reflects your performance across all areas. The HESI A2 exam is computer-adaptive, meaning the difficulty of questions adjusts based on your answers, so it’s important to keep your pace steady.
Step 2: Identify Your Weaknesses
To improve your HESI A2 score, you need to first identify your weakest areas. Don’t wait until you’ve taken the full exam. Start by taking a diagnostic practice test to get an idea of where you need the most improvement.
Target Problem Areas: If you find that math is your biggest struggle, allocate extra time to practice fractions, percentages, and ratios. If you’re struggling with the science section, focus on Anatomy and Physiology, which are commonly tested.
Focus on High-Yield Topics: Some areas are more heavily tested than others, such as math word problems, anatomy basics, and critical reading strategies. Knowing where to focus your energy will help you optimize your study time.
By targeting your weaknesses, you can make the most of your preparation and boost your chances of improving your score.
Step 3: Use High-Quality Study Resources
To improve your HESI A2 score, you need to make sure you’re using the best study materials available. The Exam Hive provides HESI A2 practice tests, study guides, and mini-quizzes designed specifically to help you prepare for the exam.
Practice Tests: The Exam Hive’s practice tests simulate real exam conditions and allow you to familiarize yourself with the types of questions you'll encounter. By taking these tests, you can identify areas where you need additional review and track your progress over time.
Study Guides: Our HESI A2 study guides break down each section of the exam and provide in-depth explanations, ensuring you understand the material. Use these guides to reinforce your knowledge and solidify weak areas.
Flashcards & Mini-Quizzes: The Exam Hive’s flashcards and mini-quizzes are excellent for quick, targeted practice. They’re especially helpful for improving vocabulary and grammar in the Vocabulary & Grammar section.
Step 4: Develop Effective Study Habits
Improving your HESI A2 score isn’t just about what you study. It’s about how you study. Here are some tips to help you develop better study habits:
Create a Study Schedule: Studying consistently over a period of time is more effective than cramming the night before. Create a study plan that breaks down your study time by section, and stick to it. Focus on your weak areas early on.
Take Breaks: Don’t overdo it; take regular breaks to keep your brain fresh. For example, after 45 minutes of studying, take a 10-minute break to recharge.
Practice Active Learning: Instead of passively reading through study guides, engage with the material. Practice answering questions, teaching concepts to yourself, and applying what you’ve learned to different situations. This will reinforce your knowledge and improve your retention.
Step 5: Improve Your Time Management Skills
The HESI A2 exam is a timed test, so developing strong time management skills is essential. Here’s how you can improve your pacing:
Timed Practice Tests: Take practice tests under timed conditions to help you get used to the pacing of the real exam. This will help you build test-taking stamina and learn how to pace yourself for each section.
Don’t Get Stuck on Difficult Questions: If you come across a difficult question, don’t spend too much time on it. Move on to the next question, and come back to it later if you have time.
Mastering time management ensures you don’t rush through easier questions and have time to tackle the tougher ones.
Step 6: Review Your Mistakes and Learn from Them
After taking practice tests or quizzes, it’s essential to review your mistakes thoroughly. The Exam Hive’s practice tests provide detailed rationales for every question, so you can understand why certain answers are correct or incorrect. This is key to improving your score on future tests.
Focus on Understanding Mistakes: It’s not enough to just see what you got wrong. Make sure you understand why the answer is what it is. This will help you avoid repeating the same mistakes and improve your performance in those areas.
Track Your Progress: Keep track of your practice test scores and note which areas you’ve improved on and which areas still need more work. This will help you stay motivated and focused.
Step 7: Stay Positive and Confident
Your mindset can make a huge difference when preparing for the HESI A2 exam. Stay confident in your abilities, trust the process, and keep a positive attitude throughout your prep.
Believe in Your Progress: Remember that improvement takes time. If you’re seeing progress, even in small increments, you’re on the right track.
Stay Calm on Test Day: The more you practice with realistic HESI A2 practice tests and quizzes, the more comfortable you’ll be with the exam format. When test day arrives, stay calm and approach the exam with confidence.
Conclusion: Take Control of Your HESI A2 Score
By following these steps, you can significantly improve your HESI A2 score and increase your chances of being admitted to your nursing program. At The Exam Hive, we provide all the tools you need to succeed, from practice tests and study guides to time management tips and test-taking strategies.
Remember, improving your score takes consistent practice and focus. With The Exam Hive’s resources, you have everything you need to reach your goals and ace the HESI A2 exam. We don’t just help you pass exams. We help you think like a nurse.
Feeling ready to boost your HESI A2 score? Get started with our targeted practice tests and resources today!