Is the NLN Nex exam multiple choice?

Q: Is the NLN Nex exam multiple choice?

A: Yes, the NLN NEX exam is comprised entirely of multiple-choice questions. There are no essay, short answer, or other question formats on the test.

Q: What is the structure of the exam sections?

A: The exam is divided into three timed sections, each containing multiple-choice questions:

  • Math Section: Approximately 40 questions.
  • Science Section: Approximately 60 questions, covering biology, chemistry, physics, and anatomy & physiology.
  • Reading Section: Approximately 40 questions.

Q: What is the typical format of the multiple-choice questions?

A: Most questions follow a standard format: a question stem (which may be a sentence, a paragraph, or a problem) followed by four possible answer choices (A, B, C, D). You must select the one best answer. The math and science sections often include word problems that require you to apply knowledge and calculations to find the correct solution.

Q: Are there any “Select All That Apply” or other complex multiple-choice formats?

A: No. The NEX exam uses traditional, single-answer multiple-choice questions. You will not encounter “Select All That Apply,” drag-and-drop, or hotspot questions on this exam.

Q: How should I prepare for a multiple-choice exam like the NEX?

A: Effective preparation requires a strategy tailored to the multiple-choice format:

  1. Practice with Official Materials: Use the official NLN NEX study guide and practice tests. These provide the most accurate examples of the question style and difficulty you will see.
  2. Learn Test-Taking Strategies:
    • Read the full question carefully before looking at the answers.
    • Try to predict the answer in your mind before reviewing the choices.
    • Use the process of elimination to rule out obviously incorrect options.
    • Manage your time within each section; do not spend too long on any single question.
  3. Review Content Comprehensively: Since the test is multiple-choice, you need a broad understanding of the topics to recognize correct answers and eliminate distractors.

Q: Where can I find more details about specific sections, like the math rules?

A: For in-depth information on policies for individual sections, such as the prohibition of calculators, you can review our resource on calculator use for the NEX exam.

Scroll to Top