Best HESI A2 Study Guide: Top Picks for 2025

The HESI A2 exam is a crucial step for aspiring nursing students. As an admissions test for nursing schools, it assesses your knowledge across various subjects, such as reading comprehension, grammar, vocabulary, mathematics, and anatomy/psychology. Due to its importance, it’s essential to prepare thoroughly. With over 300 multiple-choice questions and a test duration of approximately four hours, the HESI A2 is designed to challenge you, but with the right study approach and the best HESI A2 study guide, you can increase your chances of success.

This exam is not a pass/fail test but is scored on a scale from 750 to 900. Each nursing school has its own score requirement, so knowing where you stand and preparing accordingly is key. The right HESI A2 study guide can make all the difference in how well you perform. Whether you’re looking for practice questions, study materials, or test-taking strategies, a solid prep course can help you feel confident and well-prepared on exam day.

In this article, we’ll compare the top five HESI A2 study guides to help you choose the best one for your needs. By the end of this guide, you’ll better understand each course’s features, pros, and cons and which is best suited for your learning style.

Key Takeaways

• The HESI A2 exam is important for nursing school admissions, covering subjects like reading, math, anatomy, and psychology.
• The test is scored between 750-900, and different nursing schools have varying score requirements for admission.
• Choosing the right prep course is crucial for success, as it can help you stay on track and increase your chances of passing.
• We’ll explore the five best HESI A2 prep courses, comparing features, pros, and cons to help you make an informed decision.

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5 Best HESI A2 Study Guides Compared for 2025

When preparing for the HESI A2 exam, choosing the right study resources that match your learning style is important. This exam is essential for nursing school admissions, so thorough preparation is key to success. Below, we’ve compared five top-rated HESI A2 study guides and prep courses, each offering unique features to help you perform at your best.

1. Mometrix HESI A2 Study Guide

The Mometrix HESI A2 Study Guide is one of the top prep resources for students aiming to take the HESI A2 exam. Whether you’re preparing for nursing school or just need a strong foundation in general test-taking skills, this guide is designed to help you pass the exam with confidence. With thousands of interactive practice questions, step-by-step tutorial videos, and instant access to all the materials, this study guide offers a robust approach to mastering the exam content. The course is well-suited for students who appreciate a multi-faceted approach to studying, combining text, visuals, and videos to enhance their learning experience.

Course Overview:

Mometrix HESI A2 Study Guide features a comprehensive study material suite to give students an edge when preparing for the HESI A2 exam. This guide includes 2,650 interactive practice questions that mirror the format and content of the actual exam. With the option to review these questions at your own pace, you can focus on the areas that need the most improvement. The guide also includes 150 detailed video lessons and 188 step-by-step tutorial videos that break down difficult concepts for easier comprehension.

Additionally, Mometrix offers flashcards, progress-tracking sheets, and valuable test-taking tips. These tools help students stay organized and on track during study sessions. The guide is designed for various learning styles. It includes quizzes, flashcards, instructional videos, and detailed visual aids such as graphs, charts, and data.

Key Features:

• 2,650 Interactive Practice Questions: Thousands of practice questions help you familiarize yourself with the exam format.
• 150 Video Lessons: Clear, concise video lessons to explain difficult concepts.
• 188 Step-by-step Tutorial Videos: Perfect for visual learners who need to see problems worked out.
• Instant Access: Get started immediately with no waiting time.
• 325 Flashcards: For reinforcing key concepts and terms.
• Progress Tracking Sheets: Easily track your progress and adjust your study plan.
• Well-Researched Content: Ensures you’re studying only the most relevant and accurate material.
• Visual Aids: Graphs, images, and data to clarify and simplify complex ideas.
• Test-Taking Tips: Practical advice on approaching the exam and managing your time.

Pros of Mometrix HESI A2 Study Guide

1. Comprehensive Study Materials

Mometrix offers an all-in-one package of study materials designed to prepare you for the HESI A2 exam thoroughly. With over 2,600 practice questions, detailed video lessons, and step-by-step tutorials, you’ll have everything you need to understand the concepts, practice key skills, and test your knowledge. This variety of study resources helps cater to different learning styles, ensuring a more effective and personalized approach.

2. Interactive and Engaging Content

Including interactive features such as quizzes, flashcards, and video lessons makes the study process more engaging. This approach helps keep students interested in their studies, which is key for long-term retention. The interactive nature of the questions allows for immediate feedback, helping you understand why you got a question wrong and how to approach similar ones in the future.

3. Progress Tracking and Customization

One of the standout features is the progress tracking sheets that allow you to monitor your progress throughout the study process. This helps you stay on track and adjust your study plan accordingly. You can easily identify which sections you need to focus on more, ensuring you’re devoting the right amount of time to each topic.

4. Excellent Customer Support

Mometrix provides excellent customer support, ensuring you can get answers to any questions or concerns during your study journey. Whether you’re unsure about a concept or need technical assistance, the prompt and helpful customer service will give you peace of mind throughout your preparation.

5. Clear and Concise Study Plan

The study plan is well-organized and straightforward, making it easy to follow. The various study materials are broken down into manageable sections, helping you stay focused without feeling overwhelmed. The structure of the guide ensures that students can work through the materials at their own pace, setting them up for success on test day.

Cons of Mometrix HESI A2 Study Guide

1. Cost of the Course

One of the biggest drawbacks of the Mometrix HESI A2 Study Guide is its price. Compared to other study guides, Mometrix is on the more expensive side, which may be a barrier for some students. While the value of the materials justifies the cost, those on a tight budget may find it hard to justify the investment.

2. Potentially Overwhelming for Some Learners

The sheer volume of content can be overwhelming for some students. With over 2,600 practice questions, 150 video lessons, and numerous flashcards and tutorials, it might be difficult for some learners to stay focused or know where to begin. This can be particularly challenging for those who prefer a more streamlined, less intensive study approach.

3. Limited Hands-On Practice

Although the guide offers plenty of practice questions and video lessons, some students might prefer more hands-on practice or real-world examples to help them solidify their understanding of the material. The absence of interactive simulations or more practical exercises could leave some students feeling underprepared for the test environment.

4. Mobile Accessibility Issues

While Mometrix provides great content, some users have reported that the platform isn’t as mobile-friendly as they would like. This could challenge students who prefer to study on the go using their phones or tablets, especially if the site or app isn’t fully optimized for smaller screens or mobile browsing.

5. Requires a Reliable Internet Connection

A stable internet connection is essential since most course materials are accessed online. Students who experience internet outages or slow connections may find it difficult to access the study materials consistently, potentially hindering their progress.

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2. Nursing.com HESI Exam Prep

The Nursing.com HESI A2 Prep Course is a comprehensive and flexible study program designed for students preparing for the HESI A2 exam, with a focus on nursing knowledge and skills. Known for its detailed and diverse resources, this course provides an extensive range of study materials to ensure you’re well-prepared for the exam and beyond. Whether you are new to nursing exams or seeking a more advanced understanding, Nursing.com offers a variety of tools to fit different learning styles and needs. From practice questions to cheat sheets and personalized study plans, this course aims to give students the best chance of passing the HESI A2 exam while laying the groundwork for future nursing exams like the NCLEX.

Course Overview:

The Nursing.com HESI A2 Prep Course features an extensive library of study tools to prepare students for the HESI A2 exam and their nursing school journey. With access to over 7,000 practice questions, this course offers one of the largest and most varied practice question banks available. It also includes 350+ nursing cheat sheets, 150+ nursing care plans, and 300+ mnemonic devices, ensuring students retain key information more effectively.

In addition to these materials, the course offers 8 eBooks covering various topics relevant to the HESI A2 and nursing school. One of the standout features of this course is the NCLEX Simulation, which gives students a chance to practice with questions similar to those they’ll face in future nursing exams. The course also provides printable lesson notes and personalized study plans, both of which can be customized to fit the learner’s unique needs.

Key Features:

• 350+ Nursing Cheat Sheets: Quick and easy-to-understand reference guides summarizing important nursing concepts.
• 150+ Nursing Care Plans: Learn how to develop nursing care plans and understand their significance in the exam.
• 300+ Mnemonic Devices: Boost memory retention with creative and memorable mnemonics for difficult topics.
• Printable Lesson Notes: Organize your notes efficiently with Cornell-style notes for easier review.
• 8 eBooks: Gain access to eBooks covering essential topics related to the HESI A2 and nursing.
• Free Practice Test Trial: Test your readiness with a free trial of practice questions before committing to the full course.
• NCLEX Simulation: Prepare for future nursing exams with realistic questions simulating the NCLEX.
• 7,000+ Practice Questions: A massive collection of questions covering all subjects on the HESI A2 exam.
• Personalized Study Plans: Tailor your study schedule to suit your specific needs and goals.

Pros of Nursing.com HESI A2 Prep Course

1. Extensive Practice Question Bank

With over 7,000 practice questions, Nursing.com offers one of the most comprehensive question banks available for HESI A2 preparation. This vast resource ensures that you can practice all aspects of the exam and build confidence as you move through the material. The sheer volume of questions helps you familiarize yourself with the exam format and the types of questions you’ll face, ensuring that you’re ready for any challenge that may arise.

2. Wide Range of Study Materials

Nursing.com provides diverse study tools, including cheat sheets, nursing care plans, mnemonic devices, and eBooks. These resources cover all aspects of the HESI A2 exam, allowing you to reinforce your knowledge in multiple ways. The cheat sheets offer quick-reference guides, while the mnemonic devices make memorizing difficult concepts easier, providing an effective way to retain information for the long term.

3. Personalized Study Plans

One of the standout features of this course is the personalized study plans. These plans are designed to cater to your unique needs, allowing you to focus on areas where you need the most improvement. This flexibility helps you optimize your study time and ensures you’re using your efforts efficiently without wasting time on areas you’re already confident in.

4. NCLEX Simulation for Future Exams

The NCLEX Simulation feature is a valuable tool for students planning to pursue a nursing career. By practicing with questions like those found on the NCLEX, students can get a taste of what’s to come in future exams. This feature helps you prepare for the HESI A2 and sets you up for success in nursing school and beyond.

5. Free Practice Test Trial

Nursing.com offers a free practice test trial, allowing you to assess your skills before committing to the full course. This is a great way to test the course and determine if it fits your study style and needs. It’s a risk-free option that allows you to get a preview of the materials and resources you’ll be working with.

Cons of Nursing.com HESI A2 Prep Course

1. Interface Can Be Overwhelming for Beginners

While the course offers many resources, some users have reported that the interface can be overwhelming for beginners. With so many features, materials, and tools, new users may find it difficult to know where to start or how to navigate the platform effectively. The large volume of content may take some time to get used to.

2. Higher Price Point

Compared to other HESI A2 prep options, Nursing.com’s pricing may be on the higher end. While the value of the materials justifies the cost for many students, those on a tight budget may find it challenging to commit to the full price. The investment may concern some, but the course’s extensive resources and personalized study plans offer much value.

3. Not as Focused on Basic Content

While the course offers a lot of advanced nursing-related content, some students may find it doesn’t focus as heavily on foundational or introductory material. If you’re looking for a more basic review or are new to nursing studies, you might find that certain sections assume prior knowledge or dive into more complex concepts too quickly.

4. Mobile Accessibility

Some students have expressed that the mobile version of the course could use improvements. If you prefer studying on the go with your mobile device, you may find the platform less convenient. The mobile interface may not be as user-friendly or feature-rich as the desktop version, potentially limiting the experience for those who study primarily on their phones or tablets.

5. Overwhelming Amount of Content

While the large amount of practice questions and resources is beneficial, it can also be overwhelming for students who prefer a more structured, straightforward study approach. The sheer volume of material can make it difficult to know where to focus first or to follow a clear study path, especially for those who thrive on simplicity.

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3. ExamEdge HESI A2 Study Materials

ExamEdge tailors its HESI A2 Study Materials to help students prepare for the HESI A2 exam by providing a highly realistic, exam-like experience. With up to 40 full-length practice tests, detailed explanations, and test-taking tips, these resources simulate the actual exam environment to help students perform at their best. Whether you’re aiming for nursing school or another healthcare program, ExamEdge’s study materials equip you with the tools to improve your score. This course offers practice exams that mimic real test conditions, making it ideal for students who want to familiarize themselves with the test’s structure and pacing.

Course Overview:

The ExamEdge HESI A2 Study Materials provide a comprehensive approach to test preparation. With 40 full-length practice tests, you can experience the types of questions you will face on the exam. These practice tests closely mimic the actual exam’s format, ensuring you can familiarize yourself with the test environment. The guide includes test-taking tips and strategies, which help you manage stress and boost performance on test day.

One of the key features of ExamEdge’s course is its three testing modes: timed, untimed, and explained. Each mode serves different learning styles, allowing students to choose their preferred pace. The detailed explanations for every practice test question provide in-depth insight into why specific answers are correct, offering students a deeper understanding of the material. This review system helps reinforce learning and identify areas for improvement. ExamEdge also guarantees that all materials are updated annually to stay aligned with the latest HESI A2 exam trends.

Key Features:

• 1-40 Practice Tests: Access up to 40 practice exams replicating the HESI A2 format.
• Realistic Exam Format: Questions are designed to mirror what you will encounter on test day.
• Test-Taking Tips and Strategies: Expert advice to improve exam performance and manage stress.
• Detailed Explanations: Receive thorough explanations for each question to enhance understanding.
• Three Testing Modes: Choose between timed, untimed, or explained modes to suit your study preferences.
• Updated Annually: Materials are refreshed each year to reflect the latest changes to the HESI A2 exam.

Pros of ExamEdge HESI A2 Study Materials

1. Realistic Practice Tests

One of the most beneficial features of ExamEdge is the realistic practice tests. The practice exams are designed to closely resemble the actual HESI A2 test, from question format to timing constraints. Regularly practicing with these tests gives students a true sense of what to expect on exam day, which can help reduce anxiety and boost confidence.

2. Flexible Testing Modes

The availability of three testing modes—timed, untimed, and explained—allows you to tailor your study sessions to your needs. The timed mode simulates real test conditions, helping you build time-management skills. The untimed mode is useful for students who want to focus on understanding the material without the pressure of the clock. The explained mode is ideal for those who want to review the rationale behind each answer and reinforce their learning.

3. Detailed Feedback for Each Question

After completing a practice test, you will receive detailed explanations for each question. These explanations help you understand why a particular answer is correct, ensuring that you grasp the underlying concepts. This feedback helps with immediate learning and strengthens your ability to approach similar questions in the future.

4. Annual Updates

The course is updated annually to reflect the most recent trends and changes in the HESI A2 exam. This ensures that students study the most relevant material and that the practice tests remain aligned with the actual exam’s structure and difficulty level. By keeping the content fresh, ExamEdge ensures that your prep is always up to date.

5. Helps with Test-Day Anxiety

With the test-taking tips and strategies provided, you can manage your stress levels and perform at your best on exam day. These tips cover study techniques and strategies for handling the pressure and time constraints of the actual exam, which is invaluable for students who may be nervous about the test.

Cons of ExamEdge HESI A2 Study Materials

1. Lack of Video Lessons or In-Depth Tutorials

While the practice tests and explanations are helpful, ExamEdge does not include video lessons or in-depth tutorials. This could be a drawback for students who learn best through visual explanations or those who require more detailed instruction on complex concepts. The guide primarily focuses on practice exams, so if you need a more comprehensive review of the material, you may need to look for additional resources.

2. Limited Extra Resources

Compared to other study programs, ExamEdge offers limited supplementary resources. While the practice tests and explanations are excellent for preparing for the exam, no additional tools such as mnemonics, cheat sheets, or reading materials could further help reinforce key concepts. Students looking for a wider variety of resources may find this a limitation.

3. No Interactive Elements

Unlike other study materials incorporating multimedia elements like interactive quizzes, flashcards, or videos, ExamEdge focuses primarily on practice tests. Some students may feel that the lack of interactive or engaging study tools means there are fewer ways to reinforce learning beyond answering practice questions.

4. Can Be Repetitive

Because the primary focus of ExamEdge is on practice tests, students may find that some of the questions can feel repetitive over time. This could potentially lead to burnout or fatigue, especially if you’re working through many practice tests without much variation in the format or approach.

5. Higher Cost

ExamEdge’s offerings come at a higher cost than other prep materials. While the course is effective, students on a budget may find the price to be a barrier, especially when combined with the fact that the guide doesn’t offer as many supplementary resources as other, more affordable options.

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4. PocketPrep HESI A2 Mobile Practice Tests

The PocketPrep HESI A2 Mobile Practice Tests are a convenient and effective study tool for students preparing for the HESI A2 exam, particularly for those on the go. As a mobile-focused solution, it’s perfect for busy students who want to make the most of their downtime and study wherever they are. With 1,475 practice questions, customizable quizzes, and a clear progress breakdown, PocketPrep ensures you’re testing your knowledge and focusing on areas that need improvement. Its user-friendly interface makes it easy to navigate and use for quick, focused study sessions. Whether you’re commuting, taking a break, or waiting for an appointment, PocketPrep lets you fit in study time anytime, anywhere.

Course Overview:

PocketPrep HESI A2 Mobile Practice Tests are designed for students who need flexibility in their study schedule. With 1,475 practice questions, this app provides a comprehensive way to prepare for the HESI A2 exam, focusing on reinforcing knowledge in a time-efficient manner. The progress tracking feature provides a visual breakdown of your strengths and weaknesses, making it easy to monitor improvements.

The mobile-optimized format allows you to study on the go, whether on your smartphone or tablet. It gives you the ability to practice both timed and untimed tests, giving you the option to simulate the real exam environment or study at your own pace. Additionally, the app includes 10-question quick quizzes, which are ideal for squeezing in short study sessions when you’re pressed for time.

Key Features:

• 1,475 Practice Questions: A large variety of practice questions help reinforce key concepts.
• Progress Breakdown: Visualize your progress with detailed breakdowns of strengths and weaknesses.
• Mobile-Friendly: Fully optimized for smartphones and tablets, making it easy to study on the go.
• 10-Question Quick Quizzes: Ideal for quick study sessions, perfect for busy schedules.
• Revisit Incorrect Answers: Focus on weak areas by reviewing incorrect answers and improving.
• Timed and Untimed Tests: Simulate the exam environment with timed practice or go at your own pace.
• Customizable Quizzes: Tailor quizzes to focus on specific areas where you need more practice.

Pros of PocketPrep HESI A2 Mobile Practice Tests

1. Excellent for Mobile Learning

One of the biggest advantages of the PocketPrep HESI A2 study tool is its mobile-optimized format. With the ability to study anytime, anywhere, you can make the most of your spare time during commutes or while waiting for appointments. The convenience of having everything at your fingertips helps make studying a seamless part of your daily routine, particularly for students with busy schedules.

2. Customizable Quizzes

PocketPrep allows you to customize your quizzes based on specific areas you want to focus on, ensuring that you spend more time on the topics that need improvement. This feature is perfect for those who know exactly where their weaknesses lie and want to target those areas to improve performance. The ability to select specific topics or question types makes studying much more efficient.

3. Focus on Weak Areas

The ability to revisit incorrect answers is a powerful feature that helps reinforce learning. By reviewing what you got wrong, you can better understand where you need to improve. This focused review helps correct mistakes and strengthen your overall knowledge base, giving you more confidence heading into the exam.

4. Clear and Concise Progress Tracking

The progress breakdown feature provides clear, visual insights into your strengths and weaknesses. This makes it easy to see which areas you’re excelling in and which need more attention. Tracking your progress in a visual format can be motivating and helps you stay on top of your study goals.

5. Flexibility with Timed and Untimed Tests

With the option to choose between timed and untimed tests, PocketPrep allows you to tailor your practice to your specific needs. If you want to simulate the exam environment, the timed tests are perfect for preparing you for the pressure of the actual test. On the other hand, untimed tests let you work at your own pace, ensuring that you thoroughly understand each question before moving on.

Cons of PocketPrep HESI A2 Mobile Practice Tests

1. Limited to Mobile Devices

One limitation of PocketPrep is that it’s primarily designed for use on mobile devices like smartphones and tablets. While this makes it convenient for on-the-go studying, some students may find that they need a larger screen or a more comprehensive study experience, which might require another device for more in-depth learning.

2. Mobile Interface May Be Restrictive for Some Users

Although the mobile interface is user-friendly, some users may find it a bit restrictive regarding more detailed study sessions. The small screen and limited functionality could make it harder to navigate longer study materials or engage in more complex studying, particularly if you prefer more extensive, non-mobile study sessions.

3. Lack of Visual Learning Materials

Unlike other study guides that offer video lessons, tutorials, or interactive visuals, PocketPrep relies mainly on practice questions and quizzes. This could be a downside for learners who prefer visual aids, such as graphs or images, to help clarify complex concepts or improve understanding.

4. No Full-Length Practice Tests

Although the app offers plenty of practice questions, it lacks the option for full-length practice tests. Some students may prefer to take full mock exams to simulate the test-day experience. Without this feature, it can be harder to gauge your readiness for the actual exam.

5. No Access to Detailed Explanations

While PocketPrep offers practice questions and progress tracking, it doesn’t always provide in-depth explanations for the correct answers. Students who need detailed explanations to fully understand why a particular answer is correct or incorrect may find this frustrating. Having access to more thorough explanations could improve the learning experience.

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5. BoostPrep HESI A2 Online Prep Courses

The BoostPrep HESI A2 Online Prep Course helps students effectively prepare for the HESI A2 exam, which is essential for nursing school admissions. It focuses on providing an in-depth understanding of the test’s content and includes 24 full-length practice exams with up-to-date questions to ensure students are well-prepared for the actual exam day. Whether you’re new to the HESI A2 exam or looking to refine your skills, this prep course offers the structure, resources, and support you need to succeed.

Course Overview:

The BoostPrep HESI A2 Online Prep Course focuses on delivering a comprehensive and up-to-date study plan that covers every aspect of the HESI A2 exam. The course includes in-depth study guides for each exam section, ensuring that all major topics are thoroughly reviewed. One of its standout features is the 24 full-length practice exams, which are specifically designed to mimic the exact format and structure of the real exam. This helps you become familiar with the timing, question types, and overall experience of the test.

With regularly updated questions, BoostPrep ensures you’re working with the most current and relevant material. This gives you confidence that you’re not studying outdated or irrelevant content. While it doesn’t provide a variety of supplementary materials like mnemonics or flashcards, the course’s focus on practice exams and comprehensive study guides ensures that you’ll have the knowledge needed to perform well.

Key Features:

• In-Depth Study Guides: Detailed content breakdown for each exam section, covering everything you need to know.
• Up-to-date Questions: Regularly updated material to ensure you’re studying the most relevant topics.
• 24 Full-Length Practice Exams: Simulate the actual exam experience with timed, full-length practice tests.
• Exact Exam Format: Questions closely resembling the format and structure of the real test.

Pros of BoostPrep HESI A2 Online Prep Course

1. In-Depth Study Guides

BoostPrep provides detailed and thorough study guides for each section of the exam. These guides break down complex topics into easy-to-understand concepts, allowing you to grasp the material more effectively. The study guides follow the same structure as the actual exam, ensuring that you’re focusing on the right content from the get-go.

2. Real Exam Experience with Full-Length Practice Exams

One of the most valuable features of the BoostPrep course is its 24 full-length practice exams. These practice tests closely mimic the structure and format of the real HESI A2 exam, providing an authentic test-taking experience. By practicing with these exams, you can get used to the timing, pressure, and types of questions that will appear on the actual test.

3. Updated Material

BoostPrep regularly updates its course material, ensuring that you’re studying the most current content. This is particularly important for exams like the HESI A2, where the material can evolve over time. By offering up-to-date questions and study guides, BoostPrep helps you stay ahead of the curve and prepares you for the latest versions of the exam.

4. Exact Exam Format

The course includes practice questions that are designed to match the exact format of the HESI A2 exam. This is crucial for getting familiar with how the questions are structured and what to expect during the test. It helps you build confidence and practice the test-taking strategies needed to succeed.

5. Comprehensive Coverage of All Test Sections

From reading comprehension to anatomy, the BoostPrep course covers all sections of the exam. Each section is broken down into manageable chunks, making it easier to study at your own pace and ensuring that you don’t miss any important topics. This comprehensive approach makes sure you’re well-prepared for all aspects of the exam.

Cons of BoostPrep HESI A2 Online Prep Course

1. Limited Interactive Content

While the BoostPrep course provides excellent study guides and practice exams, it lacks some interactive content that other courses offer, such as flashcards or mnemonic devices. Some students might prefer a more interactive learning experience, especially when trying to retain difficult information.

2. Limited Supplementary Resources

Unlike other prep courses, BoostPrep doesn’t offer a lot of extra resources like mnemonic devices or flashcards. These additional tools can help with memorization and retention, and some students may find their absence a bit of a drawback, particularly if they’re visual learners or need help with memorizing key terms.

3. No Customizable Quizzes

While BoostPrep offers a great selection of full-length practice exams, no customizable quizzes allow you to focus on specific topics or question types. Some students may find this limiting if they want to focus on weaker areas or practice specific skills.

4. No Immediate Feedback on Practice Tests

Although practice exams are a great way to simulate the real test experience, they don’t provide immediate feedback on your performance. Students may need to go through the questions again manually to understand which areas they need to work on. This lack of real-time feedback can slow down the review process for some learners.

5. May Not Be Ideal for All Learning Styles

The BoostPrep course is structured with comprehensive study guides and practice exams, but it may not be the best fit for every learning style. Some students may prefer a more hands-on or interactive approach, while others may find the straightforward nature of the material to be too rigid.

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General Exam Information

The HESI A2 exam, also known as the Health Education Systems, Inc. Admission Assessment, is an entrance exam used by nursing schools to determine if applicants have the foundational knowledge and skills needed to succeed in a nursing program. This test is important because it helps schools evaluate whether you are ready for the rigorous coursework that comes with becoming a nurse. While the format of the exam can slightly differ depending on the nursing school, there are five main areas you’ll be tested on:

1. Reading Comprehension

This section evaluates your ability to understand and analyze written passages. You’ll be given a short passage and several questions about the content. The goal is to assess your ability to draw conclusions, make inferences, and identify key points within a text. Strong reading comprehension skills are critical for nursing because you’ll need to process much-written information, such as patient charts, medical literature, and care plans.

What to expect:

• Questions that test your understanding of the main idea, purpose, and details of the passage.
• Inference questions that ask you to go beyond the text and make logical conclusions.

Study Tips:

• Practice reading a variety of texts, including medical articles, and summarize the key ideas.
• Focus on understanding how to identify the author’s purpose and supporting details in a passage.

2. Grammar

In this section, you’ll be tested on your understanding of grammar rules and your ability to apply them correctly in context. This includes subject-verb agreement, punctuation, sentence structure, and word choice. Proper grammar is crucial in nursing because clear and accurate communication is necessary for writing patient records, creating care plans, and communicating with other healthcare professionals.

What to expect:

• Questions that assess your ability to identify and correct errors in sentences.
• Understanding of punctuation, capitalization, and sentence structure.

Study Tips:

• Review grammar rules, especially verb tense, subject-verb agreement, and sentence punctuation.
• Practice rewriting sentences to make them grammatically correct.

3. Vocabulary

This section measures your knowledge of words and their meanings. You will be tested on your ability to use words correctly in context, including medical terminology. A solid vocabulary helps you better understand medical texts and communicate effectively in a healthcare setting.

What to expect:

• Questions that ask you to choose the correct definition of a word based on its usage in a sentence.
• Medical terminology and common terms used in nursing may be included.

Study Tips:

• Build your vocabulary by learning medical terms and their meanings.
• Use flashcards to reinforce word meanings and practice using new words in sentences.

4. Mathematics

The mathematics section assesses your ability to solve basic math problems, including algebra, ratios, conversions, and word problems. Nursing students frequently need to calculate dosages, administer medications, and interpret medical data, so having strong math skills is essential.

What to expect:

• Basic arithmetic (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division).
• Word problems involving ratios, percentages, and algebraic concepts.
• Conversions between different units of measurement (e.g., milliliters to ounces).

Study Tips:

• Practice basic math problems regularly, especially those involving fractions and decimals.
• Work on converting units of measurement and solving word problems.
• Focus on understanding how to apply mathematical concepts in real-world nursing scenarios.

5. Anatomy & Physiology

This section evaluates your knowledge of the human body and its systems, including how they function and interconnect. You’ll be tested on topics such as the circulatory system, respiratory system, digestive system, and more. Understanding anatomy and physiology is crucial for nurses, as it forms the basis for patient care and treating various health conditions.

What to expect:

• Questions about the structure and function of major body systems.
• Basic medical concepts such as cells, tissues, organs, and organ systems.

Study Tips:

• Review key concepts in human anatomy and physiology, focusing on the function of each organ and system.
• Create diagrams to help visualize the body systems and their components.

Additional Information:

Some nursing schools may also administer a personality assessment as part of the application process. This assessment evaluates your traits and preferences, such as your ability to work in teams, handle stress, and approach problem-solving. It does not affect your exam score, but it helps schools determine if you’re a good fit for their nursing program.

The HESI A2 exam is a multiple-choice test that usually takes around four hours to complete. You’ll answer over 300 questions, which are divided into the five subject areas mentioned above. The test is scored on a scale from 750 to 900, with higher scores generally indicating better performance. The score you need to be considered for admission depends on the nursing school you’re applying to, as each program has its own requirements.

How Scores Are Used:

Although the HESI A2 exam is not pass/fail, your score plays a significant role in your application. Higher scores can make you more competitive and increase your chances of acceptance into your desired nursing program. It’s essential to familiarize yourself with the score requirements for each school you’re interested in, as they can vary.

In Summary, The HESI A2 exam is a comprehensive test that assesses a wide range of skills necessary for success in nursing school. By understanding the subjects covered and preparing thoroughly, you’ll be better equipped to perform well and move forward in your nursing career.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the best study strategies for the HESI A2 exam?

To prepare effectively for the HESI A2 exam, the best strategies include creating a study schedule, breaking down topics into manageable sections, and using a variety of study materials. Start by reviewing the key subject areas: reading comprehension, grammar, vocabulary, math, and anatomy/psychology. Incorporating practice questions, flashcards, and video lessons can help reinforce your knowledge. Additionally, timed practice exams can help improve test-taking speed and boost confidence. Don’t forget to review explanations for each practice question to understand where you may have gone wrong.

How long should I study for the HESI A2 exam?

The length of study time varies depending on your familiarity with the material and the specific areas you need to focus on. However, most students recommend studying for about 3-6 weeks prior to the exam. This allows enough time to review each subject in detail, take multiple practice tests, and adjust your study plan based on your progress. Aim to spend 1-2 hours per day and incorporate breaks to avoid burnout. It’s important to pace yourself and make study sessions consistent.

What should I do if I don’t pass the HESI A2 exam?

First, don’t be discouraged! Many students do not pass the HESI A2 on their first attempt. The key is to analyze what went wrong. Review your exam results, identify weak areas, and focus your study efforts on those topics. Most schools allow you to retake the exam after a certain waiting period, usually 60-90 days. Be sure to take advantage of this time by using a targeted study plan to improve on your weak subjects. Use a different set of prep materials or practice questions to diversify your approach.

What’s the difference between HESI A2 prep courses and practice exams?

HESI A2 prep courses generally offer a more comprehensive learning experience. These courses provide in-depth study guides, video lessons, flashcards, and explanations for every topic. Practice exams, on the other hand, are more focused on test simulation. While practice exams can help you get used to the format and timing of the test, prep courses often offer a broader range of learning resources. If you’re looking for thorough preparation, consider using a combination of both: a prep course for content review and practice exams to simulate the actual test.

How do I choose the best HESI A2 prep course for me?

Choosing the best prep course depends on your individual learning style. Some students prefer video lessons and detailed explanations, which are offered in courses like Mometrix and Nursing.com. If you’re a more hands-on learner, Pocket Prep’s mobile practice tests might be better suited to your needs. Consider your budget, the time available for studying, and whether you prefer to study on a computer or mobile device. Many prep courses offer free trials, so you can test out a course before committing.

Is the HESI A2 exam the same everywhere?

While the HESI A2 exam covers standard subjects, some nursing schools may have slightly different versions of the test or additional sections based on their specific requirements. For example, some schools include a personality assessment or additional sections like chemistry. It’s crucial to check with the specific nursing school to confirm what sections and formats they use for the HESI A2. You can also verify any additional materials you should review before taking the exam.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, preparing for the HESI A2 exam requires a combination of smart study techniques, practice, and the right resources. Whether you’re looking for a comprehensive study guide like Mometrix, a mobile-friendly option like PocketPrep, or an all-inclusive prep course like Nursing.com, it’s important to choose a resource that aligns with your study habits and needs. With the right tools and dedication, you can confidently approach the exam and increase your chances of success.

Remember, not every study strategy works the same for everyone. Experiment with different approaches, focus on your weak areas and use practice tests to build your confidence. Whether you’re preparing for the first or second attempt, persistence and targeted preparation will ensure you’re ready to tackle the HESI A2 with confidence and achieve your goal of entering nursing school.