Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX‑RN Examination (9th Edition)
This remains the most comprehensive study guide of the year, featuring over 5,700 practice questions and in-depth content covering core nursing topics alongside clinical reasoning frameworks. It's highly valued for building foundational knowledge and confidence in clinical judgment.
Kaplan NCLEX‑RN Prep Plus
A top choice for learners who prefer strategy-driven preparation. With two full-length practice tests, structured content, NGN-style question breakdowns, and video tutorials, it's tailored for systematic review and clinical decision-making development.
Next Generation NCLEX‑RN Study Guide 2024–2025 (Newstone Test Prep)
Packed with 600 questions and four full-length exams, this guide emphasizes updated content and detailed answer explanations—ideal for those aiming to mirror the latest exam format.
Next Generation NCLEX‑RN Exam Prep 2025 (Victoria Hart)
With ten full-length practice tests, this book supports intensive exam-style practice—a valuable tool for immersive, test-focused study.
NCLEX RN Examination Book 2025–2026 (Jeremy Downs, 8th Edition)
Delivers four full-length tests aligned with the latest NGN exam format. Perfect for learners seeking fresh, exam-level practice in 2025.
Best NCLEX Online Courses & Q‑Bank Platforms in 2025
UWorld NCLEX
"UWorld's questions and rationales were the key to my first-time pass in 85 questions""UWorld… Did all the practice questions and practice tests. …Passed in 85 questions my first time."
Kaplan Nursing (Online Prep Courses)
NURSING.com (formerly NRSNG)
An engaging online review platform offering more than 6,500 NCLEX-style questions, 360 video lessons, flash notes, and a SIMCLEX simulator. Its bold "200% money-back guarantee" and high pass-rate claims make it a compelling all-in-one option.
ATI Nursing Education
Features comprehensive prep with both adaptive quizzes and live review options. Offers international-focused support, a strong question bank, and a predictive assessment tool. Often includes retake access for free if initial attempts don't pass. Ideal for international test-takers.
Nurse Plus Academy
Offers a massive question bank of over 5,000 items with timed and untimed quizzes. Its streamlined interface is ideal for repetition and confidence-building through consistent practice.
Student Voices on Reddit
Reddit discussions are rich with firsthand comparisons and preferences:
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Saunders:
"Saunders Comprehensive Review is the go-to book… thousands of practice questions…"
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Simple Nursing:
"Simple Nursing's engaging videos simplify tough topics like pharmacology…"
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Bootcamp & Archer:
"Bootcamp … was EXACTLY like the NCLEX. … I used the bootcamp 5 week plan.""Focused on content review, rationales, and case studies… Bootcamp does lean more similar to how the NCLEX asked questions."
These testimonials highlight how combining foundational review (like Saunders or video-based content) with high-fidelity practice platforms (like UWorld or Bootcamp) can elevate preparedness.
Comparative Snapshot: Books vs. Courses
| Type | Recommended Resources | Best For... |
|---|---|---|
| Books | Saunders 9th, Kaplan Prep Plus, Newstone, Hart, Downs | Deep content review, NGN-style practice |
| Online Q‑Banks | UWorld, NURSING.com, Nurse Plus Academy | Adaptive questioning, clinical judgment training |
| Interactive Courses | Kaplan online, ATI | Structured instruction with feedback and support |
Final Thoughts
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For thorough content mastery and NGN alignment, go with Saunders 9th Edition or Kaplan Prep Plus.
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For real-test simulation and analytic feedback, UWorld and Bootcamp stand out.
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For visual and flexible learning, platforms like NURSING.com and ATI bring strong value, especially for international learners.
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For focused practice efficiency, Nurse Plus Academy is a solid supplementary tool.

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