ATI’s Comprehensive Predictor has an almost intimidating sounding name, but don’t let the name scare you off. This exam is an ally for you, guiding you through studying and preparation and on to NCLEX success. Here’s the lowdown.
What is the Comprehensive Predictor?
The Comprehensive Predictor is a three-hour, 180 item, proctored test designed to assess your readiness to sit for the NCLEX exam. All of the questions asked on the Comprehensive Predictor align to your version of the NCLEX (PN or RN), helping you get a better sense of the questions you’ll be answering when you’re sitting for the real thing.
How does the Comprehensive Predictor work?
The Comprehensive Predictor is given at the end of a nursing program, after you’ve taken all of your courses and completed ATI’s Content Mastery or Concept-Based Assessments. The questions span all the NCLEX categories, allowing you to get a sample of each. Once you finish the Comprehensive Predictor, you can view the percentage correct in each content topic, category, and outcome. The process is designed to help you focus your studies on the areas where you most need it.
Why do students take the Comprehensive Predictor?
Taking the Comprehensive Predictor allows you to gain a clearer understanding and mastery of core principles and, importantly, gives you a prediction of how likely you are to pass the NCLEX. If you’re prone to test anxiety, the Comprehensive Predictor can be reassuring: You’ll get a detailed view into the content areas in which you’re weakest so you can make a concerted effort to study those areas before you sit for the NCLEX, and you’ll also get a detailed view into your strengths, so you know when you can feel most confident going in.
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How do you gauge accuracy?
ATI’s Assessment Sciences team consists of psychometricians who spend their days building ATI exams (including the Comprehensive Predictor) based on a strict set of scientific principles and research. Each test question goes through an extensive validation process. We examine validity through:
- statistical relationships of test scores with other related measures
- statistical relationships between parts of the test
- statistical indicators of quality and fairness of test questions
- expert judgment regarding the extent to which the test content matches the curriculum or job requirement
How soon before taking the NCLEX should someone take the Comprehensive Predictor?
You’ll most likely take this test during your Capstone, which is the last semester of nursing school. Ideally, this is the last exam you’ll take before graduation. This is our recommended approach, though not every institution does it this way. Your instructor will be able to provide you with the most accurate timeframe for your program.
Yes, the Comprehensive Predictor is a test, but really, it’s an opportunity: It’s your best opportunity to narrow down your strengths and weaknesses as you prep for the NCLEX. By taking it, you won’t be flying blind and trying to study all possible content in the weeks leading up to the NCLEX. You’ve got to like a test that helps you study less, right?
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