NGN Scoring Criteria: What You Need to Know

The Next Generation NCLEX (NGN) exam uses advanced scoring methods to assess nursing skills, focusing on clinical judgment and decision-making. Here’s a quick summary of the key points:

• Scoring Methods:
  • 0/1 Scoring: Full credit for correct answers; no partial credit.
  • +/- Scoring: Partial credit for correct selections; deductions for incorrect ones.
  • Rationale Scoring: Points for understanding cause-and-effect relationships.
• Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT): Adjusts question difficulty based on performance, covering 70-135 scored questions and 15 pretest items.
• Time Limit: 5 hours to complete the exam.
• Question Types:
  • Scenario-Based Questions: Use rationale scoring for case studies.
  • Stand-Alone Questions: Include select-all-that-apply, matrix grids, drag-and-drop, and bow-tie formats.

Quick Tips for Success:

1. Practice NGN-style questions to get comfortable with the format.
2. Focus on critical thinking and understanding clinical scenarios.
3. Use elimination strategies to narrow down answers.

Understanding how the scoring works and preparing strategically can boost your chances of passing.

All About Scoring on the Next Generation NCLEX (NGN)

Overview of the NGN Scoring System

The Next Generation NCLEX (NGN) scoring system introduces a more detailed way to evaluate nursing skills. Unlike the older NCLEX format, which used simple right-or-wrong scoring, the NGN focuses on assessing clinical decision-making in a more practical and realistic way.

How Partial Credit Works in NGN Scoring

Partial credit scoring allows for a more accurate evaluation of clinical judgment by recognizing that there can be multiple correct approaches to a problem ^[4].

• Dyad questions:
  • 1 point for both correct responses
  • 0 points if one or both responses are incorrect
• Triad questions:
  • 2 points for identifying all correct relationships
  • 1 point for recognizing one cause and one effect
  • 0 points for incomplete or incorrect answers ^[4]

Three Scoring Methods Used in NGN Questions

Scoring Method	Where It’s Used	How It Works
0/1 Scoring	Traditional multiple-choice and numeric questions	Earn 1 point for a correct answer; no penalty for incorrect answers
+/- Scoring	Select-all-that-apply questions	Gain 1 point for each correct selection and lose 1 point for incorrect ones
Rationale Scoring	Case studies and clinical scenarios	Points are awarded based on understanding cause-and-effect relationships

These methods go beyond testing theoretical knowledge. They aim to reflect the complex decision-making skills nurses need in practice.

Role of Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT) in Scoring

The NGN uses Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT) across 70-135 scored items ^[4]. CAT adjusts the difficulty of questions based on how well the test-taker performs. This ensures that each question is appropriately challenging, providing a more accurate measurement of clinical judgment skills.

Together, CAT and the NGN scoring methods create a system that better captures the critical thinking and decision-making required in modern nursing. Next, we’ll dive into how these scoring methods apply to specific NGN question types.

How NGN Question Types Are Scored

The Next Generation NCLEX (NGN) uses specific scoring methods tailored to each question type, ensuring a thorough evaluation of clinical judgment skills.

Scoring for Scenario-Based Questions and Case Studies

Scenario-based questions rely on rationale scoring to measure how effectively candidates link clinical findings to appropriate interventions. The NGN exam includes three case studies, totaling 18 items, which make up 21% of the minimum-length test ^[4].

Question Component	Scoring Method	Point Distribution
Case Study Analysis	Clinical Judgment	2 points for full understanding
Cause-Effect Recognition	Rationale-Based	1 point for partial recognition
Intervention Selection	0/1 Scoring	0 points for incorrect analysis

Scoring for Stand-Alone Question Types

Stand-alone questions use a mix of scoring methods:

• Matrix Grid Questions: These use +/- scoring (refer to earlier sections for details).
• Drag-and-Drop Questions and Bow-Tie Questions: Drag-and-drop questions follow a 0/1 scoring system, awarding points only for entirely correct answers. Bow-tie questions, similar to case studies, use rationale scoring to evaluate cause-and-effect reasoning ^[4].

These methods are applied dynamically during the exam.

Examples of NGN Scoring in Action

The NGN’s adaptive testing system adjusts questions based on the candidate’s performance ^[4]. For instance, if a candidate correctly identifies a condition’s cause but only partially selects the right interventions, they receive partial credit. Full credit is awarded only when both the cause and interventions are accurate ^[1][4].

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Tips for Scoring Well on the NGN Exam

Doing well on the NGN exam means understanding how the scoring works and using smart strategies to boost your performance. Here’s what you need to know:

How to Handle Complex Question Types

For complex questions, start by reading the clinical scenario twice. The first read gives you the big picture, while the second focuses on the details. Use the elimination method to weed out unclear options, and aim to spend 1-2 minutes per question. This steady pace keeps you from feeling overwhelmed and ensures you carefully analyze each scenario.

Practicing with NGN Question Formats

Consistent practice with NGN-style questions is key to getting comfortable with the scoring system. According to Nurse Cram’s lead instructor:

"Regular practice with NGN-style questions helps students develop pattern recognition and improves their speed in identifying key clinical elements."

Pay attention to how different scoring methods apply, especially for scenario-based questions where partial credit is an option ^[4]. Practicing regularly builds familiarity with the format and boosts confidence in clinical decision-making.

Improving Critical Thinking and Clinical Judgment

The NGN emphasizes critical thinking over rote memorization. To score well, focus on understanding how symptoms, causes, and interventions connect. Review the rationales for both correct and incorrect answers during practice to sharpen your clinical judgment ^[1][4].

Partial credit scoring can work to your advantage. Even if you’re unsure of the full answer, provide your best reasoning. Identifying key elements in complex scenarios can still earn you points ^[4].

With these strategies in mind, you’re ready to explore tools and resources that can take your preparation to the next level.

Study Tools for NGN Exam Preparation

Getting ready for the NGN exam means using resources that align with its updated scoring system, helping you understand the partial-credit approach and clinical judgment evaluation.

Using Nurse Cram NCLEX Exam Review

NurseCram is designed specifically for NGN preparation, offering tools that simulate the exam’s case-based format. Here’s what it provides:

• Scenario-based exercises that closely resemble actual exam case studies ^[2][4].
• Adaptive questions that adjust to your skill level, mimicking the real exam experience.
• Detailed rationales to help you improve clinical judgment.
• Readiness exams to track your progress and identify areas for improvement.

The platform also offers budget-friendly plans with unlimited access to NGN-style questions, rationales, and adaptive practice tools.

Other Tools for NGN Practice

Study Tool Type	Key Features	Best Used For
ATI Testing Platform	Official NGN question types and scoring analytics	Understanding the exam format and scoring system
Digital Flashcards	Mobile-friendly for reviewing concepts	Quick reinforcement of important topics
Online Simulators	Timed practice tests	Developing endurance and pacing strategies

These resources are designed to enhance your understanding of the NGN scoring process while offering practical ways to sharpen critical thinking skills. Combining them with focused, quality practice will prepare you to tackle the exam with confidence.

Conclusion: Key Points for NGN Scoring Success

As you wrap up your preparation, it’s important to understand how the NGN scoring system works and plan your approach accordingly. Success hinges on mastering the scoring methods and preparing with purpose.

The NGN uses a mix of scoring techniques and Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT) to evaluate clinical judgment. Scoring methods like 0/1, +/- , and rationale-based approaches provide a detailed and precise assessment of your skills. Meanwhile, CAT adjusts the difficulty of questions based on your performance, ensuring a tailored evaluation of your abilities ^[2][4].

To perform well, sharpen your clinical judgment skills, manage your time wisely, and apply elimination strategies for challenging questions ^[3]. Resources like NurseCram’s scenario-based exercises and rationales can be incredibly helpful as you get ready.

FAQs

Here are answers to some common questions about NGN scoring to help you understand the basics and get ready for the exam.

How many points do you need to pass the NGN NCLEX?

For the NCLEX-RN, you need a score above 0.00 logits (a statistical measure of ability) to pass. For the NCLEX-PN, the passing score is above -0.18 logits ^[4].

How does scoring work in the NGN NCLEX?

The NGN exam uses 0/1, +/-, and rationale scoring methods to assess clinical judgment. Partial credit is awarded for certain types of questions. The test includes 70-135 scored items along with 15 pretest items and can take up to 5 hours to finish ^[4]. This structure ensures a comprehensive evaluation of a candidate’s clinical decision-making skills.

While understanding these scoring methods is important, combining this knowledge with focused practice will boost your chances of passing. You can find more details about scoring in the "Three Scoring Methods Used in NGN Questions" section above.

Related posts

• What Is Item Progression in NGN NCLEX?
• Top 7 NGN Question Types for Decision-Making
• Ultimate Guide to NGN NCLEX Question Formats
• How NGN Scenario Questions Are Scored