How to Study for the AANP or ANCC Exam Without Burning Out

Real Talk from a Certified Nurse Practitioner

By Wes Clayton, MSN, FNP-BC
Founder of Next-NP: The Affordable, All-in-One NP Board Review

Studying for your NP boards can feel like a second full-time job—on top of your actual full-time job. Between family, work, and life responsibilities, burnout is real. But it doesn’t have to be inevitable.

Here are some proven ways to stay focused, energized, and balanced as you prep for the AANP or ANCC exam:

1. Create a Study Routine That Works for YOU

Don’t just copy someone else’s study schedule—build one that fits your lifestyle. Maybe you’re a morning person who can squeeze in 30 minutes before work, or a night owl who prefers weekend marathons.

✅ Pro tip: Aim for 5 focused study days a week, and include active review techniques like practice questions and teaching back content to yourself.

2. Break It Down Into Bite-Sized Goals

Big goals = overwhelm. Break your study timeline into weekly chunks. Focus on one topic at a time (e.g., cardiology, endocrine, pharm).

✅ Pro tip: Use checklists to track your progress—crossing things off feels good and helps you stay motivated.

3. Schedule Breaks and Self-Care

It sounds counterproductive, but rest is critical for retention. Walks, naps, and time with family actually help your brain process and store new information.

✅ Pro tip: Try the Pomodoro Technique (study 25 minutes, break 5) to stay sharp.

4. Use One High-Quality Resource

Too many resources = burnout and confusion. Choose ONE comprehensive review course and stick with it. (Spoiler: we built Next-NP to be that one.)

Bottom Line: Your health matters as much as your study score. Prep smart, rest well, and trust the process. You've got this.