The Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) is a standardized exam that plays a crucial role in the nursing school admission process. Designed by Assessment Technologies Institute (ATI), the TEAS exam evaluates a candidate’s proficiency in reading, math, science, and English language usage—all essential skills for success in a nursing program.

If you are preparing to take your Take My Teas exam, you may feel overwhelmed by the scope of the test. However, with proper preparation, study strategies, and time management, you can increase your chances of achieving a high score. This article provides a detailed guide to help you succeed in your TEAS exam.

Understanding the TEAS Exam Format

Before diving into preparation, it’s important to understand the structure of the take my teas exam. The test consists of 170 multiple-choice questions divided into four sections:

1. Reading (45 Questions – 55 Minutes)

• Key Ideas and Details
• Craft and Structure
• Integration of Knowledge and Ideas

2. Mathematics (38 Questions – 57 Minutes)

• Numbers and Algebra
• Measurement and Data

3. Science (50 Questions – 60 Minutes)

• Human Anatomy and Physiology
• Life and Physical Sciences
• Scientific Reasoning

4. English and Language Usage (37 Questions – 37 Minutes)

• Conventions of Standard English
• Knowledge of Language
• Vocabulary Acquisition

The total test duration is 209 minutes (3 hours and 29 minutes), with no scheduled breaks. This means time management is critical.

How to Prepare for the TEAS Exam

1. Create a Study Plan

A structured study plan is essential for effective preparation. Consider the following steps:

• Assess Your Strengths and Weaknesses: Take a diagnostic test to identify areas where you need improvement.
• Set a Study Schedule: Dedicate a few hours each day to studying different subjects rather than cramming all at once.
• Break Down the Content: Study one subject at a time and gradually move to more complex topics.

2. Use High-Quality Study Materials

Choosing the right study materials can make a huge difference in your preparation. Recommended resources include:

• ATI TEAS Study Guide (official prep book from ATI)
• Online Practice Tests (offered by ATI and other reputable sources)
• Flashcards for Vocabulary and Math Formulas
• TEAS Prep Apps (interactive quizzes and study tools)

3. Take Practice Tests Regularly

One of the best ways to prepare for the TEAS exam is by taking full-length practice tests under timed conditions. This helps you:

• Get familiar with the test format
• Improve your time management skills
• Identify weak areas that need more attention

4. Focus on Key Subject Areas

Reading Section Strategies

• Practice reading comprehension by summarizing passages.
• Identify main ideas, supporting details, and author’s purpose.
• Improve your ability to interpret graphs, charts, and written data.

Mathematics Section Strategies

• Master basic arithmetic operations, algebra, and percentages.
• Memorize essential formulas for area, perimeter, and volume.
• Solve practice problems daily to increase accuracy and speed.

Science Section Strategies

• Focus on human anatomy and physiology, as it makes up the majority of the science questions.
• Understand chemical and biological concepts related to healthcare.
• Develop scientific reasoning skills by interpreting experiments and data.

English and Language Usage Strategies

• Review basic grammar rules, sentence structure, and punctuation.
• Expand your vocabulary by learning medical and academic terms.
• Practice identifying grammatical errors and improving sentence clarity.

Test-Taking Strategies for the TEAS Exam

1. Arrive Prepared on Exam Day

• Get a good night’s sleep before the test.
• Eat a healthy breakfast to stay energized.
• Bring the required photo ID and admission ticket.

2. Manage Your Time Effectively

• Don’t spend too much time on a single question. Move on and return later if necessary.
• Keep an eye on the exam timer to ensure you complete all sections.
• Answer every question—even if you're unsure, eliminate wrong answers and make an educated guess.

3. Read Questions Carefully

• Pay attention to keywords in questions, especially in the reading and science sections.
• Look for trick words like "except," "not," or "best," which can change the meaning of a question.

4. Stay Calm and Focused

• Take deep breaths if you start feeling overwhelmed.
• If stuck, skip the question and return later with a fresh perspective.
• Maintain a positive mindset—confidence can improve performance!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Procrastinating on Studying

Waiting until the last minute to prepare can lead to stress and lower scores. Start studying at least 6-8 weeks before your exam date.

2. Not Practicing with Timed Tests

Many test-takers struggle with time management. Practicing under real exam conditions can help you improve your pacing.

3. Ignoring Weak Subjects

Don’t focus only on the subjects you enjoy. Strengthen your weak areas to improve your overall score.

4. Overthinking Answers

Your first instinct is often correct. Avoid second-guessing yourself unless you have a clear reason to change your answer.

What Happens After the TEAS Exam?

1. Understanding Your Score

The TEAS exam is scored on a scale of 0-100%, with different nursing programs requiring varying minimum scores. Generally:

• Competitive Scores: 75% and above
• Average Scores: 65%-74%
• Low Scores: Below 65%

Your results are available within 48 hours of taking the test, and you can check them through the ATI testing portal.

2. Retaking the Exam

If you don’t achieve your desired score, you can retake the TEAS exam. However, most schools limit the number of attempts per application cycle, so check your school’s policy.

3. Applying to Nursing School

Once you have your TEAS score, submit it to your desired nursing programs. A high TEAS score can strengthen your application and increase your chances of acceptance.

Final Thoughts

The TEAS exam is a critical step in your journey to nursing school, but with proper preparation, strategic studying, and effective test-taking techniques, you can achieve success. By creating a study plan, using high-quality resources, taking practice tests, and managing your time wisely, you can boost your confidence and score well on exam day.

If you're wondering, "How can I take my TEAS exam successfully?", the answer lies in dedication, preparation, and a positive mindset. Stay focused, trust in your abilities, and take the test with confidence!