Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT)
Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT) is the testing methodology used by the NCLEX-PN and NCLEX-RN, where the computer adjusts the difficulty of each subsequent question based on the candidate's previous answers to determine competency with 95% confidence.
Exam Tip
CAT adapts question difficulty based on your answers. Minimum 85, maximum 150 questions. Stops at 95% confidence. You CANNOT go back to previous questions. More questions does NOT mean you are failing. Focus on each question individually.
What Is Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT)?
CAT is a computer-based testing method that tailors the difficulty of questions to each individual test-taker. Unlike fixed-form exams where every candidate answers the same questions, CAT dynamically selects questions based on how well you are performing.
How CAT Works on the NCLEX-PN
| Step | What Happens |
|---|---|
| 1 | You receive a question at the passing standard difficulty level |
| 2 | If you answer correctly, the next question is slightly harder |
| 3 | If you answer incorrectly, the next question is slightly easier |
| 4 | The computer continuously estimates your ability level |
| 5 | Testing ends when the computer is 95% confident of a pass/fail decision |
NCLEX-PN CAT Rules
| Rule | Detail |
|---|---|
| Minimum questions | 85 |
| Maximum questions | 150 |
| Time limit | 5 hours (includes tutorial and breaks) |
| Confidence level | 95% certainty of pass or fail |
| Passing standard | -0.18 logits (set by NCSBN) |
| Cannot go back | Once answered, you cannot change or review previous questions |
Why the Exam Ends
The computer stops the exam when any of these conditions are met:
| Condition | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 95% confidence reached | Computer is certain you are above or below the passing standard |
| Maximum questions reached | 150 items answered; pass/fail based on last 60 items |
| Time expires | 5-hour limit; pass/fail based on performance to that point |
What CAT Means for Test-Taking
- More questions does NOT necessarily mean you are failing
- The difficulty of the questions matters more than the number
- You cannot skip questions or go back to previous ones
- Every question counts; there is no "warm-up" period
- NGN case study items are also adapted by the CAT algorithm
Exam Alert
Understanding CAT is essential for NCLEX-PN test strategy. The number of questions does not determine pass/fail; the computer's confidence in your ability level does. Do not panic if you receive the minimum (85) or more questions. Each question is independent; focus on the current question only.
Study This Term In
Related Terms
Clinical Judgment
Clinical judgment is the process by which nurses observe, interpret, respond to, and reflect on patient data to make informed decisions about patient care. The NCSBN Clinical Judgment Measurement Model (NCJMM) is the framework used on the NCLEX to evaluate this competency.
Nursing Process
The nursing process is a systematic, five-step problem-solving framework used by nurses to provide patient-centered care: Assessment, Diagnosis, Planning, Implementation, and Evaluation (ADPIE). It is the foundation of all nursing practice and the organizing framework for the NCLEX.
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