Ace Your CNA Exam: Top Tips and Resources for Preparation
Becoming a CNA is more than completing training—it’s about passing the certification exam and confidently stepping into your new career. And while the test might seem intimidating, with the right preparation, you can absolutely pass it on your first try.
In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know—from study strategies and what to expect on test day, to practical tips and the best resources. Let’s get you certified and ready to thrive.
What’s on the CNA Exam?
Most CNA exams include two components:
1. The Written (or Oral) Exam
- 60–100 multiple-choice questions
- Covers topics like basic nursing skills, safety, communication, infection control, patient rights, and legal/ethical standards
2. The Skills Test
- You’ll demonstrate 3–6 randomly selected skills in front of an evaluator
- Common examples: handwashing, feeding a patient, transferring with a gait belt, measuring output, and blood pressure
Each state has slightly different requirements, so be sure to check your state’s exam guide.
Step 1: Know Your State’s Requirements
Before you start studying, go to your state’s nursing board or CNA registry. Look for:
- Approved test provider (e.g., Prometric, Pearson VUE)
- List of testable skills
- Exam retake policy
- What ID/documents to bring on exam day
Download your state’s CNA Candidate Handbook and use it as your study foundation.
Step 2: Create a Study Plan That Works for You
A smart study plan breaks the material into daily, digestible chunks.
Sample 3-Week Plan:
Week 1: Focus on infection control, vital signs, safety & emergencies Week 2: Learn documentation, communication, and patient rights Week 3: Drill skills, take practice exams, work on time management
Study 30–60 minutes per day. Use breaks, flashcards, and teach-back methods to reinforce learning.
Step 3: Use the Best Study Resources
Skip the random Google searches. These are the resources your future self will thank you for:
Books:
- CNA Exam Secrets Study Guide (Mometrix)
- CNA Test Prep Book by Apex
Online Tools:
- Union Test Prep (free CNA practice tests)
- CNA Plus Academy (premium plans available)
- Quizlet flashcards
YouTube Channels:
- 4YourCNA
- The Basic Nurse
- RegisteredNurseRN (for related topics)
Step 4: Practice Skills Like You’re Being Graded
The skills test is what most people fail—but it’s also the easiest to prepare for with repetition.
Tips:
- Practice in the mirror or with a family member
- Speak your steps aloud as you perform them
- Create a checklist and grade yourself
- Record and rewatch your performance
Don’t Forget These High-Failure Areas:
- Handwashing (specific sequence is key!)
- Indirect care (closing curtain, knocking, checking bed height)
- Measuring intake/output
You can also set up a mock test with friends or classmates.
Step 5: Take Full-Length Practice Tests
Simulating real test conditions builds mental stamina and confidence. Use:
- Timed online quizzes
- Paper printouts with multiple-choice bubbles
- Scoring sheets for self-review
Track your weak areas and revisit those in your study plan.
Step 6: Learn the Tricks and Traps
Here’s what recent test takers say tripped them up:
- Misreading a question (“not” and “always” matter!)
- Rushing through a skill and missing a critical step
- Forgetting standard precautions (gloves, sanitizing)
- Not stating your name, the patient’s name, or explaining procedures
Make these your checklist. Every point you lose is avoidable.
Step 7: Take Care of Your Body and Brain
A tired, dehydrated, and anxious brain won’t remember anything. In the 48 hours before the test:
- Get solid sleep (yes, even if you’re nervous)
- Drink water and eat light, healthy meals
- Avoid energy drinks or last-minute cramming
- Stretch and move to calm your nervous system
Bring your ID, test confirmation, and required items. Show up early. And breathe.
What If You Don’t Pass the First Time?
It happens—and it’s not the end.
Most states allow 2–3 retakes within a certain timeframe. You’ll typically only have to retake the part you failed.
Use your failure as feedback:
- What went wrong?
- What surprised you?
- What will you do differently next time?
Plenty of incredible CNAs didn’t pass the first time. You will get there.
Real Student Story: One Step at a Time
Sasha, a former CNA student, failed her skills test on the first try—she forgot to lower the bed after transferring the patient. She was crushed.
But she regrouped, practiced daily for a week, and passed her second attempt flawlessly.
Now? She works in a pediatric unit and trains other new hires.
Failure isn’t the opposite of success—it’s part of it.
Extra Tips from CNA Instructors
We spoke to real instructors. Here’s their advice:
- “Focus on the patient—not just the task.”
- “Act like you’re already working. That’s how you pass.”
- “Visualize success. Your mindset makes a difference.”
- “Get your rhythm. Every skill has a rhythm—practice until it flows.”
Final Thoughts
Passing your CNA exam isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being prepared, focused, and confident.
You’ve already completed training. You’ve already shown up for the hard work. Now all that’s left is to trust yourself.
Review your steps. Take your time. And remember: you’re capable of more than you think.
Your healthcare journey begins the moment you pass this test—and it only gets better from here.
Explore More CNA Resources and Training Tools
Up next: Want to know where this career path can take you? Read “Advancing Your CNA Career: Opportunities Beyond the Basics” to plan your next move.
