This issue of time needed for certification preparation is unique to each exam candidate. That said, one of the biggest pitfalls in study is the failure to put aside the time to prepare. Map out the demands on your time in the first months after completing your NP program, including work hours, family, personal and professional commitments, as well as time you have perhaps set aside for well-deserved vacation. After doing this, set up a schedule of study time, Allot a greater amount of time to areas of knowledge deficit, less to areas of where you only needed to refresh your knowledge base. Make sure you cover all areas listed as possible exam content.
Study groups can be helpful, a terrific vehicle for sharing information and resources.
Alternatively, study groups can yield a poor return on time invested if all members are not similarly committed. Here are some guidelines for forming a successful study group. All group members must treat attendance and participation as they would any other professional commitment, such as work or school. Well in advance, set a schedule and place to meet, as well as a topic for the meeting. Plan a start and end time, with a clear objective for the session.