Hesi Admission Assessment Exam Review

Conquer the HESI Admission Assessment Exam: A Comprehensive Review

The HESI Admission Assessment Exam is a crucial hurdle for many aspiring healthcare professionals. This comprehensive guide provides a detailed review of the exam, covering key content areas, effective study strategies, and valuable tips to help you succeed. Understanding the exam's structure and mastering the tested material are key to achieving a high score and securing your place in your chosen healthcare program. This in-depth review will equip you with the knowledge and confidence you need to excel on test day.

Understanding the HESI A2 Exam: Structure and Content

The HESI A2 exam is a standardized test designed to evaluate a prospective student's readiness for a healthcare program. The specific content and weighting can vary slightly depending on the individual program, so it's crucial to check with your target school for the most up-to-date information. However, the exam generally includes the following sections:

1. Reading Comprehension:

This section assesses your ability to understand and interpret written passages. Expect a variety of passage types, including scientific articles, narratives, and informational texts. Key skills tested include:

• Identifying the main idea: Understanding the central theme or purpose of the passage.
• Comprehending details: Grasping specific facts and information presented in the text.
• Inferring meaning: Drawing conclusions based on the information provided.
• Analyzing vocabulary: Understanding the meaning of words and phrases within the context of the passage.

Strategy: Practice reading comprehension passages regularly. Focus on active reading techniques, such as underlining key phrases and summarizing paragraphs.

2. Mathematics:

This section tests your basic mathematical skills, covering topics such as:

• Arithmetic: Operations with whole numbers, fractions, decimals, and percentages.
• Algebra: Solving equations and inequalities, working with exponents and radicals.
• Geometry: Calculating areas, volumes, and perimeters of basic shapes.
• Data analysis: Interpreting graphs, charts, and tables.

Strategy: Review fundamental mathematical concepts. Practice solving a wide variety of problem types to build your confidence and speed.

3. Grammar:

This section evaluates your knowledge of English grammar rules, including:

• Sentence structure: Identifying subjects, verbs, and objects.
• Verb tenses: Using correct verb forms.
• Punctuation: Applying correct punctuation marks.
• Word usage: Choosing appropriate words and avoiding common grammatical errors.

Strategy: Brush up on grammar rules. Practice identifying and correcting grammatical errors in sentences and paragraphs.

4. Vocabulary and General Knowledge:

This section assesses your vocabulary and general knowledge. It might include questions on:

• Synonyms and antonyms: Identifying words with similar or opposite meanings.
• Analogies: Recognizing relationships between words.
• General knowledge: Questions on various topics, such as science, history, and current events.

Strategy: Expand your vocabulary by reading widely and using a vocabulary-building app. Familiarize yourself with a broad range of general knowledge topics.

5. Anatomy and Physiology (Often Included):

Many HESI A2 exams include a section on anatomy and physiology. This section assesses your understanding of:

• Basic body systems: Cardiovascular, respiratory, nervous, digestive, etc.
• Organ function: Understanding how different organs work within their respective systems.
• Physiological processes: Knowing the mechanisms behind various bodily functions.

Strategy: Review fundamental anatomy and physiology concepts. Utilize diagrams and flashcards to aid memorization.

Effective Study Strategies for HESI A2 Success

Preparing for the HESI A2 exam requires a structured and consistent approach. Here are some effective study strategies:

1. Create a Study Schedule:

Develop a realistic study schedule that allocates sufficient time for each content area. Consistency is key; short, regular study sessions are more effective than cramming.

2. Utilize Official HESI Resources:

Acquire official HESI practice tests and study materials. These resources will provide you with the most accurate representation of the actual exam.

3. Practice, Practice, Practice:

Take numerous practice tests to familiarize yourself with the exam format and identify your areas of weakness. Analyze your mistakes and focus on improving those areas.

4. Focus on Weak Areas:

Once you've identified your weaknesses through practice tests, dedicate extra time to mastering those specific concepts. Don't neglect your strengths, but prioritize improving your weaker areas.

5. Active Recall Techniques:

Use active recall techniques such as flashcards and self-testing to improve memory retention. These methods force your brain to actively retrieve information, strengthening the neural pathways associated with that information.

6. Join Study Groups (Optional):

Collaborating with other students can be beneficial. Discussing concepts and practicing together can enhance understanding and motivation.

7. Seek Clarification When Needed:

Don't hesitate to seek help from instructors, tutors, or classmates if you encounter concepts you don't understand. Clearing up any confusion early on will prevent larger problems later.

8. Get Sufficient Rest and Nutrition:

Prioritize sufficient sleep and a healthy diet leading up to the exam. A well-rested and nourished mind is essential for optimal performance.

9. Manage Test Anxiety:

Practice relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, to manage test anxiety. A calm and focused mind is crucial for success.

10. Time Management During the Exam:

Practice time management during your study sessions and practice exams. Learn to pace yourself effectively to ensure you can complete the exam within the allotted time. This is especially important for sections like Reading Comprehension and Mathematics.

Detailed Content Review: Specific Subjects and Tips

Let's delve deeper into the content areas often included in the HESI A2 exam, providing more specific tips and strategies.

Mathematics: A Detailed Look

Beyond the general overview, let's dissect the mathematical components:

• Fractions, Decimals, and Percentages: Master conversions between these forms. Practice order of operations (PEMDAS/BODMAS) diligently. Understand how to solve problems involving ratios and proportions.
• Algebra: Focus on solving linear equations and inequalities. Understand how to work with exponents and radicals. Practice graphing linear equations.
• Geometry: Review formulas for calculating area, perimeter, and volume of common shapes (circles, squares, rectangles, triangles, cubes, etc.). Understand the Pythagorean theorem.
• Data Analysis: Practice interpreting various types of graphs (bar graphs, line graphs, pie charts) and tables. Understand how to calculate averages (mean, median, mode).

Pro-Tip: Use visual aids, like diagrams and charts, to understand geometric concepts. Break down complex algebra problems into smaller, manageable steps.

Reading Comprehension: Strategies for Success

Reading comprehension success hinges on efficient reading and critical thinking skills:

• Skimming and Scanning: Before deeply reading, skim the passage to grasp the main idea. Then, scan for specific information related to the questions.
• Identifying Key Phrases: Underline or highlight key words and phrases that help understand the main points and supporting details.
• Context Clues: Utilize context clues within the passage to understand the meanings of unfamiliar words.
• Inference and Deduction: Practice drawing conclusions and making inferences based on the text's implicit information.
• Eliminate Incorrect Answers: Use the process of elimination to narrow down choices and increase your chances of selecting the correct answer.

Pro-Tip: Practice with various types of reading passages, including scientific articles, news reports, and literary excerpts.

Grammar: Mastering the Fundamentals

Grammar requires focused attention to details:

• Parts of Speech: Review the eight parts of speech (nouns, pronouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs, prepositions, conjunctions, interjections).
• Sentence Structure: Understand subject-verb agreement, proper sentence construction (simple, complex, compound), and clause identification.
• Verb Tenses: Master the different verb tenses (past, present, future, perfect) and their correct usage.
• Punctuation: Review the rules of using commas, semicolons, colons, apostrophes, and quotation marks.
• Common Grammatical Errors: Familiarize yourself with common grammatical errors such as subject-verb disagreement, pronoun errors, and misplaced modifiers.

Pro-Tip: Use online grammar checkers to analyze your writing and identify errors. Read examples of grammatically correct sentences to reinforce good writing habits.

Anatomy and Physiology: A System-by-System Approach

If your HESI A2 exam includes anatomy and physiology, adopt a systematic approach:

• Cardiovascular System: Understand the heart's structure and function, blood circulation, and major blood vessels.
• Respiratory System: Learn about the process of breathing, gas exchange in the lungs, and the structure of the respiratory tract.
• Nervous System: Study the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and neurotransmitters, as well as basic functions like reflexes and sensory perception.
• Digestive System: Understand the process of digestion, absorption of nutrients, and the structure of the digestive organs.
• Musculoskeletal System: Learn about the structure and function of bones, muscles, and joints, including types of muscle tissue and skeletal movements.
• Endocrine System: Understand the role of hormones in regulating various bodily functions.

Pro-Tip: Use diagrams and flashcards to visualize and remember the structures and functions of various body systems. Relate different systems to one another to improve your understanding of the interconnectedness of bodily functions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How long is the HESI A2 exam?

A: The length varies depending on the specific sections included. However, plan for a substantial time commitment.

Q: What type of calculator can I use?

A: Check with your testing center for their specific calculator policy. Some allow basic calculators; others may prohibit calculators entirely.

Q: What is a passing score?

A: The passing score differs by institution and program. Check with your specific school for their requirements.

Q: Can I retake the HESI A2?

A: Policies regarding retaking the exam vary. Consult your school's admission guidelines.

Q: What if I’m struggling with a particular subject?

A: Don't hesitate to seek extra help! Consider tutoring, online resources, or study groups to bolster your understanding.

Conclusion: Your Path to HESI A2 Success

The HESI Admission Assessment Exam is a significant milestone on your path to a healthcare career. By understanding the exam's structure, employing effective study strategies, and dedicating sufficient time and effort to preparation, you can confidently approach the exam and achieve a high score. Remember to stay organized, practice consistently, and maintain a positive attitude. Your dedication and perseverance will pay off! Good luck!