The Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) is a critical step for those looking to enter nursing and healthcare programs. In 2025, as the TEAS exam continues to be a key part of the admissions process, students must be well-prepared to succeed. One of the most crucial aspects of TEAS exam preparation is time management. Properly managing your time during the exam can significantly impact your score and reduce stress. This article will explore the importance of time management during the TEAS exam and how to effectively allocate time to each section.

1. Understanding the TEAS Exam Structure

The TEAS exam is divided into four sections: Reading, Mathematics, Science, and English and Language Usage. Each section has a set number of questions and a limited time to complete them. Here is a breakdown of the exam:

• Reading: 53 questions (64 minutes)
• Mathematics: 36 questions (54 minutes)
• Science: 53 questions (63 minutes)
• English and Language Usage: 28 questions (28 minutes)

With this structure in mind, time management becomes essential because you must ensure that you have enough time to answer all the questions in each section without rushing.

2. Why Time Management Matters

Time management during the TEAS exam is essential for several reasons:

• Preventing Rushed Responses: One of the biggest challenges of any standardized test is ensuring that you don’t rush through questions. If you don’t allocate your time wisely, you may feel pressured to hurry through sections, leading to careless mistakes. Proper time management ensures that you can answer all questions thoughtfully without feeling rushed.

• Avoiding Overthinking: Some questions on the TEAS exam may seem tricky, but spending too much time on one question could cost you valuable minutes for others. Time management helps you know when to move on and when to come back to a question if needed.

• Maximizing Your Score: The more efficiently you manage your time, the more likely you are to complete all sections with quality answers. By giving yourself enough time for each question, you can boost your overall score and perform well across all subject areas.

3. Time Allocation Strategies

To perform well on the TEAS exam, it’s crucial to have a plan for how to allocate your time. Here are some strategies to help you manage time effectively during each section of the test:

• Start with a Quick Overview: At the beginning of each section, take a few seconds to skim through the questions. This will help you get a feel for the question types and the time you might need for each one. You can plan to tackle easier questions first, which will help you build momentum.

• Practice Pacing: In your preparation for the exam, practice pacing yourself through full-length practice tests. Time yourself as you work through each section, and aim to finish slightly ahead of schedule. This will help reduce anxiety and ensure you’re not scrambling at the end.

• Use Time Wisely on Multiple-Choice Questions: Multiple-choice questions are often the most time-consuming on the TEAS exam. If you’re stuck on a question, use the process of elimination to narrow down the options quickly. If you’re still unsure, make your best guess and move on.

• Allocate Time for Review: Reserve the last few minutes of each section to review your answers. You may catch small errors or think of a better response. However, make sure that this review time doesn’t eat into your allotted time for answering questions.

4. The Role of Time Management in Reducing Exam Anxiety

Many students experience anxiety during high-stakes exams like the TEAS. One of the best ways to reduce this anxiety is through proper preparation and time management. When you practice time management strategies during your study sessions, you’ll feel more in control on exam day.

A common feeling among students is the fear that they might run out of time. By managing your time well during the exam, you can keep anxiety at bay. Knowing that you have a clear plan for each section will allow you to approach each question with confidence and calm.

5. What to Do If You Feel Overwhelmed

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you may feel overwhelmed during the TEAS exam. In these situations, it may be tempting to consider shortcuts, such as using services that offer to “do my TEAS exam for me.” While professional assistance may be appealing, it’s important to understand that taking shortcuts can undermine your education and long-term success. The TEAS exam is a tool to gauge your readiness for nursing programs, and getting the help you need through proper study techniques, practice, and effective time management will be far more beneficial than relying on someone else to take the test for you.

6. Conclusion

Time management is one of the most important skills you can develop when preparing for the TEAS exam. By understanding the exam structure, using effective time allocation strategies, and staying calm under pressure, you can ensure that you complete the exam successfully without feeling rushed. Remember, while services that claim to “do my TEAS exam for me” might seem like an easy way out, the real key to success is in thorough preparation and smart time management. With practice and patience, you can master the TEAS exam and move one step closer to your nursing career.