Top 10 Most Missed Topics on the ATI TEAS Exam

Top 10 Most Missed Topics on the ATI TEAS Exam

Preparing for the ATI TEAS exam? Focusing your study efforts on the most challenging topics can help you maximize your score. At Cambridge College of Healthcare & Technology, we rely on ATI to help students level up their skills and thoroughly prepare for success in our nursing programs. Based on official scoring data from ATI, here are the top missed topics on the ATI TEAS, along with the corresponding sections in the Official ATI TEAS Study Guide. These areas are key to mastering the exam and ensuring your readiness for the healthcare field.

Top 10 Most Missed Topic Areas on the ATI TEAS & Corresponding Study Guide Sections

  1. Chemistry: Describe Chemical Reactions
    Unit 3 Science, S.3.3 – Describe Chemical Reactions
    • Explain the role of valence electrons in chemical reactivity
    • Define covalent and ionic bonds
    • Identify reactants and products in a chemical reaction
    • Balance chemical reactions
    • Understand the mole concept in relation to quantities in chemical reactions
  2. Anatomy: Male and Female Reproductive Systems
    Unit 3 Science, S.1.7 – Describe the Anatomy and Physiology of the Male and Female Reproductive System
    • Identify structures of the reproductive system
    • Explain the functions of the reproductive system
    • Describe the relationship between the reproductive system and the endocrine system
  3. Anatomy: Nervous System
    Unit 3 Science, S.1.5 – Describe the Anatomy and Physiology of the Nervous System
    • Distinguish between the central and peripheral nervous system
    • Understand the structure of a neuron
    • Explain the functions of the nervous system
  4. Math: Calculate Geometric Quantities
    Unit 2 Math, M.2.4 – Calculate Geometric Quantities
    • Apply area, perimeter, and volume formulas
    • Understand geometric relationships and properties
    • Use formulas to solve word problems
  5. Math: Convert Within and Between Standard and Metric Systems
    Unit 2 Math, M.2.5 – Convert Within and Between Standard and Metric Systems
    • Convert between standard/customary/household systems (e.g., quarts to gallons, teaspoons to tablespoons)
    • Convert common metric-to-standard measurements (mL to L, mcg to mg, cm to m)
    • Use conversion factors to convert between standard and metric systems (fluid oz to mL, lb to kg, Fahrenheit to Celsius)
  6. Chemistry: Understand the Properties of Solutions
    Unit 3 Science, S.3.5 – Understanding Properties of Solutions
    • Describe the polarity of water and its role as a solvent
    • Distinguish between solvents and solutes
    • Explain concentration and dilution in solutions
    • Understand osmosis, diffusion, and active/passive transport
  7. English: Using Language and Vocabulary to Express Ideas in Writing
    Unit 4 English and Language Usage, E.3.1 – Apply Basic Knowledge of the Writing Process
    • Identify steps to complete a writing task
    • Recognize when a citation is needed
    • Use vocabulary effectively to communicate ideas clearly
  8. Scientific Reasoning: Predict Relationships Among Events, Objects, and Processes
    Unit 3 Science, S.4.3 – Predict Relationships Among Events, Objects, and Processes
    • Compare the magnitude (e.g., size) of events, objects, and processes
    • Determine causal relationships (e.g., smoking and high blood pressure)
    • Identify the logical order or sequence of events in a process
  9. Biology: Describe the Role of Microorganisms in Disease
    Unit 3 Science, S.2.5 – Describe the Role of Microorganisms in Disease
    • Define microorganisms and their importance in disease
    • Differentiate between pathogens (viruses, bacteria, protozoans, fungi, animals)
    • Understand the distinction between infectious and non-infectious diseases
    • Identify common infectious diseases and the types of microscopes used for research
  10. Anatomy: Endocrine System
    Unit 3 Science, S.1.9 – Describe the Anatomy and Physiology of the Endocrine System
  • Identify structures and functions of the endocrine system
  • Understand how the endocrine system maintains homeostasis
  • Recognize examples of positive and negative feedback mechanisms
  • Explain the connection between the endocrine and nervous systems
Structure of the ATI TEAS Exam

The ATI TEAS exam is a comprehensive assessment of your preparedness for nursing and allied health programs. At Cambridge College of Healthcare & Technology, we use ATI to help guide our nursing students through effective leveling-up sessions. The exam includes 170 questions, of which 150 are scored and 20 are unscored (used for pre-testing purposes). The total exam time is 209 minutes, divided into the following content areas:

  • Reading: 45 Questions | 55 Minutes (6 unscored)
  • Math: 38 Questions | 57 Minutes (4 unscored)
  • Science: 50 Questions | 60 Minutes (6 unscored)
  • English and Language Usage: 37 Questions | 37 Minutes (4 unscored)
  • Optional 10-Minute Break
Maximize Your Prep with the Official ATI TEAS Study Guide

To ensure you are well-prepared for the ATI TEAS, Cambridge College of Healthcare & Technology recommends utilizing the Official ATI TEAS Study Guide. This guide will help you focus on the key areas listed above, boosting your confidence and readiness as you work toward your nursing career.

Remember, preparation is key! The more you review and understand these topics, the better your chances of excelling on the ATI TEAS and taking the next step in your nursing journey.