🧠 Cranial Nerves Made Easy: Mnemonics, Functions & NCLEX Tricks

Whether you’re assessing a stroke patient or doing a head-to-toe, cranial nerve knowledge is essential for NCLEX success. But memorizing all 12 can feel overwhelming.

In this blog, we’ll break it down with:

• A visual KOTC chart

• Easy-to-remember mnemonics

• Functional breakdowns of each nerve

• NCLEX-style applications

🎯 Mnemonics for Cranial Nerves

Cranial Nerve Names (I–XII)

🧠 "Oh, Oh, Oh, To Touch And Feel Very Green Vegetables, AH!"

• I – Olfactory

• II – Optic

• III – Oculomotor

• IV – Trochlear

• V – Trigeminal

• VI – Abducens

• VII – Facial

• VIII – Vestibulocochlear

• IX – Glossopharyngeal

• X – Vagus

• XI – Accessory

• XII – Hypoglossal

Sensory vs Motor vs Both

🎯 "Some Say Marry Money But My Brother Says Big Brains Matter More"

• S – Sensory

• M – Motor

• B – Both

📋 Cranial Nerve Functions Breakdown

Number	Name	Mnemonic Letter	S/M/B
I	Olfactory	Oh	S
II	Optic	Oh	S
III	Oculomotor	Oh	M
IV	Trochlear	To	M
V	Trigeminal	Touch	B
VI	Abducens	And	M
VII	Facial	Feel	B
VIII	Vestibulocochlear	Very	S
IX	Glossopharyngeal	Green	B
X	Vagus	Vegetables	B
XI	Accessory	AH	M
XII	Hypoglossal	!	M

🧪 NCLEX-Style Practice Question

A nurse assesses a patient’s gag reflex and notices asymmetry in uvula movement. Which cranial nerves are likely involved?

• A. VII and VIII

• B. IX and X ✅

• C. V and VI

• D. XI and XII

Rationale: Glossopharyngeal (IX) and Vagus (X) are responsible for gag/swallow reflexes.

🧠 KOTC Study Tips

🎨 Use visuals like the KOTC chart to connect functions with nerve names
📚 Reinforce daily with our mnemonic flashcards
🎯 Practice multiplayer neuro reviews in KOTC mode
📈 Focus on clinical application, not just recall

Explore at kingofthecurve.org/studyscience

🧬 Before You Go…

King of the Curve delivers NCLEX mastery through:

• Adaptive, visual-first learning

• 1000+ illustrated concepts

• Multiplayer study games

• Strategy-based QOTDs

Study smart. Level up. Stay on the curve.

🚀 Call to Action

✅ Try the neuro Qbank mode → kingofthecurve.org/trial-sessions
✅ Grab your free lifetime access → kingofthecurve.org/free-lifetime
✅ Test yourself today → kingofthecurve.org/qotd

---

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• How many hours should I study for the MCAT each day?

  Aim for 4-6 focused hours, ensuring you incorporate breaks to avoid burnout.

• What is the best way to handle test anxiety?

  Practice mindfulness techniques, take practice exams under realistic conditions, and maintain a balanced lifestyle.

• How can I stay motivated during the long application process?

  Set short-term goals, seek support from mentors, and reward yourself for small achievements.

• What role does exercise play in MCAT preparation?

  Regular exercise improves focus, reduces stress, and enhances overall mental clarity.

• How does King of the Curve help with MCAT preparation?

  KOTC offers personalized learning tools, gamification features, and adaptive question banks to help students stay on track without burnout.