USMLE Step 1 Study Tips

Leilah Backhus, UI-Chicago, Class of 2007

General study strategy:

-Used Kaplan's computer based lectures and books, and listened to most (85%) of the lectures

-Started to review during practicum, but didn't get really busy until it was over

-Began with what I perceived as my weakest subject and things that were more basic and moved to things that were more integrative (ie it makes sense to do anatomy and physiology before pathology) and supplemented with more familiar books such as BRS Pathology and Physiology.

-Probably did about 50 questions after studying each subject, spent a lot of time reviewing answers to questions whether I got it right or wrong

-Looked at First Aid for the corresponding pneumonics, etc, as I studied each subject

-Used the Jefferson Medical College online suggestions for about how much time to spend on each subject over a 3 week period of time

-For the 10 days prior to the test (after the 3 week subject based review), completely reviewed everything in a systems based review, meaning anatomy, physiology, pathology, and pharmacology for heart, lungs, GI, etc. and then did Q bank questions that day relating only to that system. Spent 1 day per system, then a day on biochem, pharm, and psych stuff.

-Took the NBME offered practice test AT THE TEST SITE I WAS SCHEDULED AT about a week and a half before my scheduled exam. Desensitization to the environment was important.

-Took the Kaplan full length test and really tried to simulate time, breaks, etc, 1 week prior to exam

-Did most of Q bank, not sure how many questions per day, but maybe about 50 per day in the first weeks, and 100-150 per day in the last 2 weeks of studying, again, reviewing their answers

-Looked at First Aid all day the day before the exam

Advice:

-Study hard for Pathophysiology and Pathology in M2 year. That is preparing you for Step 1. Don't start reviewing anatomy instead of studying for those classes.

-Study Pharmacology from an additional resource other than the M2 class. The Kaplan book was helpful.

-Use First Aid while you review for classes in the M2 year. Make notes from class in it.

-Do not buy the Kaplan integrated vignettes. You won't get to them and the questions are too leading and thus too easy and don't simulate the exam questions. If you get through Q bank and the Kaplan full length test, you are in good shape.

-Relax. If you worry about scoring over a certain score, then you'll be too focused on that number and what it means rather than just studying. Aim to do as well as you can without applying a numeric goal, and you may be pleasantly surprized.

-Learn to tune out your classmates. People who are doing really well don't need to advertise.