INVISTA NO SEU SUCESSO:
Navigating the complexities of USMLE Step 1 preparation can be daunting, but Reddit users have compiled an invaluable list of resources and strategies that can significantly aid in the process. Essential resources mentioned include the NBME tests, specifically tests 21-31, with an emphasis on completing all and reviewing the repeated picture questions. UWorld is highlighted as a critical tool, recommending thorough completion and review of incorrect and unused questions. Additionally, leveraging Anki for efficient recall and retention is advised. For biostatistics and risk factor questions, special attention is necessary, given their prevalence and ease of scoring.
Maintaining mental and physical well-being is also crucial during preparation. Redditors suggest practicing good sleep hygiene, which includes establishing a relaxing bedtime routine devoid of electronics and considering a low dose of melatonin. Addressing underlying sleep issues through meditation or mindfulness is recommended to enhance overall well-being. Mental health tips emphasize the importance of confidence and belief in one's preparation, as anxiety can hinder performance. Furthermore, users share practical advice on rescheduling exams through Prometric, highlighting the potential costs and steps to extend eligibility periods if needed.
For those concerned about ethics questions, various resources are suggested to ensure thorough preparation. While the Ethics 100 Cases by Conrad Fischer is recommended by some, others find Dirty Medicine videos and Mehlman’s ethics PDF to be sufficient. The consensus suggests that First Aid, though valuable, may be weak in ethics coverage. Redditors also provide insights into the financial aspect of the exam, noting the $1000 fee for Step 1 and an additional $195 for international test-takers. This collective wisdom from the Reddit community offers a robust framework for tackling the USMLE Step 1, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive preparation, mental health maintenance, and strategic planning.
Thought for sure I failed...but passed somehow 🥂 PASSED: Write-up!
This user shared their intense experience preparing for and taking the Step 1 exam. They struggled with practice tests, scoring below 70 on all their attempts. Their study methods included incomplete usage of UWorld and USMLERx, and they felt unprepared for the real exam, especially with long question stems and risk factor questions. Despite pushing the exam date multiple times and feeling defeated after the test, they managed to pass.
The user emphasizes the importance of doing all the NBMEs and practicing under timed conditions. They recommend focusing on biostatistics, reviewing missed UWorld questions, and knowing risk factors. They also suggest reviewing NBME pictures due to repeated use in exams and completing both Free 120 tests. Finally, the user reassures those who fail that it does not define their ability to serve patients.
Is iwa2.ecfmg and oasis2.ecfmg down right now ???
This post inquired about the accessibility of ECFMG's IWA and OASIS websites. Users confirmed that they were also experiencing difficulties accessing the sites.
The issue seemed to be temporary as another user confirmed that the sites were back up shortly afterward. It's always useful to check with others if a technical issue arises, as it could be a widespread problem rather than a personal one.
The user is struggling with insomnia in the lead-up to their Step 1 exam, despite attempts to regulate their sleep schedule. They've been setting alarms and trying to sleep earlier but end up exhausted from inadequate rest.
Commenters suggested various strategies, such as meditation, mindfulness, and consulting a physician if the issue persists. Other tips included practicing good sleep hygiene, avoiding electronics before bed, and considering a melatonin supplement. Smaller adjustments to the sleep schedule and avoiding late-day stimulants were also recommended.
This user is feeling anxious about their upcoming Step 1 exam despite decent practice scores. They shared their NBME scores, which ranged from 65% to 75%, and a Free 120 score of 74%.
Commenters provided encouragement, emphasizing confidence and calmness. They noted that scores around 60-65% typically indicate readiness for the exam. The user was advised to stay positive, believe in their preparation, and take comfort in their consistent performance across assessments.
How much does it cost to take step 1?
A user asked about the cost of taking the Step 1 exam, noting that the website indicated a fee of $1000.
A commenter clarified that the Step 1 exam costs $1000, with an additional $195 fee for international locations outside the US. The original poster was surprised by the high cost and concerned about the financial implications of potentially failing and having to retake the exam.
A user is worried about their low GPA from the first three years of their MBBS program and how it might affect their chances of securing a residency in the US. They are entering their fourth year and want to know if their GPA will significantly impact their residency applications in the US, UK, and Australia.
A commenter reassured the user that GPA is not a major factor in residency applications, emphasizing that other aspects such as USMLE scores, clinical experience, and letters of recommendation are more important. This highlights that while academic performance is considered, it is not the sole determinant in residency selection.
Is ecfmg server down due to microsoft crisis?
A user queried if the ECFMG server was down due to a Microsoft crisis.
A response indicated that the downtime was due to maintenance, not related to any crisis. This emphasizes the importance of checking official channels for accurate information regarding server status and maintenance schedules.
A user urgently needed advice on rescheduling their Step 1 exam. They were unsure about the process and wanted to extend their eligibility period. They attempted to contact Prometric but faced difficulties due to the weekend.
A commenter advised checking the eligibility period extension and mentioned that while the exam date can be canceled via the Prometric website, reinstating the eligibility period might incur significant fees, especially close to the exam date. The estimated cost for reinstating eligibility was around $352.
A user asked if focusing on specific biochemistry resources like Dirty Medicine, Randy Neil, and UWorld would be sufficient for Step 1, expressing frustration with in-depth details in the subject.
Commenters suggested focusing on high-yield topics such as phenylketonuria, glycogen storage diseases, hyperlipidemias, vitamins, and genetic disorders. They also recommended thoroughly reading the entire biochemistry chapter in First Aid but emphasized that the mentioned resources were helpful and sufficient for a good grasp of high-yield material.
Ethics 100 cases by Conrad Fischer
A user asked if it was necessary to study the Ethics 100 Cases book by Conrad Fischer for Step 1 preparation.
Opinions were divided, with one commenter stating it wasn't necessary, suggesting Dirty Medicine videos instead. Another user emphasized the importance of the book, noting that First Aid is weak in ethics and the exam contains many ethics questions. This indicates that while alternative resources can be beneficial, some find Fischer's book crucial for thorough ethics preparation.
A user, three days away from their Step 1 exam, sought advice on the difficulty of ethics questions compared to practice materials. They had used Mehlman’s ethics PDF and wanted to know its effectiveness.
Commenters shared varied experiences, with some finding the ethics questions on the real exam similar to UWorld and NBME practice questions, and others noting the importance of Dirty Medicine videos for preparation. A user mentioned that Mehlman’s ethics PDF could answer 95% of NBME ethics questions, underscoring its utility in preparation.
Study Materials and Recommendations:
NBME Tests:
Do all the NBMEs, as they contain repeat "style" questions. Specific NBMEs mentioned: 21-31, 25-31.
Review the pictures for NBME as they repeat a lot.
Free 120s (do both).
UWorld:
Complete all questions.
Review missed UWorld questions again, using the tabs for "incorrect" and "unused" questions.
USMLERx:
Complete more than 40%.
Anki:
Use for reviewing questions and concepts.
Biostatistics:
Know your biostatistics questions as they are easy points.
Risk Factors:
Prepare for risk factor questions (user had 9 of these on their exam).
Sleep and Mental Health Tips:
Sleep Hygiene:
Address underlying reasons for sleeplessness, possibly with meditation or mindfulness.
Establish a relaxing bedtime routine with no electronics an hour before bed.
Consider a melatonin supplement (low dose 3mg).
Make smaller adjustments to your sleep schedule.
Mental Health:
Stay confident and calm, and believe in your preparation.
Ethics Preparation:
Resources:
Ethics 100 Cases by Conrad Fischer (recommended by some users but not considered necessary by all).
Dirty Medicine videos.
Mehlman’s ethics PDF.
First Aid (though noted as weak in ethics by some users).
Tips:
Watch Dirty Medicine ethics and communication videos.
Use Mehlman communication Anki.
Exam Rescheduling and Fees:
Prometric:
Cancel through the Prometric website if needed.
Call to reinstate the eligibility period, which can cost around $352.
Eligibility Period:
Ensure you are within the timeframe to extend your eligibility period.
Cost Information:
Step 1 Exam Fee:
$1000 for the exam.
Additional $195 for international locations outside the US.
Additional Advice:
Residency Applications:
GPA is not a major factor in residency applications for the US, UK, or Australia.
Focus more on USMLE scores, clinical experience, and letters of recommendation.