INVISTA NO SEU SUCESSO:
The USMLE Step 1 exam on June 13th sparked a variety of responses from test-takers, highlighting the unpredictability and challenging nature of the exam. Many found the test to include numerous "low yield" questions, which added to the difficulty. For instance, users noted the unexpected volume of risk factor questions and heart murmur audio clips, expressing frustration over missing easy questions on drug mechanisms of action and biochemistry. Similarly, another users mentioned struggling with time management, particularly in the third block, and lamented the disproportionate representation of certain question types compared to NBME and 120 content.
For those preparing for the Step 1 exam, several resources and strategies were recommended by the Reddit community. Divine Intervention podcasts, particularly episodes 37 and 97, were mentioned as helpful. Active studying and reviewing audio resources for heart murmurs, such as videos from Dirty Medicine, were also suggested. The Mehlman pharmacology deck was brought up in another discussion, with users seeking access to it for focused pharmacology review. Users inquired about the deck's availability, indicating its perceived value among test-takers.
Practical tips included using UWorld for its representative question style and high yield content, as highlighted in discussions comparing it with AMBOSS. Although AMBOSS was praised for its comprehensive library and excellent images, UWorld was deemed more aligned with the actual exam format. For targeted review, combining UWorld with specific topics from AMBOSS was recommended to strengthen weaker areas. Additionally, the importance of consistent review and targeted practice was emphasized to ensure readiness for the exam.
Lastly, for those approaching their exam date, engaging with the latest First Aid edition and thoroughly revising high-yield sections like immunology and biochemistry is crucial. Utilizing NBME practice tests, particularly NBME 30 and 31, along with the free 120, was advised to gauge progress and adjust study strategies effectively in the final preparation stages. By integrating these resources and methodologies, candidates can enhance their readiness and confidence for the USMLE Step 1.
Several users who took the USMLE Step 1 exam on June 13 shared their experiences, revealing common struggles and unexpected content. Many found the exam to be "low yield" with a significant number of risk factor questions and heart murmur audio clips. One user expressed frustration over simple mistakes on questions about drug mechanisms of action and genetic translocations, feeling unprepared for the specific topics covered.
In response to these challenges, users recommended several resources and strategies. Divine Intervention podcasts (episodes 37 and 97) were highlighted as particularly helpful. Additionally, Dirty Medicine's heart murmur video was suggested, though it was noted that interpreting audio questions remains challenging. The discussion underscored the importance of thorough preparation in biochemistry, immunology, and understanding risk factors to better handle the diverse question types encountered on the exam.
A user inquired about the suitability of the Mehlman pharmacology deck for USMLE Step 1 preparation, seeking opinions on its effectiveness. Responses were limited but indicated interest in the resource, with users requesting access to the deck through direct messages.
Although the thread did not provide extensive feedback on the deck's effectiveness, it suggested a community interest in Mehlman’s materials. For comprehensive preparation, it would be advisable to cross-reference this resource with other widely recommended materials to ensure all pharmacological concepts are thoroughly covered.
The discussion focused on the disappearance of test permits on the NBME website and its implications for score release timing. Users observed that permits disappeared a few days after their exam dates, which led them to speculate that scores might be released the following Wednesday. This disappearance usually indicates that the score release is imminent.
Clarification was provided about what a permit is and its significance: when the permit options disappear from the NBME site, it generally means that results will be available soon. This aligns with the weekly score release schedule, typically on Wednesdays. The disappearance of the permit is a reliable indicator for test-takers awaiting their results.
A user sought advice after their Step 1 application was rejected following college verification. The discussion offered practical steps, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that diploma titles and other application details match exactly with official records and databases.
Key recommendations included checking the ECFMG Reference Guide to ensure correct entry of diploma titles and ensuring all documents are accurately formatted and translated if necessary. Contacting the ECFMG for clarification on rejection reasons was also advised. The consensus was that accurate and thorough application details can prevent common issues leading to rejections.
A user asked whether the 2022 edition of First Aid would be sufficient for preparing for the 2023 Step 1 exam. The single response suggested using the latest edition to ensure the most up-to-date information and recommended downloading the PDF from Libgen.
Generally, it is advisable to use the most current edition of First Aid to ensure all content reflects the latest updates and guidelines for the USMLE Step 1 exam. This approach helps to cover any new or revised content that may appear on the exam.
A UK medical student sought advice on preparing for Step 1 within six months, especially given their strong clinical curriculum but weak preclinical knowledge. Recommendations included focusing on foundational resources like Boards and Beyond, Pathoma, and Sketchy, complemented by the Anking deck.
Advice emphasized delaying practice questions initially to focus on solidifying foundational knowledge. This approach involves content review for the first two months, followed by integrating practice questions. This strategy aims to build a robust understanding before tackling intensive practice question phases.
Users discussed high-yield immunology topics for the USMLE Step 1 exam. Suggestions included focusing on hypersensitivity reactions, blood transfusion reactions, transplant rejection, and vaccines.
Recommended resources included the Mehlman PDFs and Pathoma (chapters 1-3). Pixorize was suggested for visual learners. Emphasis was placed on revising cytokines and immune responses, as these are considered high-yield areas that can significantly aid in understanding immunology concepts.
Users shared their study strategies for the dedicated period before Step 1, focusing on whether to prioritize First Aid reads, redoing Qbanks, or NBME exams. Strategies varied, with some users emphasizing the importance of Mehlman documents and UWorld incorrects for those with already decent scores.
The advice stressed the importance of personalizing study plans to fit individual needs, ensuring confidence and readiness for the exam. Users highlighted that personal readiness and confidence in preparation are crucial elements for success on test day.
A user requested tips for revising First Aid (FA) during the dedicated study period. Responses were limited but suggested seeking personalized advice through direct contact.
General advice included thorough revision of First Aid alongside other high-yield resources. Engaging in tutoring or using high-yield PDFs for focused review was also recommended to enhance understanding and retention of key concepts.
The discussion involved whether to revisit First Aid after covering certain topics through other resources like Randy Neil and Dirty Medicine. The consensus was that reviewing First Aid can be beneficial, particularly for biostatistics and ethics, which are heavily tested on Step 1.
Advice included ensuring thorough coverage of bioethics and using First Aid as a complementary resource to reinforce previously studied material. Extra review from First Aid can provide additional reinforcement and clarity on key topics.
Recent test-takers shared their experiences with the types of behavioral, ethics, and risk factor questions encountered on Step 1. Many reported encountering numerous ethics questions, particularly around physician responses and identifying the most pertinent risk factors.
Advice included practicing with UWorld and reviewing Dirty Medicine ethics/communications videos. Test-takers emphasized understanding patient communication trends and using logical reasoning for risk factors. Time management during the exam was also crucial due to the lengthy vignettes.
A user sought advice on the best practice tests to check progress one month before the exam. Recommendations included taking NBME 30, 31, and the Free 120, considered most representative of the actual test.
Advice highlighted focusing on these specific NBME exams closer to the test date while using earlier forms like NBME 28 or 29 for initial assessments. Practicing with these exams provides a realistic gauge of preparedness and helps fine-tune study strategies.
The discussion compared UWorld and Amboss Qbanks for Step 1 preparation. Users acknowledged Amboss for its integrated library and detailed explanations but maintained that UWorld's question style is more representative of the actual exam.
The consensus was that while Amboss is a valuable learning tool, especially for Step 2, UWorld remains the preferred Qbank for Step 1 due to its high yield and similarity to NBME-style questions. Using both resources can complement each other for comprehensive preparation, with Amboss being a better general medicine learning tool and UWorld a superior test prep tool.
A user inquired about the feasibility of taking Level 2, Step 1, and Step 2 within the same month due to residency requirements. Responses suggested that this approach is highly ambitious and potentially unreasonable, especially if basic sciences knowledge has faded.
Advice emphasized prioritizing and scheduling exams based on individual readiness and retention of relevant material. A more spaced-out approach was recommended to ensure adequate preparation for each exam, considering the significant content differences and preparation required for each step.