INVISTA NO SEU SUCESSO:
The r/step1 subreddit provides a rich pool of strategies, resources, and community advice for Step 1 preparation. Many users focus on leveraging question banks like UWorld, Kaplan, and Amboss, with repeated emphasis on mastering concepts over rote learning. Posts reveal the value of structured study plans, including a mix of first-pass reviews of resources like First Aid, targeted PDF materials such as Mehlman PDFs, and consistent practice through NBME assessments. The community frequently suggests aligning resources to personal weaknesses, using tools like Anki, and reviewing NBME explanations for maximum benefit.
A key theme is the importance of high-yield preparation for challenging topics, particularly in areas like biochemistry, ethics, and renal physiology, which are heavily tested. Recent test-takers share practical advice, highlighting the prominence of long question stems and the benefit of focusing on key frameworks like starvation/fasting vs. fed states, beta oxidation, and biostats formulas. Discussions around NBME scores and their pass probabilities underscore the anxiety surrounding exam readiness, with members advising on when to test versus delay and providing emotional support.
The subreddit also addresses logistical concerns, such as understanding result timelines and permit disappearance processes, as well as offering tailored advice for non-traditional or delayed students returning to preparation. In addition, niche topics like preparing for pediatrics residencies and tools for oral exam prep like the OET illustrate the breadth of guidance available, making r/step1 a collaborative hub for both academic and psychological support.
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The poster, having failed Step 1 twice, is asking whether they should repeat UWorld or switch to other question banks like Kaplan, Amboss, or Medbullets. They are seeking guidance on the best resources to improve their performance.
Comments Analysis: One commenter emphasizes the importance of understanding concepts and suggests sticking with UWorld while working with an accountable study partner. They also inquire about the poster's past preparation and NBME scores, suggesting a diagnostic approach before moving forward.
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An M2 student preparing for Step 1 outlines their study routine, including using Anki, Pathoma, and Amboss, while seeking advice on making connections between topics. They express concern about whether to review materials, practice questions, or explore additional resources like Mehlman sheets.
Comments Analysis: A brief response suggests focusing on NBME high-yield images, implying a targeted review approach to maximize retention of key visual details before dedicated study.
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The poster shares their recent NBME scores (65% and 63%) after completing 85% of UWorld and seeks advice on how to improve before their exam next month.
Comments Analysis: A commenter advises reviewing NBME explanations and targeting weaknesses using Mehlman PDFs. The follow-up response shows gratitude for the specific and actionable advice.
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This thread invites test-takers to share their experiences on the Step 1 exam held on Nov 12th. Responses reveal insights into the exam structure, including long question stems, ethics questions, and specific topics like renal, biochem, and GI.
Comments Analysis: Users discuss timing, question difficulty, and high-yield content such as biochem pathways and ethics. Multiple commenters recommend resources like Mehlman PDFs and UWorld to reinforce weak areas. Others focus on the challenge of identifying experimental questions and coping strategies for uncertainty during the test.
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The poster, who took the exam on Oct 30, inquires about the result release timeline and how to check results. Anxiety about passing is a recurring theme in the discussion.
Comments Analysis: Responses clarify that results are typically emailed and confirm that permit disappearance indicates an upcoming result. The thread also provides moral support as others share similar concerns and experiences.
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After a two-year break, the poster has resumed Step 1 prep with a focus on CVS and plans to rely on UWorld and Anki. They seek advice on whether their two-month timeline is realistic.
Comments Analysis: A single commenter directs the poster to check their inbox, suggesting a private conversation, likely with tailored advice or resources for their situation.
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The poster asks which NBME to take next, having completed NBME 25 and 70% of UWorld, with the exam planned for late November or early December.
Comments Analysis: A concise response suggests starting with NBME 26, likely due to its relevance and representation of exam content.
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The poster expects their Step 1 result soon and seeks clarification about the permit disappearance process.
Comments Analysis: Several commenters explain the significance of permit disappearance and guide others on where to check their results. The discussion reveals anxiety and a collective hope for a passing grade.
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A non-US IMG seeks advice on securing a pediatrics residency, including the steps and competitiveness of the specialty.
Comments Analysis: A detailed response outlines key actions: passing USMLE Steps, excelling in medical school, engaging in research, and securing pediatrics-focused electives. This practical roadmap aligns with residency application priorities.
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The poster asks whether they should do UWorld blocks immediately after studying chapters or after completing a comprehensive review of the syllabus.
Comments Analysis: A commenter directs the poster to check their inbox, indicating a private response with personalized advice.
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The poster is preparing for the OET exam and is seeking a partner to practice the speaking section.
Comments Analysis: A commenter expresses interest and schedules a practice session in two days, showcasing collaborative preparation efforts. Another user proposes additional practice sessions, highlighting the importance of peer support in OET prep.
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An experienced graduate, now a consultant in the UK, offers coaching services for Step 1 and Step 2, highlighting their extensive medical background and successful exam history.
Comments Analysis: No comments are present yet, leaving the post as an open invitation for interested candidates. This type of post may attract responses over time as users seeking mentorship discover it.
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The poster is two weeks away from their exam and seeks advice on which Mehlman PDFs to review and high-yield topics that are frequently tested. They also ask for input from recent test-takers.
Comments Analysis: Responses suggest focusing on high-yield areas like arrows, risk factors, and neuroanatomy, while revisiting weak systems. Some users recommend targeting endocrine/reproductive, as it has been heavily tested recently. Links to external resources and moral support reflect the collaborative nature of the subreddit.
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The poster asks if there are repeated questions between the old and new Free 120 exams and requests links to the older versions for practice.
Comments Analysis: Multiple commenters confirm that Free 120 (2024) and Free 120 (2021) do not share repeated questions, but some overlap exists between the 2022 and 2024 versions. A user offers a PDF resource with additional questions, while others inquire about accessing these versions, showcasing a mutual interest in leveraging Free 120 for effective preparation.
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The poster shares their comprehensive preparation timeline, including First Aid (FA), UWorld, and multiple NBMEs, and seeks advice on whether to continue revising FA or incorporate Mehlman PDFs before their December 11th exam.
Comments Analysis: Responses favor incorporating Mehlman PDFs, especially for weak areas, while continuing to revise FA. Some suggest focusing on targeted PDFs like arrows, risk factors, and neuroanatomy. The thread reflects a supportive tone, with users exchanging strategies and good wishes.
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The poster shares their NBME scores and asks if they should proceed with their exam on November 14th or delay it to improve their chances of passing.
Comments Analysis: Responses weigh the decision, with some encouraging the poster to proceed based on their NBME pass probabilities, while others suggest delaying to review weaknesses using Mehlman PDFs and other resources. The discussion highlights the trade-off between readiness and the psychological burden of delaying the exam.