INVISTA NO SEU SUCESSO:
The USMLE Step 1 preparation community shares a variety of challenges and strategies, from overcoming failures to last-minute exam nerves. Many users emphasize the importance of NBME practice tests (particularly Forms 25–31) and Free120 to gauge readiness, often combining these with high-yield resources like Mehlman PDFs, UWorld QBanks, and First Aid. Specific advice highlights balancing content review with active practice through QBanks and targeting weak areas such as biostatistics, ethics, and system-based concepts like neuroanatomy or immunodeficiencies. Emotional support and confidence-building techniques play a key role in helping users persevere through the intensive prep period.
For those near their exam date, threads recommend prioritizing NBME 31 and Free120 while practicing test-day simulation conditions to build stamina. Resource choices such as Bootcamp, AMBOSS, and AnKing decks are often debated, with advice tailored to individual learning styles and budgets. Unique strategies like focusing solely on Mehlman PDFs or combining AMBOSS questions with light reviews illustrate flexible approaches to studying. Failed attempts are met with motivational advice to rebuild foundations, track progress through assessments, and address anxiety or burnout.
Threads on results day reflect shared anxiety over release delays and frustrations with uncertainty. Users celebrate their successes with gratitude for community support, often detailing preparation journeys that include steady NBME score improvements, consistent UWorld practice, and structured study plans over several months. Overall, the community demonstrates a mix of practical advice, resource-specific recommendations, and emotional solidarity to help test-takers succeed.
Post 1: 10 Days til Exam. What to Do Next?
The user shares NBME practice test scores (NBME 27: 69, NBME 29: 70, NBME 31: 72) and a shocking Free120 score of 57%, asking whether to prioritize a second pass of UWorld or focus on other strategies during the last 10 days of preparation.
The main advice revolves around reviewing high-yield (HY) topics such as biostat equations, Pathoma 1-3, FA Rapid Review, Mehlman Arrows, and neuroanatomy, while addressing weaker subjects. Commenters reassure the user that their scores are in a good range and recommend confidence-building techniques.
Post 2: Step 1 in 1 Day
The user seeks insights into the Step 1 test-day experience, wondering if it’s stressful or calm and how it compares to NBME practice tests and Free120. They also ask for advice on managing last-minute anxiety.
Responses emphasize that the environment is calm and focused, with most questions being high-yield topics like immunodeficiencies. Commenters recommend avoiding overthinking on ethics questions and sticking to HY resources such as Mehlman PDFs and NBME HY images. Noise-canceling headphones or earplugs are suggested to tackle potential distractions.
Post 3: AMBOSS Questions as Content Review
Feeling fatigued from multiple passes of UWorld, the user plans to use AMBOSS (1-3 hammer difficulty) to freshen up before the exam, aiming for 80 questions per day over 10 days.
Opinions vary, with some recommending AMBOSS as a valuable active review tool, while others caution that the style differs from Step 1 questions. Suggestions include focusing on 1-3 hammer questions and consulting existing write-ups on AMBOSS strategies.
Post 4: NBME 27: 61 Percent
The user, 30 days out from the exam, asks if their NBME 27 score of 61% warrants postponing.
Encouraging comments highlight that scores in the 55-60% range have led to passes for others. Suggestions include continuing UWorld, focusing on Mehlman PDFs for weak subjects, and aiming for a consistent score of 65% or higher on practice tests to feel confident.
Post 5: What’s the Consensus on When to Do Free120?
The user, 3 weeks out, asks how to schedule NBME 30, NBME 31, and Free120 before the exam and whether Free120 should be the last assessment.
Most suggest doing Free120 3-5 days before the exam to gauge readiness and leave time for final revisions, especially if the score isn’t as expected.
Post 6: Do Insurance Questions Still Show Up on Step 1?
The user wonders if insurance-related questions are worth studying.
Commenters unanimously agree that these topics are low yield or absent from the current Step 1 exam, suggesting the user can safely skip this material.
Post 7: RESULT 🔥💥⚡️🌪️☄️
The user asks about the FSMB trick to predict results and expresses frustration over delays in score release.
Users debate the reliability of the FSMB trick, noting discrepancies between old and new accounts. Anxiety over score release times (ranging from 7 AM to 11 AM EST) is a recurring theme, with some blaming external factors like elections for potential delays.
Post 8: Prometric Issue
The user, testing in Karachi, reports not receiving an email confirmation and being unable to reach Prometric by phone.
Responses clarify that Prometric emails are typically sent 2-3 days before the test. Users recommend contacting alternate centers or waiting closer to the exam date.
Post 9: When to Start UWorld?
A first-year medical student asks about the best time to start UWorld questions.
The single response strongly suggests starting ASAP to build familiarity with Step 1 material early on.
Post 10: Resultttt
The user expresses extreme anxiety about awaiting results.
Commenters empathize, sharing similar feelings of pre-result anxiety and encouraging each other to stay calm. Some predict the results will be favorable based on prior preparation.
Post 11: 8/11 Test Takers
The user asks about the timeline for results for those who tested on 8/11/2024.
Commenters estimate results will arrive two Wednesdays after the exam. Some share experiences with difficult sections, particularly immunology and RFs, while remaining hopeful about passing.
Post 12: Rapid Review — HY?
The user debates focusing on First Aid Rapid Review or doing another pass of UWorld.
Suggestions include leaving Rapid Review for the last 1-2 weeks and focusing on NBME HY topics to maximize efficiency.
Post 13: Results
A user asks about the release time for Step 1 results.
Responses echo frustrations with waiting, with speculations ranging from 7-9 AM EST for expected release times.
Post 14: RESULTS
The user voices growing anxiety about delayed results.
Encouraging comments highlight the bravery it takes to attempt Step 1, reminding users to be proud regardless of the outcome. A few report receiving their results and share congratulatory messages.
Post 15: Failed Step 1
A non-US IMG shares their disappointment after failing Step 1 and seeks advice on whether to continue.
Supportive comments stress resilience and reflection. Users share personal stories of failing but succeeding on subsequent attempts. Strategies include professional guidance (e.g., Mehlman PDFs), addressing anxiety, and ensuring consistent NBME scores above 65%.
Post 16: RESULTS
The user asks if anyone has received their results yet.
Commenters share similar frustrations with waiting. Solidarity and encouragement dominate the thread as they speculate about release times.
Post 17: 29/10 Result??
The user asks about results for 29/10 test takers, unsure of when they’ll be released.
Mixed answers suggest checking results via ECFMG OASIS. Some speculate results might arrive later in the day or the following week.
Post 18: Result
A user who tested on 2nd Nov asks about results.
Few responses; one user relates to the wait but offers no new insights.
Post 19: Result!!!
The user anxiously awaits results for 3rd Nov test takers.
Comments mirror widespread impatience and anxiety, with speculations about release times and supportive remarks.
Post 20: 13/11
The user reflects on their performance, particularly struggling with ethics questions.
Responses confirm that many concepts were from NBME or Free120, while ethics and low-yield biochem topics posed challenges. Users emphasize the importance of First Aid for these sections.
Post 21: People Who Recently Got Their Step 1 Results in the Last Few Weeks
The user is anxious about the delay in result release and asks whether Step 1 results typically arrive on time, late by a few minutes, or even hours/days.
Responses reflect shared frustrations, especially from non-US IMGs, with delays in receiving results. One commenter clarifies they received their result a week earlier at 6 PM Pakistani time, implying time zone differences. Users collectively express impatience but maintain a supportive tone.
Post 22: Results
A user asks if anyone has received their Step 1 results.
The thread confirms that results were released, with multiple users celebrating their PASS. One shares detailed NBME scores (ranging from 78% to 86%) and mentions the new Free120 score of 84%. The overall sentiment is congratulatory, with others asking about preparation strategies.
Post 23: 29/10 Tested Still Haven’t Got the Result
The user inquires if other test-takers from October 29th have received their results.
Users confirm receiving their results, with most reporting passing scores. Detailed NBME score reports are shared, providing insights into strong preparation strategies, with scores ranging from 71%-86%. Some highlight progressive improvements through frequent NBME tests and targeted reviews.
Post 24: 8 AM Results??
The user is concerned about delays in receiving result emails and asks if others have received them yet.
Many confirm receiving results, with shared scores showing steady NBME improvements over time. Preparation strategies emphasize Mehlman PDFs, regular NBME testing, and reviewing weak areas. Celebratory comments dominate as users express relief after seeing their PASS.
Post 25: Med School Bootcamp Discount for Nov 24
The user organizes a discount group for Med School Bootcamp, offering up to 25% off for group sign-ups.
Few responses, but a positive reaction from a single commenter indicates interest. The post provides clear instructions for joining the group and emphasizes savings.
Post 26: Advice
A user asks if it’s wise to apply for Step 1 without taking any NBMEs, citing limited time and a hectic schedule.
Responses suggest that the user is in a good position to proceed, with a 3-month testing slot recommended for flexibility. Strategies like reviewing UWorld incorrects and reading 20-30 pages of First Aid daily are advised. Commenters emphasize steady preparation over rushing.
Post 27: Prometric Exam Pattern
The user seeks clarification on the pattern of practice exams at Prometric centers, asking if it mimics Step 1 or Free120.
Commenters clarify that Prometric practice exams use the new Free120 format (3 blocks), with no answer reviews allowed. Scores are provided as a percentage at the end. Users find the practice exam helpful for gauging test readiness.
Post 28: Exam in Two Weeks, Cancel from Now?
The user debates postponing the exam due to low NBME scores (ranging from 51%-57%) and low confidence, despite being unable to extend their testing window without paying additional fees.
Responses recommend postponing to allow for additional preparation, including doing more NBMEs, Mehlman PDFs, and focused reviews. While acknowledging the financial burden of rescheduling, users emphasize the importance of confidence and preparedness for success.
Post 29: Step 1 Advice/Schedule
The user, an IMG with a busy med school schedule, seeks a 3-month study plan to prepare for Step 1 by late March 2025.
Advice centers on combining UWorld, NBMEs, and Mehlman PDFs. A user shares a YouTube video detailing their preparation journey, which highlights the importance of maintaining focus and balancing study with rest.
Post 30: Got the P 🎉
The user celebrates passing Step 1, thanking the community for support during the journey.
The thread is filled with congratulations and requests for preparation strategies. The user shares their resources, including UWorld, First Aid, Sketchy, and Mehlman PDFs. They detail a steady improvement in NBME scores despite doubts post-Free120. Strategies include breaking test blocks into manageable sessions and using caffeine to stay focused.
Post 31: An Unconventional Way to Pass
The user shares an unconventional approach to passing Step 1 in two months, relying on concise resources like Mehlman PDFs and skipping UWorld, First Aid, and Anki entirely.
Responses praise the minimalist yet effective strategy, especially for users with time constraints. The emphasis on repeated revisions of high-yield material resonates with others who struggle to complete extensive question banks. Commenters share similar unconventional methods, highlighting the importance of flexibility.
Post 32: What Should I Do Now?
The user struggles with frequently selecting the second-most correct answer and asks if studying NBMEs and Mehlman PDFs will help improve scores.
Suggestions include prioritizing NBME-based concepts and focusing on weak areas using targeted reviews. One commenter shares a video outlining their preparation strategies, emphasizing active recall and analyzing mistakes.
Post 33: Form 28 CVS
The user seeks clarification on a murmur question in NBME Form 28.
Responses provide concise explanations, emphasizing that a fixed split S2 signifies ASD (atrial septal defect). The thread highlights a key Step 1 strategy: recognizing patterns and keywords in question stems.
Post 34: Ethics Step 1
The user asks whether to prioritize Mehlman PDFs or UWorld questions for ethics preparation.
Commenters favor UWorld ethics questions and AMBOSS, recommending thorough review of explanations. The thread underscores ethics as a tricky but manageable subject with practice.
Post 35: What Happened with My Results?
The user, who tested on 10/25, reports not receiving their results yet.
Users clarify that results are typically posted at 11 AM EST for US test-takers. Frustration about delays persists, but comments are reassuring.
Post 36: I Just Passed. Advice for Those with Poor Memory
The user emphasizes the importance of completing UWorld and reviewing NBMEs for passing Step 1, particularly for those with poor memory.
The post receives widespread appreciation for its practical advice. Strategies include using Anki for difficult concepts and focusing on retaining UWorld content rather than extensive resources like Mehlman PDFs. Commenters share similar struggles with memory retention and echo the value of Anki and UWorld.
Post 37: Failed Step 1
A non-US IMG shares their devastation after failing Step 1 and seeks motivation to retry.
The thread is filled with supportive advice, emphasizing self-care and encouraging the user to retry. Responses highlight common challenges like test-day anxiety and offer practical tips, including redoing NBMEs and revising weak areas for better confidence.
Post 38: Uw vs Bnb, What is Correct Here?
The user is confused about contradictory explanations between UWorld (UW) and Boards and Beyond (BnB) regarding the Valvalva strain phase. They seek clarification on how thoracic pressure and heart rate changes are described differently in both resources.
Commenters break down the differences, explaining that BnB describes the strain phase in two parts—initially showing high SVR and decreased heart rate before increasing heart rate—while UW focuses on the eventual increase in heart rate. The thread emphasizes the importance of understanding phases of the Valsalva maneuver rather than relying on a single source.
Post 39: Pharma
The user is surprised that varenicline is a partial agonist and asks if they need to memorize similar drugs.
The comments provide a list of partial agonists, including buprenorphine, buspirone, and pindolol, while linking them to their clinical applications like anxiety and opioid use disorder. One user recommends Anki flashcards for pharmacology retention, while others highlight contextual clues for high-yield drugs like clomiphene (PCOS) and danazol (androgen receptor). The thread encourages conceptual understanding over rote memorization.
Post 40: CBSE Passed! Step 1 Passed!
The user shares their success story of passing both the CBSE (NBME Comprehensive) with 76% and Step 1, showcasing detailed NBME and Free120 scores (progressing from 58% to 86%).
The celebratory thread contains questions about preparation resources, with the user praising Mehlman PDFs for high-yield material and NBMEs for accurate assessments. Their strategy involved UWorld as a learning tool and NBMEs for performance tracking. Many ask about time management, with the user stating they studied 6–8 months full-time, dedicating 8–10 hours daily closer to the exam. Commenters appreciate the incremental score improvement, emphasizing the utility of Free120 and NBMEs for final preparation.
Post 41: Failed Step 1, Need Help with Materials
The poster shares their struggle with failing Step 1 and weak foundations in basic sciences. Their report indicates areas needing improvement, and they are seeking recommendations for materials and strategies for a retake in 5 months.
Users recommend a mix of UWorld (UW) and AMBOSS for topic-specific reviews. Suggestions also include using Mehlman PDFs for review and Bootcamp/Physeo to solidify weak areas. Several caution against relying on First Aid (FA) as the primary resource, emphasizing randomized QBank blocks for preparation. Emotional support and motivational messages from peers underline the importance of persistence.
Post 42: Is UWorld and NBME Questions Resemble to Exam?
The user is curious about how closely UWorld and NBME questions align with Step 1 and which QBanks are most representative of the real exam.
UWorld is highlighted as representative of question length and format, while NBME is praised for its alignment with exam topics and phrasing. Ethics questions are noted as a blend of Free120 and UWorld. This concise thread reinforces the consensus that these two resources are essential for Step 1 prep.
Post 43: Got the P!
A celebratory post with minimal content. The user has passed Step 1.
Comments focus on congratulating the user and inquiring about strategies and resources. Specific questions about NBME difficulty compared to the real exam are asked, but responses redirect to the user’s post history for details. The thread radiates positivity and camaraderie.
Post 44: NBME 25
The user reports scoring 79% on NBME 25 and asks if it’s necessary to take additional NBMEs before their exam in early December.
A brief discussion with most agreeing that NBME 25–31 are important for preparation. Users recommend focusing on NBME 30 and 31 to refine their readiness.
Post 45: From Fail to Pass!
The user shares their journey from failing Step 1 to passing it on a second attempt after a five-month dedicated preparation period. They attribute their initial failure to weak foundations, burnout, and poor resource choices. They discuss their improvements, including endurance training and refining their testing strategy.
Commenters relate to the emotional journey and celebrate the user’s success. Key takeaways include the importance of timing, strategic test-taking, and confidence-building through NBME practice. Suggestions like focusing on experimental questions and making educated guesses when unsure reflect a practical mindset for tackling the exam.
Post 46: Old Free120
The user is requesting a PDF version of the 2022 Free120.
No substantive comments, as this is a direct request for materials.
Post 47: Has Anyone Studied for Step 1 Using Only First Aid, UWorld, and Bootcamp?
The user seeks advice on using FA, UWorld, and Bootcamp as primary resources due to financial constraints.
Responses suggest that FA, UWorld, and NBMEs are sufficient for passing Step 1. Some recommend supplementing with Sketchy or Bootcamp for specific subjects like microbiology. There’s an emphasis on prioritizing UWorld for its explanations and diagrams.
Post 48: Does the AnKing Deck for Step Contain All the Info from UWorld?
The user asks if the AnKing deck comprehensively covers UWorld content.
Users confirm that AnKing sufficiently covers UWorld content and is robust for Step 1 prep. One commenter inquires about supplemental decks like Zonkoo, but others affirm that AnKing alone is comprehensive.
Post 49: 3 Days in Exam
The user shares their scores from NBMEs and UWorld assessments, expressing doubt about readiness with their exam in 3 days.
Replies reassure the user based on their consistent improvement across NBME 30/31 and Free120. The longer question stems of Free120 are noted as similar to the real exam. Encouragement and reminders to relax before the test dominate the discussion.
Post 50: NBME 25 79%, Exam in 20 Days
The user asks whether First Aid and UWorld annotations are sufficient for their exam preparation.
Users recommend taking more NBMEs to assess readiness and highlight UWorld annotations as a valuable review method. The overall sentiment is that the user’s NBME 25 score is strong, but more data points would confirm their preparedness.
Post 51: Discount Code for UWorld?
The user seeks a discount code for UWorld.
Limited responses, with suggestions to check platforms like Telegram for discounts or shared resources.
Post 52: Passed!! Non-US IMG, Tested on 28th October
A non-US IMG shares their journey to passing Step 1 after graduating in 2017. They emphasize using MedSchool Bootcamp, UWorld, First Aid, and Pixorize over five months.
Commenters praise the detailed account and take note of the systematic approach. Recommendations include gauging weaknesses through early NBMEs and adjusting resources accordingly. The thread highlights the importance of finding resources that align with one’s learning style.
Post 53: Feeling Burnt Out – Considering a New Approach
The user feels overwhelmed and proposes focusing solely on practice tests as a study strategy.
The consensus supports balancing QBank questions with targeted content review. Many suggest Bootcamp for weak areas and UWorld as a learning tool. The thread underscores that while practice is essential, understanding concepts is equally important.
Post 54: Last Weekish
The user shares strong NBME scores but feels overwhelmed about high-yield topics left to cover.
Comments suggest focusing on NBME 31, Free120, and light reviews of weak areas. Users stress confidence-building and avoiding burnout in the final days.
Post 55: Absolute Risk vs. Absolute Risk Increase for NNH
The user asks about the distinction between Absolute Risk (AR) and Absolute Risk Increase (ARI) for calculating Number Needed to Harm (NNH).
Responses clarify the difference: AR is event probability, while ARI accounts for increased risk due to intervention. Clear formulas for NNH and Number Needed to Treat (NNT) are shared, making this a useful thread for biostat review.
Post 56: Failed Step 1 Help
The user seeks guidance after failing Step 1 and shares both online and offline NBME scores. They are unsure whether to extend their triad or attempt the exam by December.
Users advise focusing on online NBME scores and building confidence through additional assessments. Emotional support is given, along with reminders that persistence pays off.
Post 57: Step 1 Tomorrow
The user expresses pre-exam anxiety and seeks tips for staying calm.
Replies focus on positivity and reassurance, emphasizing rest, focus, and trust in preparation. Test-day tips, such as managing nerves and practicing mindfulness, are offered.
Post 58: One Week Out, Strong NBMEs
The user is one week away from their exam, feeling confident but unsure how to best use the time.
Suggestions include taking NBME 31, revising weak areas, and focusing on ethics and biostatistics. Emphasis is placed on avoiding burnout while maintaining momentum.
Post 59: 1.5 Weeks Out
The user shares recent NBME and UWorld progress and seeks advice for efficient final preparations.
The thread advises reviewing NBMEs, completing Free120, and simulating test-day conditions by combining NBME 31 and Free120 in a single sitting. This approach prepares for timing and stamina demands.
Post 60: 33 Days to My Exam
The user is panicking with one month left until their exam and seeks a structured plan with weekly breaks.
Responses emphasize that feelings of overwhelm are normal and suggest focusing on NBME review and using Mehlman PDFs for weak topics. Taking regular breaks is encouraged to avoid burnout.
Post 61: How to Start USMLE Step 1 Prep? (UK Future IMG)
A second-year British medical student seeks advice on resource selection and preparation strategies for Step 1.
Suggestions include starting with AnKing + Bootcamp/BnB/AMBOSS and using UWorld and FA for active learning and content review. Many recommend taking advantage of free trials to determine the most suitable resource. Tailoring prep to individual learning styles is strongly emphasized.