INVISTA NO SEU SUCESSO:
Preparing for Step 1 requires using a variety of high-yield resources and an adaptive approach tailored to individual strengths and weaknesses. Commonly referenced materials include UWorld, NBME forms (25-31), and First Aid, supported by Pathoma and Sketchy for specific topics. Supplementary tools like Mehlman PDFs and Amboss provide concise reviews of critical areas, while ChatGPT: Med Test Master 2nd Brain offers a unique platform for personalized question explanations. Spaced repetition techniques with Anki decks, like the Rapid Review deck, have also been invaluable for retaining key facts over time.
Scores across multiple assessments guide readiness, with benchmarks such as 70%+ on NBME or 67% on Free120 aligning with high pass probabilities. To achieve these scores, methods like completing UWorld 100%, identifying weak areas, and revisiting incorrect answers are emphasized. Tactics like reviewing NBME answer explanations, consolidating core concepts through Mehlman’s Arrows, and leveraging interactive platforms are cited as pivotal for improving performance. Additionally, structured study schedules, blending targeted and randomized question sets, help students maintain focus while ensuring comprehensive coverage.
Test-takers are advised to remain adaptable, prioritizing rest and mental well-being to combat burnout. Confidence-building practices, like mimicking real-test conditions with NBME or Free120, reinforce endurance. Ultimately, the journey to Step 1 success is a combination of strategic resource use, diligent review, and mindset management, underscoring that preparation is not just about knowledge but also resilience and adaptability.
Resources:
First Aid (FA)
UWorld (UW)
NBME Forms 25-31
Free120 (Old and New)
Mehlman PDFs (Arrows, Genetics, Risk Factors)
Anki (Rapid Review Deck, Pepper Micro)
Pathoma (Chapters 1-3)
Sketchy (Microbiology and Pharm)
Bootcamp (Neuro, Biochem)
Amboss
Boards and Beyond (BnB)
Dirty Medicine (Ethics, Biochem)
ChatGPT: Med Test Master 2nd Brain
Scores:
NBME ranges: 50%-77% (progressing through prep).
UWorld averages: 50%-70%, improving with review.
Free120 scores: 67%-80% indicate readiness.
UWSA scores: 205–247 (predictive of exam success).
Methods:
Complete UWorld 100%, reviewing incorrects extensively.
Take NBME assessments in sequential order (start lower; save higher forms for later).
Create or use flashcards for retention.
Employ a topic-wise then random approach to questions.
Use resources like Mehlman PDFs for rapid concept consolidation.
Identify and prioritize weak areas through targeted questions and videos.
Cross-review UWorld concepts in FA or Pathoma.
Opportunities:
Early planning with structured dedicated study schedules (e.g., 2-3 months at 10 hours/day).
Optimize final weeks by emphasizing concepts from high-weight NBMEs.
Use Med Test Master 2nd Brain for enhanced question explanations.
Utilize peer recommendations to discover supplementary resources.
Tips and Tricks:
Focus on high-yield topics: Ethics, Neuroanatomy, Micro, Biostats.
Use spaced repetition (e.g., Anki) to strengthen memory.
Integrate visual aids (Pathoma, Sketchy) for clinical correlations.
Take breaks during blocks but balance with endurance-building practices.
Rest before exams to combat burnout and improve test performance.
Post 1: Passed Step 1
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The user shares their successful Step 1 experience after a rigorous two-month study plan, studying for 10 hours daily. Their preparation included analyzing UWorld (UW) and practicing with NBMEs, with scores improving from NBME 29 (76%) to NBME 28 (77%). They highlighted the importance of concept repetition across UW and NBMEs and praised resources like the Rapid Review FA Anki deck.
Comments were overwhelmingly congratulatory, with many users seeking study tips. The poster shared their focused revision approach, emphasizing NBME and UW for weak areas like genetics and pharmacology. They revealed a steady score trajectory, using UW blocks daily and Anki for targeted review. Their advice about experimental questions on the exam resonated with others, showcasing a practical mindset.
Post 2: Step 1 High Yield
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This post invites users to share high-yield Step 1 topics. Contributions included key areas such as pathology (inflammation, neoplasia), ethics, and microbiology. Resources like Pathoma, Sketchy, and Dirty Medicine videos were commonly recommended.
Users focused on the importance of prioritizing key concepts rather than getting overwhelmed with multiple resources. Ethics emerged as a critical topic, with some suggesting video-based learning. The post highlights a communal effort to streamline material, encouraging users to focus on NBME-based concepts and reliable resources like Pathoma and UWorld.
Post 3: Torn Between Mehlman Neuroanatomy and Neurology
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The user seeks advice on choosing between Mehlman’s Neuroanatomy and Neurology PDFs for last-minute preparation. Responses overwhelmingly recommended studying both, with emphasis on dementia, herniations, neoplasms, and drugs for high-yield content.
Responses stressed the complementary nature of both resources, with specific focus areas like neuroanatomy images and key clinical concepts. Despite time constraints, users advised prioritizing visual material from Mehlman’s PDFs. The discussion also highlighted the need for integrating neuroanatomy and clinical neurology for comprehensive exam readiness.
Post 4: NBME 24: 92 Incorrects, Feeling Devastated, Exam in One Month
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The user expresses frustration over high incorrect answers on NBME 24, despite extensive preparation, and seeks guidance with one month left before their exam.
Responses provided a mix of practical advice and empathy, encouraging the user to focus on recent NBMEs (25–31) and high-yield resources like Pathoma and First Aid. The post also highlighted the emotional toll of the process, with some sharing coping strategies like using Anki for structured review. Suggestions emphasized improving on weak topics and ignoring outdated NBME content like NBME 24.
Post 5: Confused
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The user seeks a guide for creating an ECFMG account and completing the registration process as an IMG.
Responses were concise, with recommendations including Manik Madaan’s YouTube videos, which provide step-by-step guidance. The simplicity of the comments reflects the straightforward nature of the query, focusing on accessible video tutorials.
Post 6: Should I Take an NBME at This Point?
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Preparing for four months and nearing UWorld’s expiration, the user debates taking NBME 26 to assess readiness.
Comments were sparse but practical, suggesting scheduling the exam soon after taking an NBME. The lack of specific insights indicates limited information in the original post, but users emphasized the importance of exam timelines and regular NBME use.
Post 7: Neurology
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The user struggles with neurology preparation, seeking advice on essential topics. Suggestions included Mehlman’s Neuro PDFs and Bootcamp for a structured review.
Responses emphasized focusing on high-yield neurology, with Mehlman being a standout resource. Users also shared personal success stories, suggesting a targeted approach to reduce frustration. Bootcamp was highlighted as ideal for those with weak foundations, offering a step-by-step framework.
Post 8: NBMEs
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Concerned about forgetting material, the user plans to begin NBME practice tests.
Responses reassured the user that forgetting is natural and emphasized reviewing mistakes to reinforce learning. Resources like YouTube study guides provided motivation and structured advice for tackling NBME content.
Post 9: Advice
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The user scored 56% on Free 120 and seeks last-minute guidance to pass Step 1.
Comments stressed analyzing mistakes, differentiating between knowledge gaps and focus errors, and targeting weak areas in First Aid. Suggestions remained optimistic, emphasizing belief in one’s preparation.
Post 10: Should I Schedule?
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Based on NBME scores ranging from 63% to 67.5%, the user asks for advice on scheduling their exam.
Responses recommended taking Free 120 or another NBME for confirmation. Comments reflected cautious optimism, with users urging the poster to focus on reviewing mistakes while reassuring them about their readiness.
Post 11: Cheaper Alternatives for UWorld
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The user inquires about affordable alternatives to UWorld for Step 1 question practice. The primary recommendation in the comments was Amboss, a commonly used QBank among medical students.
The discussion is brief but focused. One commenter highlights the distinction between using alternatives as a supplement or a replacement for UWorld, reflecting the importance of UWorld’s reputation for Step 1 preparation. Amboss is noted as a strong option, especially for students with budget constraints, offering detailed explanations and integration with study resources like First Aid.
Post 12: IWA Not Working?
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The user reports an issue with the IWA (Interactive Web Application) on the ECFMG website while trying to schedule their exam. A commenter confirms experiencing the same issue and advises retrying later.
The comments indicate this is likely a temporary server issue, with no solutions provided beyond waiting. The brevity of the interaction reflects the straightforward nature of the problem and its resolution.
Post 13: Need Advice
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The user questions the advice to take breaks and snack during Step 1, sharing their ability to complete two blocks without breaks while practicing. They also inquire about noise-canceling headphones for the test day.
Comments offer practical insights on breaks, noting that NBMEs are less taxing than the actual exam, and suggesting strategies like brief moments of relaxation rather than full breaks. Test centers provide noise-canceling headphones, making external equipment unnecessary. Overall, responses balance maintaining focus with managing stamina, emphasizing Free120 as a trial for strategies.
Post 14: List of All Microorganisms Systemwise
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The user seeks a system-based list of microorganisms for Step 1 microbiology preparation. Comments recommend using Sketchy Micro paired with the Pepper Anki deck for efficient learning.
Responses discourage creating a comprehensive list, highlighting the low-yield nature of memorizing all microorganisms. Instead, they advocate focusing on high-yield pathogens via Sketchy’s narrative mnemonics and supplementing with practice questions to target weak areas. This approach prioritizes understanding over rote memorization, aligning with efficient study techniques.
Post 15: Daily Study Schedules in Dedicated
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The user requests examples of daily study schedules during the final weeks of Step 1 preparation. A commenter shares a YouTube video outlining their study plan with resources like UWorld and NBMEs.
While the response lacks specific schedules, it provides actionable advice via a video guide. The mention of personal experiences highlights the importance of tailored study plans, integrating major resources like First Aid and UWorld into daily routines.
Post 16: 47% on NBME 27... 5 Weeks Out
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Scoring 47% on NBME 27, the user expresses concern with limited UWorld completion (17%) and seeks advice for significant improvement in five weeks.
Comments recommend a structured approach:
Prioritize UWorld: Complete at least 100% with topic-specific practice for weak areas.
Incorporate Mehlman PDFs: Particularly HY Arrows for rapid score improvement.
Focus on NBME Concepts: Regularly assess progress using NBMEs and UWorld SA.
Strategic Study: Balance timed/random blocks and guided review.
Emphasis is placed on realistic expectations, with some cautioning against rushing the exam without adequate preparation.
Post 17: Exam in a Week
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The user shares a consistent score progression (60%-74%) across NBMEs and Free120, seeking validation for readiness with the exam in one week.
Comments largely support proceeding with the exam, citing strong scores and advising focus on weak areas instead of new NBMEs. Some emphasize the value of NBME 31 and Mehlman’s HY Arrows for final refinement. The advice to stay relaxed and trust the preparation reflects a positive tone, reinforcing readiness.
Post 18: Should I Schedule for Early December?
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The user debates scheduling Step 1 for early December despite high scores (NBME 27: 74%, UWSA 1: 247). They express imposter syndrome, citing reliance on reasoning over buzzwords during exams.
Comments address the user’s confidence concerns, encouraging trust in their NBME progression. They highlight that reasoning through questions is common and effective, particularly for Step 1’s conceptual focus. Suggestions include reviewing pathophysiology gaps via UWorld and targeted resources to address weak areas before the exam.
Post 19: Need Free120 Explanations
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The user requests explanations for the new Free120 questions. Commenters recommend Bootcamp and pinned subreddit posts as sources for detailed walkthroughs.
Responses provide straightforward solutions, directing the user to reliable, widely-used resources. The concise discussion reflects the practicality of accessing explanations through platforms like Bootcamp, which align with Step 1’s high-yield preparation focus.
Post 20: Are Dopaminergic Pathways High Yield?
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The user asks about the importance of dopaminergic pathways (e.g., Mesocortical, Mesolimbic). Responses confirm their significance but suggest minimal time investment (~10 minutes).
The clinical relevance of pathways is emphasized, with key associations highlighted:
Mesocortical: Negative symptoms in schizophrenia.
Mesolimbic: Positive symptoms and substance abuse.
Nigrostriatal: Parkinsonism.
Tuberoinfundibular: Prolactinoma.
The advice to focus on clinical correlations over intricate details reflects a high-yield approach tailored to Step 1.
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Post 21: Need Help for Biochem and Genetics
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The user feels unprepared in biochemistry and genetics, particularly with pedigrees and probability questions, despite using Dirty Medicine, First Aid, Bootcamp, and UWorld. They request efficient study suggestions due to limited time.
Comments suggest focusing on concise, high-yield resources like Mehlman’s Genetics PDF, noted as a "lifesaver" for tackling genetics and probability. For biochemistry, Pixorize is recommended for mnemonic-based visuals, while Boards and Beyond (BnB) is praised for comprehensive process-oriented learning. Randy Neil’s YouTube videos are highlighted as helpful for probability-based questions, offering a targeted approach to alleviate knowledge gaps quickly.
Post 22: Would Like Some Advice on Last 1-Month Prep
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The user, with NBME scores between 62% and 72%, aims to revise biochem, biostats, respiratory, and renal systems before their December 3 exam. They seek advice on optimizing their remaining three weeks.
Suggestions emphasize prioritizing Mehlman’s Arrows and Genetics PDFs for focused revisions while reviewing NBME mistakes to identify weak points. Users recommend setting aside 5 days for rapid system reviews and incorporating daily UWorld blocks to reinforce concepts. Encouragement from the community stresses the feasibility of completing these goals with consistent effort and structured study.
Post 23: NBME Scores 4 Weeks Left
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The user reports low NBME scores (33% and 39%) four weeks before their exam, feeling the concepts tested on NBMEs are unfamiliar despite studying First Aid and BnB.
The consensus advises postponement, citing insufficient foundational knowledge. Recommendations include focusing on UWorld incorrects, detailed review of weak areas via Boards and Beyond, and re-evaluating readiness with older NBMEs before using newer ones (27-31). Achieving consistent NBME scores of 66%+ is suggested as a benchmark for scheduling the exam. Users emphasize the importance of mastering content before rushing into the test.
Post 24: Mehlman Risk Factors
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The user is reviewing Mehlman’s Risk Factors PDF days before their exam but finds its focus on Step 2 CK and FM shelves concerning. They seek feedback on its relevance for Step 1.
Opinions on the resource are mixed. While some users find Mehlman’s PDF only partially helpful (~20%), others recommend using Amboss High-Yield Risk Factors, citing its broader applicability and free trial option. Comments also highlight microbiology and pharmacology as critical areas for review over risk factors, reflecting the variability in exam focus.
Post 25: UW Score Not Improving
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The user struggles with stagnant UWorld scores (50-60% after three reads of First Aid and Mehlman) during their first pass, seeking guidance for improvement.
Recommendations stress treating UWorld as a learning tool rather than a self-assessment resource. Strategies include thorough review of UWorld explanations, identifying patterns in mistakes, and revising weak topics with targeted resources like videos or notes. A commenter suggests transitioning to random timed blocks to simulate exam conditions and boost retention. Emphasis is placed on consistent practice and addressing comprehension gaps over fixation on scores.
Post 26: Step 1
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The user inquires about the release schedule for Step 1 results.
Comments clarify that results are only released on Wednesdays, reflecting the standardized process for reporting scores. The concise interaction aligns with the straightforward nature of the question.
Post 27: Took a 1-Month Break from Studying, Exam on 12/26
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The user had to take a month-long study break and has 1.5 months until their exam. They have completed UWorld but no practice tests and seek advice on how to proceed.
Suggestions focus on assessing readiness with practice tests (NBMEs or Free120) to identify knowledge gaps and plan subsequent studies. Users share personal experiences of managing setbacks, recommending resources like Goljan for boosting confidence. Encouragement highlights that consistent practice and targeted revision can help regain momentum. A commenter promotes a GPT-based medical tool for efficient learning, reflecting the increasing reliance on AI in test preparation.
Post 28: Last Month of Prep
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The user has completed most of UWorld and achieved NBME/UWSA scores in the 70s-80s. They request advice on prioritizing concepts and strategies to maximize their performance in the final month.
Comments recommend focusing on incorrects and marked UWorld questions, integrating reviews with First Aid and tailoring revisions to weak areas. Users highlight the importance of completing pending NBMEs to assess readiness and refine test-taking strategies. The emphasis is on balancing reinforcement of strengths with addressing deficiencies, ensuring a well-rounded preparation approach.
Post 29: Step 1 Ethics
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The user requests access to the Amboss Ethics PDF, highlighting their need for focused ethics preparation.
The post lacks substantial engagement, but the user’s request underscores the growing reliance on specialized resources like Amboss for mastering high-yield topics like ethics. Sharing of such materials remains a common practice within the community.
Post 30: Where Can I Get Form 25 NBME?
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The user seeks a source for NBME Form 25, unable to locate it on common platforms like Reddit or Telegram.
A commenter provides a direct link to the requested form via Google Drive. This interaction highlights the collaborative nature of the Step 1 community, where users share resources to support each other’s preparation.
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Post 31: 58% (205) UWSA1 Only One Month Left
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The user reports UWSA1 (58%, 205) and NBME scores of 57% on Forms 28 and 29. They achieved 63% on Bootcamp SA and seek advice to improve their performance within a month.
Comments are minimal, with one user suggesting reviewing UWorld incorrects thoroughly. While actionable advice is sparse, focusing on repeated weak areas in NBME and UWorld remains a proven strategy for incremental improvement. Regular assessments with NBMEs can gauge progress and readiness as the exam date approaches.
Post 32: UWSA2
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The user scored 74% on UWSA2 and completed 50% of UWorld (66% average), questioning if they’re ready for the exam in six weeks.
A commenter reassures the user, recommending NBME 31 and Free120 to confirm readiness. Scoring 70%+ on these assessments aligns with a high likelihood of passing. The focus on completing remaining UWorld questions and addressing weak areas ensures a comprehensive approach to preparation.
Post 33: Step 1
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With 80% of UWorld completed (60% average) and NBME scores of 69% (Form 27) and 62% (Form 28), the user debates completing UWorld or prioritizing NBMEs and First Aid revision for their December 20 exam.
Completing the remaining UWorld questions while redoing incorrects is suggested as the best strategy to solidify knowledge and boost confidence. This approach ensures exposure to as many concepts as possible while using NBMEs to track progress and readiness. Balancing both tasks effectively can help the user achieve their target scores.
Post 34: I’ve Lost Hope. I Don’t Know Why.
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The user shares feelings of burnout and anxiety, citing declining percentages from 76% to 71% on NBME and UWSA2, despite remaining above the passing threshold.
The community reassures the user, emphasizing their scores are well above the passing range, with one user pointing out a 99% likelihood of passing. Suggestions include taking a rest day, addressing anxiety, and maintaining a balanced perspective. The overarching advice is to focus on test-readiness over perfection, using remaining time for final reviews and confidence-building.
Post 35: Thinking About Taking the Exam in December
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The user shares consistent NBME scores ranging from 65% to 76% and reports completing 70% of UWorld. They seek input on whether they’re ready for a December test date.
A commenter validates the user’s readiness, highlighting their strong NBME performance and near-completion of UWorld. Reviewing incorrects and marked questions is essential for addressing lingering weaknesses. The post reflects a solid foundation for proceeding with confidence in December.
Post 36: Step 1 in 14 Days
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With NBME scores between 50% (Form 26) and 64% (Form 27), the user aims to increase their scores to high 60s or 70s before their test in two weeks.
Suggestions include revising Forms 29, 30, and 31 alongside Free120, emphasizing the repetition of concepts across these assessments. Reviewing Mehlman’s Arrows and Risk Factors PDFs, as well as focusing on high-yield ethics from FA, is also advised. The importance of confidence and systematic review during this limited timeframe is underscored.
Post 37: Gave NBME 29 and Got 67%, Any Advice to Get at Least 70%?
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The user scored 67% on NBME 29 and reports consistent performance across other assessments, with burnout looming ahead of their December 23 exam.
Users recommend taking a day off to recover from burnout and resuming preparation by revising weaker systems with targeted resources like Mehlman’s videos or PDFs. Consistent review of NBME content and cross-referencing foundational topics can bridge the slight gap to the desired 70%.
Post 38: ChatGPT – Med Test Master 2nd Brain
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The user introduces a free GPT-based tool, Med Test Master 2nd Brain, designed for medical exam preparation. The tool features study and exam modes, providing explanations, insights, and answer options for medical questions.
Comments express gratitude for the innovative resource, with users acknowledging its potential to streamline preparation. The tool’s ability to integrate explanations and query-saving functions may help users optimize study sessions, though its limitations in handling visual inputs like radiology or histology remain.