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The posts focus heavily on USMLE Step 1 exam preparation, with users sharing their experiences and asking for advice on study strategies, practice exams, and time management. A key theme across discussions is the use of resources like UWorld, NBME exams, First Aid, and Mehlman’s PDFs. Many users are concerned about how to review practice questions effectively, with recommendations to prioritize missed questions, review concepts quickly, and focus on high-yield topics through flashcards. Users often suggest a structured study schedule, emphasizing taking NBMEs every 4-5 days and using practice exams like Free 120 closer to the test date.
Several posts highlight exam anxiety and uncertainty about readiness based on fluctuating scores. Users frequently express worry about their NBME and Free 120 scores, debating whether scores like 60-70% are sufficient to pass. There’s strong encouragement in the community, with successful test-takers reassuring others that consistency in studying and reviewing mistakes is key. Many posts also discuss confidence-building strategies in the final days, such as focusing on familiar material, avoiding overwhelming new content, and managing stress.
Other notable discussions include logistical questions, like document verification for IMGs through the ECFMG, and practical test-day concerns like what materials are allowed in the exam room. The community shares helpful advice about timing for taking exams, NBME scheduling, and the benefits of doing practice exams under timed conditions to simulate the real test. There is an overarching emphasis on perseverance and faith in the study process, with many users sharing their success stories to motivate others.
The user completed the online part of the Step 1 application and paid the fees but is concerned because their application status does not appear, although their school uses EMSWP for verification. They wonder if they missed something or if the status is pending due to incomplete verification.
Responders suggested waiting for a few days as the delay might be due to processing time. Others reassured the user that status updates can take a while and recommended following up if there’s no change after a couple of days.
A user scored 80% on NBME 30 and is wondering about their chances of passing Step 1 based on this score.
Comments reassured the user that scoring around 80% on an NBME is a positive indicator, but some requested more details about how many questions were incorrect to provide a more specific assessment. General advice emphasized continuing preparation while maintaining confidence.
The user failed Step 1 in August and has their next attempt in two weeks. They’re currently studying using Mehlman PDFs and NBME 20-31 but are unsure if they're adequately prepared due to their previous failure.
Replies were encouraging, suggesting that their recent NBME scores (67-79%) show improvement. Users advised sticking to Mehlman’s videos, reviewing wrong answers, and focusing on weak areas. Encouragement was provided with shared experiences of others passing on their second attempt.
A user asked how many days before the exam they should take the Free 120.
Most commenters recommended taking it 2-5 days before the exam to leave time for reviewing errors, while some suggested not taking it too close to the exam to avoid stress in case of a low score.
An IMG with an upcoming Step 1 exam is nervous due to rumors that IMGs receive harder questions, especially those taking the exam outside of the U.S. They ask for advice regarding this concern.
Most responses dismissed this rumor, assuring that the exam difficulty is the same regardless of the country or status. Advice focused on revising NBME exams and not letting such rumors affect preparation.
A user asked how long they should spend on NBME 25-31.
Responses generally suggested completing each NBME every 4-5 days, allowing 2-3 weeks for the entire set. It was recommended to review mistakes thoroughly between tests to reinforce concepts and learning.
A user asked if they could bring pen and paper to the Step 1 exam for biostatistics calculations.
The consensus was that Prometric centers provide scratch paper and a marker for calculations. Bringing personal materials is not allowed, but candidates will have sufficient tools during the test.
The post shared a study method using Mehlman PDFs with searchable apps like Notability to streamline review sessions. The poster emphasized creating flashcards for high-yield topics and linking topics to single diseases or concepts to keep reviews focused.
Comments supported the method, with users sharing their positive experiences using Mehlman alongside UWorld. The idea of organizing by topic and creating flashcards resonated well, particularly for those struggling with ADHD or slow learning.
An IMG uploaded their medical diploma to ECFMG, but after a crash, they were unsure if the upload was successful. They asked if they would receive a confirmation.
Comments reassured the user that the system stores uploads, and even if their laptop crashed, the document should be saved. They also recommended emailing ECFMG to confirm, which the user had already done.
A user, anxious due to a family emergency, asked if it’s wise to book their exam in 18 days. They’ve completed 75% of UWorld and scored between 71-78% on recent NBMEs.
Responses were supportive, encouraging the user to proceed with the exam based on their solid scores and to continue practicing with NBME 29-31. They were advised to keep up their momentum and stay positive.
The user scored 69% on the Free 120 and is nervous about passing Step 1. They’re seeking reassurance with only two days until their exam.
Many responders shared their experiences of passing with similar scores, reinforcing the idea that a single block score doesn’t define the outcome. Encouragement to stay calm and proceed with the exam was prevalent.
The user is working through their second pass of UWorld and wonders whether they should use the timed feature or continue reviewing explanations after each question.
Most commenters advised using the timed mode to simulate real exam conditions. Reviewing mistakes after each block was suggested to reinforce learning, but practicing time management was emphasized.
A user scored 60.8% on the new Free 120 two days before the exam and is unsure if they should postpone. Their NBME scores have ranged between 55-69%.
The advice was mixed, with some suggesting postponing for further review and others recommending proceeding if rescheduling isn’t feasible. Reassurance was given that Free 120 scores aren't a definitive predictor of failure.
The user is spending over 3 hours reviewing a 40-question block and feels overwhelmed. They asked if their review strategy is too time-consuming.
Suggestions included focusing on reviewing only incorrect answers and relevant sections. Some recommended using Anki for errors and prioritizing high-yield content to save time.
A US-IMG from Pakistan shared their Step 1 journey, detailing their study methods, struggles, and eventual success. They used UWorld, First Aid, Pathoma, and Mehlman PDFs while balancing personal challenges.
The community congratulated the user, with many asking for advice. The key takeaway was to focus on learning from mistakes, staying persistent, and maintaining confidence in preparation.