#USMLE Step 2 Recalls

[recallmastery]

Revolutionize your USMLE Step 1 prep with our extensive USMLE Step 1 Recalls! Dive into high-yield content, master key concepts, and excel in your exams. Recall Mastery provide an effective pathway for your success. If you want to learn more, get in touch with us today.

[i-successacademy]

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[gowine7172]

Top Strategies for Efficient USMLE Preparation

Preparing for the USMLE is a challenging but achievable goal. With the right strategies, you can streamline your study sessions, retain essential information, and approach usmle pass program the exam with confidence. This article outlines key strategies that will help you efficiently prepare and perform well on the USMLE exams.

Develop a Detailed Study Plan

A detailed study plan is essential for staying organized and focused. Start by breaking down your study material into manageable sections. Allocate enough time for each subject, ensuring you cover high-yield topics first. A well-structured plan prevents cramming and ensures that you review all key areas before the exam.

Prioritize High-Yield Content

High-yield content forms the core of the USMLE, making it critical to your success. Focus on subjects like pathology, pharmacology, and microbiology, as these are frequently tested. Prioritize understanding concepts over memorization. By mastering high-yield content, you increase your chances of scoring well and feeling confident during the exam.

Use Trusted Study Resources

Choosing the right study materials is key to efficient preparation. Resources like First Aid for the USMLE, UWorld, and Pathoma are popular and highly regarded. These resources focus on essential topics and provide practice questions and explanations. Utilizing well-known materials ensures you stay aligned with the actual exam format.

Incorporate Active Recall and Spaced Repetition

Active recall and spaced repetition are proven learning techniques that enhance retention. Instead of passively reviewing notes, test yourself frequently. Flashcards, self-quizzing, and spaced repetition software can help reinforce key concepts. Revisit material at spaced intervals to ensure long-term retention and improve recall during the exam.

Take Regular Practice Exams

Practice exams are an effective way to simulate the real test environment. Regularly take full-length practice exams to improve your timing and accuracy. Analyze your mistakes after each practice session to identify weak areas. Use practice exams to measure your progress and adjust your study plan as needed.

Focus on Clinical Vignettes

Clinical vignettes make up a significant portion of the USMLE Step 2 and Step 3 exams. These questions assess your ability to apply medical knowledge to real-world scenarios. Practice reading and solving clinical cases to strengthen your diagnostic and clinical reasoning skills. Regular practice builds confidence in handling these complex questions.

Stay Consistent with Study Sessions

Consistency is crucial when preparing for the USMLE. Instead of cramming the night before the exam, study regularly over a longer period. Stick to a routine that includes daily study sessions, with breaks to avoid burnout. Consistent effort ensures gradual learning and prevents overwhelming yourself in the weeks leading to the exam.

Use Study Groups for Peer Support

Study groups offer a collaborative way to enhance learning. Discussing complex topics with peers helps reinforce your understanding and exposes you to different perspectives. Study groups can also provide motivation and accountability, as you encourage each other to stay on track. Be sure to keep sessions focused and productive.

Take Care of Your Health

Your physical and mental well-being plays a major role in your ability to study effectively. Exercise regularly, eat nutritious meals, and get plenty of sleep. Managing stress through relaxation techniques like meditation or mindfulness can improve focus and reduce anxiety. A healthy body and mind contribute to better performance.

Stay Positive and Stay Motivated

The USMLE is a long and challenging journey, so maintaining a positive mindset is crucial. Stay focused on your goals and celebrate small successes along the way. Remind yourself why you’re pursuing medicine and how far you’ve come. Motivation will help you power through tough study sessions and stay dedicated.

Conclusion: Plan, Prepare, and Perform

Efficient USMLE preparation requires smart planning, consistent effort, and the use of effective study strategies. By developing a study plan, prioritizing high-yield topics, practicing with exams, and taking care of your health, you will be well-equipped for success. Approach the exam with confidence, and your hard work will pay off.

[secrets4exams]

What Common Mistakes Should Be Avoided During Examination Preparation?

Cramming is a very poor method, even if it could appear like a rapid way to learn a lot of material immediately before the test. Only by developing regular, long-term study habits such as spaced repetition, active recall, and practice tests can the brain effectively retain the material. Cramming frequently results in stress, poor memory, and trouble comprehending difficult concepts all of which are essential for a thorough medical test such as the USMLE. How Do You Manage Time Effectively While Preparing For Step 1 Of The USMLE? Everyone ought to need efficient time management when attempting to prepare for USMLE Step 1. Making an extensive learning plan that dedicates particular time frames for every subject and ensures that every topic is covered fairly is one of the finest strategies. First, understand your subject of strength and weakness top priority but don't ignore the less important ones. Use efficiency and stress-reduction strategies to stay on track, assess your progress daily, and adjust your plan of action as needed. 1. Techniques to Boost Your Score: Use active learning strategies like spaced repetition and active recall to improve your examination preparation score. In contrast, just reading or highlighting for remembering actively involves testing oneself on the material to enhance memory formation and knowledge. Understanding may be conveyed from short-term to long-term memory more easily through spaced repetition which involves going over material at successively longer intervals. 2. Effective Study Strategies: Systematic planning, active learning, and concentrated practice are all necessary for extremely successful MRCPCH exam preparation techniques. Begin by educating yourself with the exam material and dividing it into manageable sections. To clear up questions and improve your comprehension, schedule study sessions, or peer conversations. Finding a balance between study time and appropriate relaxation with taking care of yourself is also necessary to keep your attention through your preparation without becoming stressed. 3. Reducing Stress of marks: Test preparation applications may be a helpful tool to minimize grade-related stress by providing structure, organization, and easy access to study resources. You may make customized study schedules with a variety of apps, which can help you break up your study sessions into smaller, easier-to-manage chunks and reduce feelings of overwhelm. Features like progress tracking and reminders can help you remain inspired and on course. In conclusion, Studying for the USMLE or any other medical exam needs dedication, regularity, and an approach that is rational. By using the right resources, keeping up with a study schedule, and using effective methods for taking tests, candidates can improve their chances of success.

[smashusmle-reviews]

Secrets to passing the USMLE with team SmashUSMLE

Team SmashUSMLE is known for providing high-yield strategies and resources to help students excel in the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE). While specific “secrets” might be proprietary to their courses and study materials, here are general tips inspired by their teaching philosophy and commonly emphasized strategies:

1. Master the Foundations

Focus on First Aid for the USMLE: This book is the go-to resource for Step 1. Pair it with other high-yield resources like Pathoma (for pathology) and Sketchy (for microbiology and pharmacology).

Understand, Don’t Memorize: SmashUSMLE emphasizes understanding key concepts instead of rote memorization, especially for subjects like physiology and pharmacology.

2. Use Practice Questions Effectively

UWorld Question Bank: Make this your primary question bank. Practice questions are not just for assessing knowledge but also for learning.

Review Explanations Thoroughly: SmashUSMLE often stresses the importance of understanding why the right answer is correct and why others are wrong.

NBME Practice Exams: Take these periodically to gauge your progress and simulate test-day conditions.

3. Adopt a Strategic Study Plan

Create a Detailed Schedule: Plan your study blocks to cover all topics, with time for reviews and practice tests.

Active Recall and Spaced Repetition: Use tools like Anki for long-term retention of key concepts and facts.

Focus on High-Yield Topics: Don’t waste time on obscure details. SmashUSMLE is known for narrowing down high-yield material for quick and effective learning.

4. Understand the Test-Taking Strategy

Eliminate Wrong Answers: Even if you don’t know the answer, learn to narrow it down by excluding incorrect options.

Pace Yourself: Practice managing your time during question blocks to avoid rushing or leaving questions unanswered.

Learn to Analyze Vignettes: Develop the skill to quickly identify the key details in clinical scenarios.

5. Stay Consistent and Motivated

Daily Commitment: Dedicate consistent hours daily to studying, even if it’s just incremental progress.

Stay Positive: SmashUSMLE emphasizes staying motivated and believing in your ability to succeed.

Seek Support: Join forums or study groups to discuss challenging topics and share insights.

6. Use Resources Wisely

SmashUSMLE provides tailored video lectures, flashcards, and tutoring, focusing on high-yield content. Integrate these tools if they align with your learning style. You can combine their materials with other trusted resources like:

Pathoma (pathology)

Sketchy Medical (microbiology and pharmacology)

Boards & Beyond (comprehensive review)

7. Simulate Test Conditions

Take full-length practice tests under exam-like conditions.

Build stamina to handle the exam’s length and intensity.

8. Self-Care is Key

Prioritize sleep, exercise, and proper nutrition.

Take breaks to prevent burnout.

SmashUSMLE is an online educational platform designed to help medical students and graduates prepare for the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE), including Steps 1, 2 CK, and 3. The program was founded by Dr. Adesina, a practicing physician with a passion for teaching and helping students achieve their medical career goals.

Visit https://www.smashusmle.com/reviews/ for more details!

[mcatpromax12]

Mastering USMLE Step 1: Your Ultimate Guide with Step 1 Premium Recalls Package 2024-2025

Introduction: Embarking on your journey to becoming a medical professional? Dive into our comprehensive guide to conquering the USMLE Step 1 exam, the first milestone on your path to success. With the Step 1 Premium Recalls Package 2024-2025 at your fingertips, you'll be equipped with the tools and knowledge you need to excel.

Section 1: Understanding USMLE Step 1 Discover the importance of USMLE Step 1 and why it's crucial to approach this exam with dedication and focus. Learn how success on Step 1 sets the stage for your future endeavors in the medical field.

Section 2: Exam Format Demystified Gain insight into the format of the USMLE Step 1 exam, including its structure, duration, and question types. Familiarize yourself with the exam interface through our interactive testing experience.

Section 3: Passing Criteria Decoded Uncover the passing criteria for Step 1 and explore strategies for achieving a score that reflects your knowledge and capabilities. Learn how to navigate the exam confidently and effectively.

Section 4: Strategic Preparation Strategies Explore expert tips for strategically preparing for Step 1, including when to start studying and how to select the best resources. Maximize your study time and optimize your learning experience with proven strategies.

Section 5: Top Resources for Success Browse through our curated list of top resources for Step 1 preparation, including qbanks, video lessons, review books, and mnemonic aids. Find the resources that align with your learning style and preferences.

Section 6: YouTube Channel Recommendations Enhance your understanding of key Step 1 concepts with recommended YouTube channels specializing in relevant topics. Access valuable insights and visual aids to supplement your studies and reinforce your knowledge.

Section 7: Proven Study Schedules Access pre-designed study schedules tailored to your timeline, whether you have nine weeks or ten. Follow structured approaches to ensure maximum productivity and retention during your dedicated study period.

Section 8: Inspiring Success Stories Draw inspiration from real-life success stories shared by students who have conquered Step 1 using various study methods and resources. Learn from their experiences and apply their strategies to your own preparation journey.

Section 9: Score Release and Next Steps Prepare for score release day and understand what to expect, whether you pass or fail. Stay informed about score result delays and take proactive steps to navigate your Step 1 journey with confidence.

Conclusion: With the Step 1 Premium Recalls Package 2024-2025 and our comprehensive guide, you have everything you need to succeed on the USMLE Step 1 exam. Empower yourself with knowledge, stay focused, and embark on your journey to medical excellence. Your success story begins here!

#USMLE #Step1 #MedicalSchool #MedEd #StudyTips #ExamPrep #MedicalStudents #FutureDoctors #Step1PremiumRecalls #USMLE2024 #USMLE2025 #MedicalEducation #StudyGuide #SuccessStories #StudySchedule #ResourceRecommendations #Tumbler

[koncptnext]

What NEXT for NEXT / EXIT Exam?

               NEXT / EXIT Exam is planned to give license to practise & qualifying exam for PG programme. If a medical student clear NEXT / EXIT Exam, then only he will be eligible to register to practise. NEXT / EXIT Exam soon will replace,

1.       AIIMS, JIPMER, PGI exam

2.       Screening exam – FMGE

3.       NEET PG Exam

NEXT Exam will be based on clinical science subjects

NEXT – 1 (@ end of Final MBBS – in March) – All India Exam

·         Includes

o   Part A

o   Part B

o   Part C

·         MCQS Based - Online Computer Based Test

Part A – Day 1

·         Pre-lunch 3 Hours session

o   Medicine & allied – Including Psychiatry, Dermatology

o   120 items  

·         Post lunch – 1.5 Hours session

o   Pediatrics

o   60 items

Part B – Day 2

·         Pre-lunch – 3 Hours session

o   Surgery & allied – Including Anasthesia, Orthopaedics, Radiology

o   120 items

·         Post lunch – 1.5 Hours session

o   ENT

o   60 Items

Part C – Day 3

·         Pre-lunch – 3 Hours session

o   Obstetrics Gynaecology and allied subjects

o   120 items

·         Post lunch – 1.5 Hours session

o   Opthalmology

o   60 items

Type of questions

·         60% problem solving

·         30% comprehension and analysis

·         10% recall

Note: Out of total on each stream, 10% questions will be from applied basic sciences, and 10% preventive and public health.

Weightage  

·         Applied basics (Pre & Paraclinical) 10%

·         Biostatistics & Public health – 10%

·         Facts 10%

·         Clinical science – 80%

NEXT – 2 (@ end of house surgeoncy in  April) – University based

-          OSCHE Type

FAQs

1.       Q. Which batch onwards will get NEXT Exam?

a.       99.9% for 2018 batch, 50% chance for 2017 batch

2.       Q. Pass percentage?

a.       May be around 75 percentile

3.       Q. How many times exam can be taken if not cleared?

a.       Should be ‘n’ number of times

4.       Q. How many years score will be valid?

a.       2  to 3years        

This is done by

Dr. Antan Uresh Kumar Urologist

CEO - Founder, President Koncpt

www.koncptnext.in, info@koncptnext.in

+91 6384 111 333

Disclaimer: This is an extract of lots of content & prospective thinking of myself to clear doubts about NEXT & make them to read well & head. So this will avoid stress for medical students, if exam comes.

Form a group & read that’s the key for success. In next blog, I will write “How to form an ideal group?”

About Dr. Antan Uresh Kumar Urologist:

          He is a very good motivator. He did his UG 1998 batch @ KMC, MS GS @ Stanley 2005 batch - AIPG Rank 453, MCh @ Madras Medical College. He is Gold medallist in General Surgery, University rank 4 in Anatomy, top scorer in USMLE (Step 1 – 94%, Step – 2 97 percentile). He is a sportsman - he plays volley ball, shuttle. He is a NCC C Certificate holder. He is a leader for medicos. His motivation will be a real blessing for dear UG students who are really craving for it. He is an entrepreneur – playing academic role, laparoscopic transplant surgeon, leader for people. He cares for the MBBS Students who are going to face tough competitive exam that is EXIT Exam / NEXT Exam shortly.

  All The Best!!!

[acatex]

Hey Snarklings!

  Are you surprised that I’m still alive? I know I am (lols am I even relevant anymore?) Before I get into my whole MCAT prep strategy, I just wanted to say that I’m sorry for leaving you guys in the dust. I have been very stressed lately and I just felt like I was letting you guys down which was why I made a really hard (but spontaneous) decision on my academic career. Of course I cannot comment right now on what I did/planning to do, but an upcoming blog post would be up in the next couple of days to explain the whole grey area that I was stuck in. Okay, it’s time to put away the tissue boxes and dive into every pre-meds worse nightmare: The Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT)

Disclaimer: This is my method and it may or may not work for you, so please take it with a grain of salt because, the way that I learn may be different from you, but it is a good idea to see how others approach this scary test.

What is the MCAT?

In short, the MCAT is a standardized test taken on a computer program to measure a prospective medical student’s potential to succeed medical school. Think of it as foreshadow of one’s ability to do well on painstakingly long exams that are cut up into blocks: Since most of medical schools in the US and Canada require doctors in training to take many board exams that can be 8-9 hours long.

Another reason why the MCAT is administered is to see whether the applicant can use background knowledge of the subject (biochemistry, biology, chemistry, psychology/sociology, physics, critical reasoning skills, etc) and integrate with other sciences to synthesize and draw an objective answer to a novel/unknown situation. This makes the MCAT different from others standardized tests such as SAT or ACT since these tests are more on memory recall and regurgitation, while the MCAT is more on integration and application to unknown situations. Think of it like this, when a doctor walks into a patient’s room, they know some things (the knowledge they’ve been taught in med school) and there’s probably things that they don’t know about a patient’s health, but when a doctor integrates what he/she knows and connect it to the unknown they can solve problems.

  What is the MCAT tested on?

Since, one of the reasons why the MCAT is administered is to test your endurance on future medical school board exams such as: USMLE step 1, step 2 CK, step 2 CS, Step 3  if you are in the United States or the MCCEE, NAC, MCCQE part 1, MCCQE part 2 in (Canadian boards), and Comlex Level 1, Level 2CE, Level 2PE, Level 3 (Osteopathic med schools/DO). They do this by testing you on undergraduate courses and are broken down into 4 sections/blocks

Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems

Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS)

Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems

Psychological, Social and Biological Foundations of Behaviour

  Prior to Taking the MCAT

I highly recommend taking the required courses before taking the MCAT. The AAMC recommends to take the following pre-med classes:

Introductory (first year) Biology (2 semesters/1 year)

Introductory/General Chemistry (2 semesters/1 year)

Organic chemistry (2 semesters/1 year)

Biochemistry (1 semester)

Introductory Physics (2 semesters/1 year)

Psychology (1 semester)

Sociology (1 semester)

Now I never took a sociology class and I am planning on taking physics in my upcoming (and last) school year of uni. But that doesn’t really matter since you can just self study for it.

  Resources?

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So MCAT prep cannot be MCAT prep without a good set of MCAT books for you to review on. Now, there are many MCAT companies out there and a lot of people are confused on which one they would get to the point that everyone keeps on asking the same question: What books are YOU using? Hey, are those books good? Listen, your success on the MCAT does not depend on what company that you choose to get your books from. Why? Because it is you and how well you reviewed and practice those questions on a DAILY BASIS. I know people who got into med school by using Kaplan, I know people who got rejected who used Kaplan, and the same goes for other prep companies such as The Princeton Review, Examkrackers, The Berkely Review, etc. It doesn’t matter. Just pick one and stick with one. Do not. I repeat. DO NOT BUY TWO BOOKS OF THE SAME SUBJECT BECAUSE YOU THINK THAT ONE COMPANY DOES A BETTER “JOB.’ Again, It is you who will determine your own success, not a book.

Now, for me, I was about to buy the Kaplan MCAT series but, my mother surpised me on my 21st birthday with the NextStep MCAT Content Review and Practice Passages. At first, I was bummed out but as I went along, I realized that the books are doing its job: Helping me review what I learned in undergrad (wipes tears away; literally every time I turn a page I get flashbacks). And the best part is: It was free since it was my birthday gift so I did not have to spend a dime.

When I found something that I did not fully understand or the book did not give me a detailed answer I usually used Khan Academy videos (There’s a whole section just for the MCAT with practice problems). Other videos/channels worth mentioning:

AK Lectures for biochemistry and general chemistry (his explanations for thermodynamics is so straight to the point, they’re super clutch)

The Organic Chemistry Tutor: MCAT Test Prep General Chemistry Review Study Guide Part 1 and MCAT General Chemistry Lectures Review Prep Part 2 – Equations & Practice Questions

Leah4SciMCAT for doing MCAT Math Without a Calculator and Amino Acids for MCAT/Biochem students. I also looked at Fischer Projections for MCAT Orgo and Biochemistry which helped so much since she sues fun mnemonics and straight to the point concepts that just makes the learning fun and easy.

Bozeman science for their anatomy and physiology sections for every organ system mentioned in the biology MCAT book. I also looked at a video or two from the AP chemistry, AP biology, and AP physics (which I remembered fondly back in high school and so I’m familiar with them thus, I didn’t look at every video but just ones that I had trouble with, ex: transcription vs translation.)

  My method for studying: I tend to study in rotations or two chapters of the same subject a day until completion. The image below is how that looks like in my mini day planner:

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Since I do not have a job nor am I in school during the summer I was able to study for 8 hours a day and found myself going through rotations quicker than I expected. Before I go to bed I reviewed what I learned and anything that I do not finished I would have to finish in the morning before starting a new rotation.

  Active Learning

So when I start a new chapter I use my metacognitive abilities: What do I know vs what do I don’t know.

Let’s take the endocrine system as an example. I know that the endocrine is invovled in hormone secretion and regulation of the metabolic oathways that maintains homeostasis. I know an example of this would be aldosterone (a steroid hormone) and vasopressin (a peptide) hormone helps regulate homeostasis by repsonding to low fluid levels and by increasing fluid retention. But what I do not know is how exactly they achieve this: thus when I’m studying that’s my goal or my purpose. I am learning to apply and find answers to my questions.

Every time a paragraph says something about a hormone I would turn it into a question and write the answer in my own words. Here’s an example on tropic versus non tropic hormones:

In orange I wrote the section of the chapter: Regulation

I wrote a capital Q for question and A for answer.

And sometimes I write a little flow chart for easy summary of what I learned

The reason why I used this system was for 3 reasons: (1) By writing out the section in a different colour, it acts as a study guide (you know with all the topics/questions pertaining to one part of the chapter for a test). (2) Turning the info in a paragraph into a question and answers makes it interactive and makes you think about what you are learning; sort of like flashcards. I would cover the answer portion with another piece of paper and just talk/aggressively whisper out the answer (the answer doesn’t have to be word by word but just similar to what it is). (3) When it is time for revision: Your notes are in a Q/A format or like test which is better than writing a bunch of notes and just passively looking over.

Here’s another one on the hypothalamus-anterior pituitary-adrenal cortex axis (HPA)

As you can see I love flow charts for sequential pathways and showing the cause and effects of each step (what increases or decreases, which hormone is involved, etc)

I will write a more detailed post on what I put into my MCAT notebooks and what I look for when reading or extracting information from the review books. So just hold on and be patient.

  Practice, Practice, Practice

Knowledge is power but practice makes perfect. Remember that the MCAT will not really test your ability to recall facts straight from the book; this is not a trivia show. It is your ability to apply known information (your MCAT content review) and integrate them with other information in an unknown situation (the MCAT passages). That’s why I like that my MCAT books have practice passages at the end of each chapter. I also bought extra practice passages from NextStep because they really do help me understand the content and the timing. If you do not have practice passages right now, go to the Khan academy MCAT section and there’s loads of them (but they are really easy though).

Also, I really enjoyed watching videos on YouTube on how to approach passages and seeing what other people’s strategies and methods are. I tend to integrate what others do with my own method, but everyone is different so just take it with a grain of salt. Here are a couple of my favorite Youtubers, one of which is actually my best friend.

Amanda and Rich Show: MCAT Biology Passage Breakdown

CurveSetter: MCAT 2015 Biochemistry Tutorial 1 (Amino Acids) – CurveSetter Tutoring

CurveSetter: MCAT Biology/Biochemistry Passage Analysis (Acetylcholine) – CurveSetter MCAT Prep

CurveSetter: MCAT 2015 Chemistry Tutorial 3 (Titration Passage) – CurveSetter Tutoring

CurveSetter: MCAT 2015 Chemistry/Physics Selected MC 1 – CurveSetter Tutoring

CurveSetter: Electricity and Magnetism MCAT Physics Passage – CurveSetter MCAT Prep

CurveSetter: MCAT 2015 Biology Tutorial 1 (Neuron Passage) – CurveSetter Tutoring

CurveSetter: MCAT 2015 CARS Tutorial 1 (Passage) – CurveSetter Tutoring

CurveSetter: MCAT 2015 CARS Tutorial 1 (Questions) – CurveSetter Tutoring

SecondChance MCAT: MCAT Science Passage Breakdown #1

SecondChance MCAT: Full MCAT CARS Passage Breakdown (98% CARS Scorer)

Bless her Health: CARS WORKSHOP 08/24

Bless her Health: CARS WORKSHOP 08/28

  After going through a few passages or so, review your mistakes! Then again look up your Q/A notes and see where you went wrong. When you do this, you’re allocating your attention areas that need it. This really helped me retain information whilst, practicing applying concepts with other concepts. Another reason why, is that the questions on the MCAT are really different from your college classes. Again, you’re not regurgitating facts out, you’re applying what you know with what you don’t know by looking at superficial similarities and coming up with the best answer. Since this is a new skill, the only way to learn it is through practice.

I am planning on making a post about how I breakdown science and CARS passages as well so stay tuned.

Spaced Repetition Is Key

One of the keys to success for the MCAT is repetition for retention. If you do not review, you will forget it. That’s why I always made sure that after a section of a chapter I would look over what I had so far and really try to understand what I just learned and see how it relates to other chapters or to the other subjects in one way or another to get the BIG PICTURE. Then, before I go to sleep I will look over at the chapter again as a whole and annotate anything that I think needs more detail. Then the next day before starting a new chapter, I quickly look at all the previous chapters by talking aloud (or aggressively whispering if you’re around people, sorry to the girl at Starbucks who has to put up with my) and just make connections to it. Over time, I looked at all the previous chapters so much that I can recall many concepts.

Review while making your Q/A notes

review after making your Q/A notes

Look at your Q/A notes before you go to bed

Before starting a new chapter, look at all the previous Q/A notes to refresh your memory

1 day later look at your old Q/A notes then maybe 3 days later do it again

Congratulations, all the info you’ve mastered are now stored in your long term memory. It is permanent until you die (unless if you get amnesia).

  I hope this helps make up for my absence and don’t worry, I will post more on MCAT prep. So ciao for now, and stay flossy everyone.

  How I Prepare for the MCAT Part 1 Hey Snarklings! Are you surprised that I'm still alive? I know I am (lols am I even relevant anymore?) Before I get into my whole MCAT prep strategy, I just wanted to say that I'm sorry for leaving you guys in the dust.

[recallmastery]

Unlock Success with the Latest USMLE Recalls Update | Recall Mastery

Discover the power of Recall Mastery with the most recent Usmle Recalls Latest Update. Access the invaluable USMLE Recalls PDF to enhance your exam preparation. Elevate your medical knowledge with curated insights and recall strategies, ensuring you're primed for success. Stay ahead of the curve by tapping into the latest trends and patterns observed in the USMLE exams. Trust Recall Mastery to optimize your study approach and reinforce critical concepts. Download the USMLE Recalls PDF for a comprehensive review, arming yourself with the tools needed to excel in your medical journey. Your success begins with the precision of Recall Mastery's up-to-date resources.

Visit Blog:                   https://recallmastery.blogspot.com/2023/11/usmle-recalls-latest-update.html

Business Name:        Recall Mastery   

Contact No:               +16693223444

Location:                    United State

[mdramblings]

Road to Step 1 2018: Leggoo

And so it begins, my road to Step 1 and more importantly the daunting yet undoubtedly great journey to residency is officially a go!

Time, and time again, I’ve heard infamous tales of students who pick too many resources for Step 1 and end up shooting themselves in the foot. So between my serious FOMO and hoarding complexes, I’ve had to become particularly strict in the selection process of my USMLE resources. After reading endless forums, watching dozens of med vlogs and becoming virtually a free trial scavenger; I’m proud to say I have finally managed to create a feasible study schedule

Getting to this point has taken a great deal of thought, and now that the first order of business has been taken care of. I think it’s only fitting I share the resources I deemed most worthy for the feat, and ultimately made the cut:

Main (Daily) Resources:

1. First Aid (FA) USMLE STEP 1 (2017): A no brainer - the USMLE bible... if you don’t know now you know.

2. Pathoma: Between the shear amount and intertwining clinical complexities; it is no wonder that pathology is the USMLE’s top gun. Pathoma’s integrated yet succinct approach to teaching the subject make these videos invaluable. 

3. Boards & Beyond: All your non-patho material in one place, undoubtedly one of the best kept secrets in my opinion. 

Seriously God bless Dr. Jason Ryan for BB and Dr. Husain Sattar for Pathoma - you guys are heaven sent. 

4. Bros Anki Deck = Pre-made FCs on basically everything. As someone who doesn’t have a photographic memory; spaced learning using this deck is a quintessential part of my learning. 

5. UWorld Q Bank = The Holy Grail -  be ready it’ll have you pulling out the big bucks, but don’t think twice because this one is an absolutely must have for USMLE prep.  

6. USMLE Rx Q Bank = I find the best way to learn and make sure I really know something is to test myself. Would say this is more open to preferential choice but I personally find it to be a good tool to concurrently check my FA learning as it is created by the same people that make First Aid. 

Add. Revision Material:

- Robbins & Cotran - Review of Pathology

- FA Q&A

- FA Case Files

Add. Background Review:

- FA BS General Principles

- FA BS Organ Systems

- BRS Physiology

- Kaplan Anatomy, Anatomy Recall & Anatomy Coloring Book 

- HY Neuroanatomy

- Sketchy Micro

- Sketchy Pharma & Class Notes (Based on Lippincotts)

P.S. Be sure to check out my upcoming vlog post detailing how I integrate all these resources to study for Step on AsToldByPala.com.

Dreams Dont Work Unless You Do.

Road To Step 1 2018.

Follow The Journey.

...to infinity and beyond.

Blessed Christmas & A Happy New Year!!!

[smashusmle-reviews]

SmashUSMLE Reviews - How Difficult to Crack USMLE Examination

The United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) is widely regarded as challenging due to its rigorous testing of medical knowledge, clinical reasoning, and application skills required to practice medicine in the United States.

Contact SmashUSMLE Reviews team for instant guidence.

Here’s an overview of what makes the USMLE difficult and what candidates need to consider when preparing for it:

1. Multiple Steps with Different Focus Areas

Step 1: This first exam focuses on foundational medical sciences, including biochemistry, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, microbiology, and anatomy. The difficulty of Step 1 lies in the vast amount of material and the depth of understanding required.

Step 2 CK (Clinical Knowledge): Step 2 CK tests clinical knowledge in real-world scenarios, requiring knowledge of diagnosis, treatment, and patient management. Its questions require not only memorization but also the ability to apply knowledge in a clinical context.

Step 3: This final step is taken by those who have graduated from medical school and tests whether a candidate can manage patients independently. It assesses clinical judgment and decision-making skills over two days, with both multiple-choice questions and case simulations, making it uniquely challenging.

2. Broad Range of Topics

Volume of Information: Each step of the USMLE covers an extensive range of medical topics. It requires deep understanding and retention of a wide array of medical knowledge.

Complexity of Topics: Many of the topics are complex and interconnected, requiring not only understanding of each subject area but also the ability to integrate and apply this knowledge effectively.

3. High Standards and Competitiveness

Strict Passing Scores: Although the USMLE is a pass/fail exam, scoring highly, particularly on Step 1, is essential for those who aspire to competitive residency programs. For international medical graduates (IMGs), higher scores are often needed to match with top programs.

Residency Program Expectations: USMLE scores are an important factor in residency applications, so many candidates aim not only to pass but to score as high as possible, adding pressure to perform well.

4. Question Complexity and Format

Application-Based Questions: Questions often require critical thinking, analysis, and application rather than rote memorization. Many questions present clinical vignettes where candidates must diagnose and manage patients, making them more difficult than straightforward recall questions.

Time Constraints: The exams are long, with multiple blocks of questions that can lead to mental fatigue. Candidates need to manage their time efficiently within each block to ensure they complete all questions.

5. Preparation Time and Resources Required

Extensive Preparation: Preparing for the USMLE requires months of dedicated study, often with structured schedules and extensive use of resources such as review books, question banks, and prep courses.

Consistency and Discipline: Due to the volume and complexity of material, maintaining a consistent and disciplined study routine is necessary. Many candidates find it challenging to sustain this over the long months of preparation.

6. Testing Endurance and Stress Management

Long Exam Days: Each step of the USMLE is a day-long (or even two-day-long) exam. The mental and physical endurance required is substantial, as candidates must remain focused for hours.

Stress and Pressure: The stakes are high, as the results have significant implications for medical careers. Managing stress effectively is crucial to perform well on the exam.

7. High Failure Rates for IMGs

Additional Challenges for International Graduates: IMGs often face additional challenges, including differences in medical education systems, limited access to USMLE-preparation resources, and the need to adapt to the clinical standards expected in the US. This makes the exam particularly challenging for them.

8. Frequent Content Updates

Evolving Medical Knowledge: The USMLE is regularly updated to reflect new medical knowledge and standards of care, requiring candidates to stay up-to-date on the latest information.

Adaptability: Candidates must be adaptable and ready to study new material or updates, even if they were previously well-versed in a topic.

Tips for Success on the USMLE:

Start Early: Begin studying well in advance to manage the volume of material.

Use Quality Resources: Invest in highly-rated study resources, such as First Aid, UWorld, and NBME practice exams, which simulate the style and difficulty of the actual test.

Practice with Timed Tests: Regularly practicing under timed conditions can help improve time management and build endurance.

Focus on Weak Areas: Prioritize areas where you have the most difficulty to maximize score improvement.

Develop a Study Schedule: A structured study plan with daily or weekly goals can help you cover all topics effectively.

Take Care of Mental and Physical Health: Regular breaks, exercise, and adequate sleep are essential for staying focused and avoiding burnout.

In Summary

The USMLE is a difficult examination series that requires deep knowledge, critical thinking, and extensive preparation. However, with careful planning, consistent study, and the right resources, many candidates are able to succeed. Despite the challenges, passing the USMLE opens doors to practicing medicine in the United States, making the effort worthwhile for those pursuing a career in the US healthcare system.

Your SmashUSMLE Reviews education partner!

[mcatpromax12]

USMLE Step 1 and Step 2Ck Recalls/Biopsies /Past papers 2023

Title: Mastering USMLE Step 1 and Step 2CK: Unveiling the Hottest Recalls, Biopsies, and Past Papers of 2023!Hey, USMLE warriors! 📚💪 Are you ready to conquer the USMLE Step 1 and Step 2CK exams with confidence? Well, you've come to the right place! Today, we're diving deep into the treasure trove of the hottest recalls, biopsies, and past papers for 2023, so you can skyrocket your exam preparation to the next level. Let's embark on this incredible journey together!🔍 Recalls: Unlock the Power of Retention 🔍Recalls are gold mines when it comes to USMLE preparation. They offer a unique opportunity to tap into the collective wisdom of previous test-takers. From the most challenging questions to the hidden gems that frequently appear on the exam, we've got you covered. Our community has painstakingly curated a comprehensive list of the most relevant recalls for Step 1 and Step 2CK in 2023. Prepare to immerse yourself in the ultimate recall extravaganza!🔬 Biopsies: Diagnostic Insights for Success 🔬Biopsies serve as invaluable diagnostic tools, and the same goes for your USMLE journey! We understand the importance of gaining exposure to real-life scenarios, which is why we've gathered a plethora of biopsies specifically tailored to the USMLE Step 1 and Step 2CK exams. These challenging case studies will sharpen your clinical reasoning skills, enhance your problem-solving abilities, and ensure you're well-prepared to handle any curveballs that may come your way.📜 Past Papers: Unleashing the Power of History 📜Learning from the past is the key to shaping your future success. Our collection of past papers will take you on a time-traveling adventure through previous years' USMLE exams. By analyzing patterns, identifying recurring topics, and honing your test-taking strategies, you'll be equipped with the essential tools to triumph over any obstacle. Let these past papers be your guide as you navigate the intricacies of the Step 1 and Step 2CK exams in 2023.💡 Unlock Your Potential with Our Comprehensive Resource Library 💡But wait, there's more! Alongside the remarkable recalls, biopsies, and past papers, our platform boasts an extensive resource library that covers all essential topics tested on the USMLE exams. From high-yield notes and mnemonics to interactive quizzes and video lectures, we're committed to providing you with a holistic learning experience.🏆 Join Our Thriving Community of Future Physicians 🏆Preparing for the USMLE exams can be a daunting task, but remember, you're not alone! Join our vibrant community of aspiring physicians, where you can share experiences, exchange study tips, and find the motivation you need to stay on track. Together, we can conquer the USMLE mountain and emerge victorious!🌟 Don't Miss Out on the USMLE Success Train! 🌟As the clock ticks closer to 2023, it's time to level up your USMLE preparation with the hottest recalls, biopsies, and past papers that will put you on the path to success. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to ace your exams and pave the way for your medical career. Hop on board and let's make 2023 the year of triumph!#USMLE2023 #Step1 #Step2CK #Recalls #Biopsies #PastPapers #USMLEPreparation #MedicalStudents #FuturePhysicians #StudySmart

[usmlestudy]

USMLE Step 2 Recall 2nd Edition PDF #usmle-exam https://cstu.io/61dbd7

[kristinsimmons]

What’s on USMLE Step 1?

By BRYAN CARMODY

Recently, I was on The Accad and Koka Report to share my opinions on USMLE Step 1 scoring policy. (If you’re interested, you can listen to the episode on the show website or iTunes.)

Most of the topics we discussed were ones I’ve already dissected on this site. But there was an interesting moment in the show, right around the 37:30 mark, that raises an important point that is worthy of further analysis.

__

ANISH: There’s also the fact that nobody is twisting the arms of program directors to use [USMLE Step 1] scores, correct? Even in an era when you had clinical grades reported, there’s still seems to be value that PDs attach to these scores. . . There’s no regulatory agency that’s forcing PDs to do that. So if PDs want to use, you know, a number on a test to determine who should best make up their class, why are you against that?

BRYAN: I’m not necessarily against that if you make that as a reasoned decision. I would challenge a few things about it, though. I guess the first question is, what do you think is on USMLE Step 1 that is meaningful?

ANISH: Well – um – yeah…

BRYAN: What do you think is on that test that makes it a meaningful metric?

ANISH: I – I don’t- I don’t think that – I don’t know that memorizing… I don’t even remember what was on the USMLE. Was the Krebs Cycle on the USMLE Step 1?

__

I highlight this snippet not to pick on Anish – who was a gracious host, and despite our back-and-forth on Twitter, we actually agreed much more than we disagreed. And as a practicing clinician who is 15 years removed from the exam, I’m not surprised in the least that he doesn’t recall exactly what was on the test.

I highlight this exchange because it illuminates one of the central truths in the #USMLEPassFail debate, and that is this:

Physicians who took Step 1 more than 5 years ago honestly don’t have a clue about what is tested on the exam.

That’s not because the content has changed. It’s because the memories of minutiae fade over time, leaving behind the false memory of a test that was more useful than it really was.

I’m speaking from experience here.

CONFESSIONS OF A FORMER STEP 1 APOLOGIST

Believe it or not, I was once a USMLE apologist. If you’d asked me my opinion of Step 1 a few years ago, I would have said “Yeah, it’s not the best, but it’s the best we’ve got…” and parroted back many of the same arguments for a scored test that are still bandied about today.

My opinion started to change a few years ago when I started teaching some courses for our first- and second-year medical students. I wanted to be sure that the concepts and terminology I used were consistent with what they needed to know for the USMLE, so I reviewed a whole bunch of Step 1 questions using the NBME’s Computerized Assessment System (CAS).

As I answered question after question, three broad categories of questions emerged.

CORE SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS: Many questions I knew cold. These questions tested key aspects of physiology, pharmacology, or pathology that I use frequently to take care of patients.

A LITTLE OFF THE BEATEN PATH: Another group of questions were more challenging. They asked about basic science concepts with only peripheral relevance to the practice of nephrology. Some of these I got right; some I got wrong. Most stirred up a dormant memory of facts that I might have known during my own Step 1 studying.

BASIC SCIENCE TRIVIA: A final group of questions were completely foreign. Not only did I not know them, but I had no memory of there ever being a time in my life when I would have known them. For these, it was hard to even conceive of how such information could be clinically useful.

I’d like to share examples of these questions to you. However, to gain access to CAS, I signed a blood oath confidentiality agreement with the NBME that I would not disclose the questions within, and I am going to honor that.

However… the USMLE does provide some real USMLE Step 1 sample questions to the general public. I reviewed just the first block (questions 1-40) and highlighted some of the best below.

SAMPLE QUESTION 1

You might think that the makers of a mandatory medical licensing examination would be interested in determining whether doctors-to-be knew how to keep this poor guy from dying in the first place. Nah. For Step 1, let’s just figure out who knows how this cell got here.

(The correct answer, in case you were wondering, is B.)

_

SAMPLE QUESTION 2

What I love about this question is the way it lures you in with a totally-believable clinical vignette. Is it a question about burn care? Infection prevention? Indications for debridement? Nope. Hope you memorized your cytokines! If not, the correct answer is E.

_

SAMPLE QUESTION 3

Whoa. Not to be outdone by Sample Question 2, this question makes multiple head-fakes toward clinically relevant medical decision-making that might benefit a human being… before ending with cellular signaling pathways.

Look, I actually evaluate children suspected to have diabetes insipidus. Never once has it occurred to me to look up this factoid (much less carry it around in my head). But in case your diagnostic algorithm differs from my own, the correct answer is A.

SAMPLE QUESTION 4

Are you sensing a theme here?

As usual, the question stem starts off strong with a vignette on a clinically-relevant entity (RSV bronchiolitis), before diverting into Virology Jeopardy. Is it really the case that all doctors must know, as a condition of licensure, that RSV has a linear, negative-sense RNA genome?

Sigh.

I hopefully guessed answer choice E, thinking that perhaps the USMLE was trying to test a clinically-useful point which I had been heretofore unaware. They weren’t. The correct answer is D.

_

SAMPLE QUESTION 5

I have to at least applaud this question for its lack of pretense. No clinical foreplay at all. It gets straight into the basic science.

And in case it’s been a while since you walked into clinic and did a Southern blot on the digestion products of your patient’s cerebellum and pancreas, the correct answer is C.

HOW’D YOU DO?

Anybody go 5 for 5?

Let me save you a little time on your angry e-mails and address some of the inevitable objections to this little exercise.

YOU CHERRY-PICKED THOSE QUESTIONS.

Yes, I did. But bear in mind, these cherries were plucked from a 40 question block – so these 5 represent 12.5% of the total. (Plus, these are the exemplary questions that the NBME has chosen to release on the sample test. The questions I reviewed on CAS verged even farther into the realm of the obscure.)

And bear in mind, as Step 1 scores climb higher and higher, the questions that are used to discriminate between candidates at the upper end become more and more obscure. Knowing the answers to these kinds of questions may be the difference between a student being able to pursue a career in, say, orthopedic surgery – or not.

So students will study more and more to memorize facts that are less and less useful. And as this process repeats iteratively over residency application cycles, things will get worse and worse – until we demand that something be done about it.

THOSE AREN’T BAD QUESTIONS. I GOT THEM ALL RIGHT.

Cool. Actually, I got two of them right. But that doesn’t keep me from appreciating that the concepts being tested are almost certainly unnecessary for the safe and effective practice of medicine.

THIS MATERIAL ISN’T IRRELEVANT! WHY, JUST YESTERDAY I PRESCRIBED A VEGF INHIBITOR TO A PATIENT IN MY CLINIC.

So why not test the indications for using VEGF inhibitors, or their side effects? Just because the answer to some of these questions relates to something that’s useful doesn’t mean that they’re good questions.

THOSE QUESTIONS AREN’T IRRELEVANT FOR ALL PHYSICIANS. WHAT ABOUT THOSE WHO PURSUE CAREERS IN RESEARCH? SOUTHERN BLOTTING IS QUITE USEFUL!

Let me be clear – none of what I am pointing out here is intended to denigrate basic science or basic scientists. For those of you who work in research, hats off to you. Honestly. But I would put it to you that even those who have made it their life’s mission to understand the Janus kinase weren’t inspired to do so through their Step 1 preparation.

Here’s the thing: the USMLE Step 1 is a licensing examination. Medical licensure exists to protect the public.

And it’s very for me difficult to conceive of a situation in which a patient could be harmed by a physician’s inability to answer any of those questions above. (It’s even more difficult to try to imagine a case in which a patient would benefit by receiving care from a clinician armed with these nuggets of trivia.)

WE DON’T USE STEP 1 SCORES BECAUSE OF THE KNOWLEDGE IT TESTS. WE USE SCORES BECAUSE IT SHOWS US WHAT CANDIDATES HAVE THE BEST WORK ETHIC, TIME MANAGEMENT SKILLS, DETERMINATION, GRIT, ETC.

Then could we not measure those things while engaging students in an endeavor that actually leads to them being a better physician? If it’s really true that the content is irrelevant, why not just ask students to memorize digits of pi?

THE BOTTOM LINE

The “save the scored USMLE” coalition is a varied one.

There are students who perceive that they benefit from a scored test, or who would rather compete with their Step 1 score than by some other metric. There are graduates who worked their butts off to get a high score and have benefitted from it – and they view an attack on Step 1 scores as an attack on their own intelligence or work ethic. There are (cough cough) certain organizations who have a vested financial interest in maintaining a scored test. And there are well-meaning faculty and program directors who aren’t sold on Step 1, but buy into the NBME’s messaging about how anything that could possibly replace Step 1 will be worse.

Some of those objections I get; some, not so much.

If you support maintaining scored test, all I ask is this: know what you’re fighting for. Don’t rely on your own remote experience with Step 1 inform your knowledge about what’s being measured by the Step 1 score.

Dr. Carmody is a pediatric nephrologist and medical educator at Eastern Virginia Medical School. This post originally appeared on The Sheriff of Sodium here.

What’s on USMLE Step 1? published first on https://wittooth.tumblr.com/

[lauramalchowblog]

What’s on USMLE Step 1?

By BRYAN CARMODY

Recently, I was on The Accad and Koka Report to share my opinions on USMLE Step 1 scoring policy. (If you’re interested, you can listen to the episode on the show website or iTunes.)

Most of the topics we discussed were ones I’ve already dissected on this site. But there was an interesting moment in the show, right around the 37:30 mark, that raises an important point that is worthy of further analysis.

__

ANISH: There’s also the fact that nobody is twisting the arms of program directors to use [USMLE Step 1] scores, correct? Even in an era when you had clinical grades reported, there’s still seems to be value that PDs attach to these scores. . . There’s no regulatory agency that’s forcing PDs to do that. So if PDs want to use, you know, a number on a test to determine who should best make up their class, why are you against that?

BRYAN: I’m not necessarily against that if you make that as a reasoned decision. I would challenge a few things about it, though. I guess the first question is, what do you think is on USMLE Step 1 that is meaningful?

ANISH: Well – um – yeah…

BRYAN: What do you think is on that test that makes it a meaningful metric?

ANISH: I – I don’t- I don’t think that – I don’t know that memorizing… I don’t even remember what was on the USMLE. Was the Krebs Cycle on the USMLE Step 1?

__

I highlight this snippet not to pick on Anish – who was a gracious host, and despite our back-and-forth on Twitter, we actually agreed much more than we disagreed. And as a practicing clinician who is 15 years removed from the exam, I’m not surprised in the least that he doesn’t recall exactly what was on the test.

I highlight this exchange because it illuminates one of the central truths in the #USMLEPassFail debate, and that is this:

Physicians who took Step 1 more than 5 years ago honestly don’t have a clue about what is tested on the exam.

That’s not because the content has changed. It’s because the memories of minutiae fade over time, leaving behind the false memory of a test that was more useful than it really was.

I’m speaking from experience here.

CONFESSIONS OF A FORMER STEP 1 APOLOGIST

Believe it or not, I was once a USMLE apologist. If you’d asked me my opinion of Step 1 a few years ago, I would have said “Yeah, it’s not the best, but it’s the best we’ve got…” and parroted back many of the same arguments for a scored test that are still bandied about today.

My opinion started to change a few years ago when I started teaching some courses for our first- and second-year medical students. I wanted to be sure that the concepts and terminology I used were consistent with what they needed to know for the USMLE, so I reviewed a whole bunch of Step 1 questions using the NBME’s Computerized Assessment System (CAS).

As I answered question after question, three broad categories of questions emerged.

CORE SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS: Many questions I knew cold. These questions tested key aspects of physiology, pharmacology, or pathology that I use frequently to take care of patients.

A LITTLE OFF THE BEATEN PATH: Another group of questions were more challenging. They asked about basic science concepts with only peripheral relevance to the practice of nephrology. Some of these I got right; some I got wrong. Most stirred up a dormant memory of facts that I might have known during my own Step 1 studying.

BASIC SCIENCE TRIVIA: A final group of questions were completely foreign. Not only did I not know them, but I had no memory of there ever being a time in my life when I would have known them. For these, it was hard to even conceive of how such information could be clinically useful.

I’d like to share examples of these questions to you. However, to gain access to CAS, I signed a blood oath confidentiality agreement with the NBME that I would not disclose the questions within, and I am going to honor that.

However… the USMLE does provide some real USMLE Step 1 sample questions to the general public. I reviewed just the first block (questions 1-40) and highlighted some of the best below.

SAMPLE QUESTION 1

You might think that the makers of a mandatory medical licensing examination would be interested in determining whether doctors-to-be knew how to keep this poor guy from dying in the first place. Nah. For Step 1, let’s just figure out who knows how this cell got here.

(The correct answer, in case you were wondering, is B.)

_

SAMPLE QUESTION 2

What I love about this question is the way it lures you in with a totally-believable clinical vignette. Is it a question about burn care? Infection prevention? Indications for debridement? Nope. Hope you memorized your cytokines! If not, the correct answer is E.

_

SAMPLE QUESTION 3

Whoa. Not to be outdone by Sample Question 2, this question makes multiple head-fakes toward clinically relevant medical decision-making that might benefit a human being… before ending with cellular signaling pathways.

Look, I actually evaluate children suspected to have diabetes insipidus. Never once has it occurred to me to look up this factoid (much less carry it around in my head). But in case your diagnostic algorithm differs from my own, the correct answer is A.

SAMPLE QUESTION 4

Are you sensing a theme here?

As usual, the question stem starts off strong with a vignette on a clinically-relevant entity (RSV bronchiolitis), before diverting into Virology Jeopardy. Is it really the case that all doctors must know, as a condition of licensure, that RSV has a linear, negative-sense RNA genome?

Sigh.

I hopefully guessed answer choice E, thinking that perhaps the USMLE was trying to test a clinically-useful point which I had been heretofore unaware. They weren’t. The correct answer is D.

_

SAMPLE QUESTION 5

I have to at least applaud this question for its lack of pretense. No clinical foreplay at all. It gets straight into the basic science.

And in case it’s been a while since you walked into clinic and did a Southern blot on the digestion products of your patient’s cerebellum and pancreas, the correct answer is C.

HOW’D YOU DO?

Anybody go 5 for 5?

Let me save you a little time on your angry e-mails and address some of the inevitable objections to this little exercise.

YOU CHERRY-PICKED THOSE QUESTIONS.

Yes, I did. But bear in mind, these cherries were plucked from a 40 question block – so these 5 represent 12.5% of the total. (Plus, these are the exemplary questions that the NBME has chosen to release on the sample test. The questions I reviewed on CAS verged even farther into the realm of the obscure.)

And bear in mind, as Step 1 scores climb higher and higher, the questions that are used to discriminate between candidates at the upper end become more and more obscure. Knowing the answers to these kinds of questions may be the difference between a student being able to pursue a career in, say, orthopedic surgery – or not.

So students will study more and more to memorize facts that are less and less useful. And as this process repeats iteratively over residency application cycles, things will get worse and worse – until we demand that something be done about it.

THOSE AREN’T BAD QUESTIONS. I GOT THEM ALL RIGHT.

Cool. Actually, I got two of them right. But that doesn’t keep me from appreciating that the concepts being tested are almost certainly unnecessary for the safe and effective practice of medicine.

THIS MATERIAL ISN’T IRRELEVANT! WHY, JUST YESTERDAY I PRESCRIBED A VEGF INHIBITOR TO A PATIENT IN MY CLINIC.

So why not test the indications for using VEGF inhibitors, or their side effects? Just because the answer to some of these questions relates to something that’s useful doesn’t mean that they’re good questions.

THOSE QUESTIONS AREN’T IRRELEVANT FOR ALL PHYSICIANS. WHAT ABOUT THOSE WHO PURSUE CAREERS IN RESEARCH? SOUTHERN BLOTTING IS QUITE USEFUL!

Let me be clear – none of what I am pointing out here is intended to denigrate basic science or basic scientists. For those of you who work in research, hats off to you. Honestly. But I would put it to you that even those who have made it their life’s mission to understand the Janus kinase weren’t inspired to do so through their Step 1 preparation.

Here’s the thing: the USMLE Step 1 is a licensing examination. Medical licensure exists to protect the public.

And it’s very for me difficult to conceive of a situation in which a patient could be harmed by a physician’s inability to answer any of those questions above. (It’s even more difficult to try to imagine a case in which a patient would benefit by receiving care from a clinician armed with these nuggets of trivia.)

WE DON’T USE STEP 1 SCORES BECAUSE OF THE KNOWLEDGE IT TESTS. WE USE SCORES BECAUSE IT SHOWS US WHAT CANDIDATES HAVE THE BEST WORK ETHIC, TIME MANAGEMENT SKILLS, DETERMINATION, GRIT, ETC.

Then could we not measure those things while engaging students in an endeavor that actually leads to them being a better physician? If it’s really true that the content is irrelevant, why not just ask students to memorize digits of pi?

THE BOTTOM LINE

The “save the scored USMLE” coalition is a varied one.

There are students who perceive that they benefit from a scored test, or who would rather compete with their Step 1 score than by some other metric. There are graduates who worked their butts off to get a high score and have benefitted from it – and they view an attack on Step 1 scores as an attack on their own intelligence or work ethic. There are (cough cough) certain organizations who have a vested financial interest in maintaining a scored test. And there are well-meaning faculty and program directors who aren’t sold on Step 1, but buy into the NBME’s messaging about how anything that could possibly replace Step 1 will be worse.

Some of those objections I get; some, not so much.

If you support maintaining scored test, all I ask is this: know what you’re fighting for. Don’t rely on your own remote experience with Step 1 inform your knowledge about what’s being measured by the Step 1 score.

Dr. Carmody is a pediatric nephrologist and medical educator at Eastern Virginia Medical School. This post originally appeared on The Sheriff of Sodium here.

What’s on USMLE Step 1? published first on https://venabeahan.tumblr.com

[thepre-medlife]

Tips to Start Second Year Strong and Some Boards Info

Hey there everyone! I’m gonna do my best to start writing again, now that boards are over. I also wanted to just let everyone know the YouTube will be back up and running in no time but I had a tonsillectomy complicated by 4 trips back to the OR!!! As a result, my ability to speak is currently quite limited, but as that returns, so will the videos.

Let me start with a short preface. I am not going to post my boards scores but to give you some “benchmark” on why you would or wouldn't want to trust me, here’s this: This post is targeted at the students who want to break 230 comfortably, be above average etc. I cannot say that this is the advice that will get you above a 245... but that said, I'm sure some of this advice will still work for anyone. As for a COMLEX benchmark, I would say to you keep reading if you are interested in breaking 600 quite comfortably. Again, I’m not guaranteeing scores or flaunting mine, but I feel it would be helpful for you to have an idea of who is writing to you.

So without further ado, what do you need to know, to start second year strong?

1. Mental Health is key. I cannot stress this enough, the old adage you cannot take care of others without taking care of yourself has never been so true. additionally, if you are not in the right mindset for second year, you will not succeed. In my opinion, the best way to approach second year is a challenge that you are excited to tackle and grow from. The biggest “wall” in most students mind isn't the coursework, but the exam at the end of the year. You will start hearing students talk about how they “aren't doing class anymore” or “I just reading first aid” and to me that B.S. Your classes second year are incredibly high yield. They essentially contain the material you are going to see on boards. The more work you put in second year, the more you are going to get out. You need to keep that mindset because it is easy to fall into the trap of “oh I will just study for boards”. Please don't be that guy or gal, just study like you actually want to learn medicine and I promise the scores will follow. This leads me to #2.

2. Boards are not the MCAT, they are not a beast, they are not unfair. You will hear a ton of folks talking about how they are bad at standardized tests, they didn't do well on the MCAT, they don't think boards focus on real medicine, this list goes on. I truly believe all of the above don't matter. Let me first address the content issue. The content on boards IS medicine. It is again, B.S, when people say its irrelevant or its unnecessary information. Now, USMLE is more guilty of random useless detail than COMLEX, but the truth is at the end of the day, MOST of what you will see is normal medical questions. The detailed questions are there because everyone knows the basics, that is for you to show that you are above average because you have worked so hard to get to this point. 

Okay that aside, lets address the MCAT thingy. So there is this AAMC stat that gets tossed around all the time about MCAT score correlating to boards exams. The truth is, if you had life figured out and were a great student when you took the MCAT, then I’m sure that stat holds up. That said, I was not, and as you may recall, I had a 26 on my MCAT... This should have been roughly a low 200 on USMLE... I can confirm that I was no where near this. Don't let statistics define you, each time you take a test like this, it is a new experience and you define your future. Remember there are always statistical outliers... be that outlier!

3. Work Hard. Sounds silly right? Just don't forget what you are there to do. This is a long and grueling road, and you can easily lose focus for numerous reasons. Just remind yourself why you are in med school and what this means to you. That will be different for everyone but hopefully that will help you to dig deep and find what you need to push on. 

Alright, I think that should be sufficient to start you all off in the right mindset for your 2nd year. This applies to a good mindset for first year as well! Look out for the YouTube, I am planning videos talking about how best to utilize Step 1 with your coursework as well as how to get the most out of UWorld. 

Until next time,

thepre-medlife

Twitter: thepre_medlife

Youtube: Thepre-medlife