Mastering USMLE Step 1: A Comprehensive Guide for Success

Recalls are questions recalled and documented by recent test-takers, with a high likelihood of appearing again in the actual exam if studied thoroughly. Our premium package includes over 200 files, guaranteeing 20+ repeated questions in each block.

Many students have similar inquiries, prompting me to compile this guide for everyone's benefit. Feel free to contribute any additional information. Enjoy your studies!

What is USMLE Step 1?

Previously, USMLE Step 1 was a critical exam for medical students. Although it is now graded on a pass/fail basis, it is still a challenging test that requires thorough preparation. Passing is vital, and the knowledge and skills acquired while studying for this exam will be beneficial for Step 2 and Step 3. In short, approach Step 1 with dedication.

What is the format of Step 1?

The examination lasts for one day and is split into seven 60-minute sections. It is an 8-hour session, with the option of a 15-minute tutorial and 45 minutes of break time. Each section has a different number of questions, with a maximum of 40 per section and a total of up to 280 questions on Step 1.

To familiarize yourself with the test software before the exam, you can practice using the Step 1 interactive testing experience available at this link. The interface is the same as UWorld, Bootcamp, or any other major question bank.

How many questions do I need to answer correctly to pass?

The USMLE does not provide this information, but according to past trends and the new passing score of 196, you should aim to score above the bottom 5% of students. This typically means getting around 60% of the questions right.

When should I start preparing?

You should have been getting ready during M1/M2. Many schools provide a specific study time in your 4th semester to help you pass the exam, so it's important to begin studying more intensely in the 6 months before that period.

What are the best resources for Step 1?

This guide does not show preference for any specific product, and the cost does not always indicate the quality. These materials have proven to be helpful for numerous students and are offered to help you make well-informed decisions.

Most popular resources for Step 1

1. UWorld is a popular question bank that provides detailed explanations and images. Some questions may be more challenging than the actual exam, but it is great for practice.
   2. Med School Bootcamp is a comprehensive resource for Step 1 preparation, offering video lessons and a question bank similar to Step 1.
   3. First Aid is a valuable resource for a high-level overview of key review areas, but it is not recommended as the sole study tool. It is particularly useful for those who prefer using books.
   4. Anking is a recommended Anki deck available for purchase, ideal for Anki enthusiasts.
   5. Pathoma offers video lessons on high-yield pathology topics, serving as a good refresher for core concepts. While Step 1 has become more challenging, chapters 1-3 are still beneficial.
   6. NBME Self-Assessments are online assessments that should be completed towards the end of dedicated study time. Consistent scores of 65% or higher are needed to pass.
   7. It is advisable for everyone to complete the NBME Free 120 before the exam, and reviewing explanations afterwards is helpful.
   8. Sketchymedical is suitable for visual learners, especially known for its microbiology series, although the reception to its pharm/path series varies.
   9. Amboss is a strong competitor to UWorld, offering a library for reference. It is recommended to use their Anki extension.
   10. Boards and Beyond provides video reviews, though some videos may appear outdated. The quality of the Step 1 question bank is average but beneficial after watching the videos.
   11. Pixorize is a visual mnemonic series for biochemistry, microbiology, immunology, and pharmacology, similar to Sketchy, with a focus on biochem.
   12. Lecturio is used by some for classes but is not commonly utilized for Step 1 preparation.

        

       YouTube Channel Recommendations

1. Dirty Medicine: Well-known for its high-quality biochemistry videos and helpful mnemonics.
   2. Randy Neil biostatistics: A great collection of videos that cover biostatistics.
   3. Ninja Nerd Official: Provides in-depth explanations, ideal for academic courses.
   4. Med School Moose: Useful for learning key terms and high-yield images.

       

      Quick tips on Step 1 strategy

• Start by reading the last sentence of the question first, as it may contain all the information needed to answer the question. Additional details provided in the question may not be necessary.
  • Focus on any specific findings such as histology, pathology, tumor markers, or high confidence evidence, as these will take precedence over vague or conflicting clinical information.
  • Trust your initial answer as it is likely correct. Avoid changing answers unless you are completely certain.
  • When asked about risk factors for a certain condition, the answer is often smoking.
  • If a disease has been present for months and is accompanied by weight loss, consider cancer as a likely diagnosis. However, if there are suspicions of gastrointestinal involvement, the differential diagnosis widens.
  • If you are unable to interpret media-based questions (e.g., heart sounds), try to answer the question based on the case history provided.
  • Remember that around 15-20% of questions may be experimental and not scored. Don't get stuck on extremely difficult questions; make an educated guess and move on.

     

    Step 1 Study Schedules

• Bootcamp offers a study plan for 9 weeks for Step 1, focusing on system-based scheduling.
  • Elite Medical Prep provides a 10-week study schedule for Step 1.

     

    Passed posts from the P/F era

• Achieved success in Step 1 by using only Bootcamp, Sketchy, and UW as primary resources, without relying on First Aid.
  • Detailed breakdown of a 4-month dedicated study schedule for Step 1 preparation.
  • Successfully passed Step 1 and encourages others that they can achieve it too.
  • Shared experience of passing Step 1 with a score of less than 55% on NBME.
  • Passed Step 1 and provided a comprehensive breakdown of resources used, study methods, and advice in a lengthy post.
  • Shared the journey of an IMG passing Step 1 and encourages others to believe in themselves.
  • Passed Step 1 despite having low UWSAs, along with a breakdown of the resources used.
  • Detailed account of an 11-month preparation journey for Step 1, including a breakdown of resources and study methods.
  • Comprehensive write-up on statistics, sources, exam reflections, and advice after passing Step 1.
  • Passed Step 1 using only 4 resources, with details provided.

     

    When do I get my Step 1 results?

Normally, you can expect to receive your exam results within 2-4 weeks after completing the test. If you pass, you will not receive specific feedback on the exam content. However, if you do not pass, you will receive information on how close you were to passing and feedback on the content.

Scores for all USMLE Step exams are typically released on Wednesdays. For any possible delays in receiving your scores, please refer to the USMLE announcements page.

Your eligibility permit will disappear on the Sunday/Monday before the expected Wednesday score release on the NBME website (or OASIS for IMGs). Alternatively, your permit will vanish when your eligibility period ends, whichever comes first.

When we mention the permit disappearing, it means that the print button will no longer be visible. If you can still see the print button, your permit has not disappeared yet.