How I practice Questions daily for the USMLE? (NBME) Step 1 & Step 2CK

Summary

In this video, Missy shares her step-by-step approach to studying for the Step 1 exam, offering practical advice for both full-time and part-time students. She emphasizes the importance of consistent practice with QBank, proactive research using resources like PubMed and First Aid, and managing study time effectively. Missy also discusses the value of study groups and volunteering for CV building, providing a supportive community for medical students. Her balanced approach acknowledges the challenges of life and work, encouraging students to stay focused, flexible, and motivated during their preparation.

Takeaways

• 😀 **Start your day early and have a structured routine**: Establishing a morning routine with specific goals, such as completing 25 questions before lunch, helps in maintaining focus throughout the day.
• 😀 **Consistency over perfection**: It's important to set achievable goals for each day, such as completing 40–80 questions, but don’t stress if you miss them. Consistency is key to success.
• 😀 **Research when you get questions wrong**: Don’t just move on from mistakes. Take the time to research incorrect answers and understand why they are wrong. This solidifies learning.
• 😀 **Use multiple resources for diverse learning**: Utilize various study materials like Qbanks, first aid books, YouTube educational channels, and even ChatGPT for deeper learning.
• 😀 **Balance study with real life**: Life situations, such as working, family responsibilities, or health issues, can affect study schedules. Flexibility is essential to make progress while managing life outside of studying.
• 😀 **Don’t just rely on NBME exams**: While NBMEs are useful, they should not be the primary method of study. They are diagnostic tools that help you identify knowledge gaps but shouldn’t be your only resource.
• 😀 **Use study groups for support and motivation**: Being part of a study group can provide not only resources and tips but also moral support. You’re not expected to be perfect—adjust your schedule and share knowledge.
• 😀 **Use visual resources**: Visual aids, like First Aid diagrams and colorful content, can be crucial for visual learners and can help reinforce key concepts.
• 😀 **Take breaks and don't study 12 hours straight**: Studying for long stretches without breaks is not sustainable. A balanced approach with shorter, focused study periods is more effective.
• 😀 **Set realistic goals based on your availability**: Understand your personal limitations and create a study plan that works within those boundaries. It's okay to adapt your schedule based on family or work commitments.

Q & A

What is the key focus of Missy's study routine for Step 1 preparation?

Missy's study routine focuses on consistency, time management, and a mix of question banks (Qbanks) and resources to build a solid foundation. She emphasizes the importance of doing both Qbank questions and practice exams (NBMEs) to avoid gaps in knowledge.

How does Missy manage her study schedule as a part-time student working while studying for Step 1?

Missy adjusts her study schedule depending on her work commitments. She studies from 5 PM to 9-10 PM, aiming for 40 questions per day. She stresses the importance of maintaining consistency and being flexible based on daily energy levels.

What is Missy's approach to time management during study sessions?

Missy uses a clock to manage her time during study sessions. She typically allocates 20-30 minutes per question, aiming for 2-3 questions per hour. As her speed improves, she increases this to 4-5 questions per hour.

What resources does Missy recommend for USMLE Step 1 prep?

Missy recommends using Qbanks like UWorld and Amboss, along with Melman Medical and NCBI for research. She also mentions using tools like ChatGPT, although cautions that it requires careful use to avoid incorrect information.

Why does Missy recommend completing a full Qbank before starting NBMEs?

Missy recommends finishing a Qbank (like Amboss or UWorld) to ensure a solid foundational knowledge before starting NBMEs. This helps avoid knowledge gaps and provides a more comprehensive understanding of the material.

What is Missy's perspective on using First Aid for Step 1 prep?

Missy understands that First Aid is a widely used resource despite some people criticizing it. She personally prefers Melman Medical but acknowledges that First Aid's widespread use among students makes it a reliable choice for many.

How does Missy incorporate family life into her study routine?

Missy acknowledges the challenges of balancing family life with studying. She mentions that as a mom, she understands that not everyone can commit to long hours of study. Her advice is to work around life’s obligations, emphasizing flexibility and prioritization.

What role does volunteering play in Missy's study group?

Volunteering in Missy's study group is an opportunity for students to give back while also building their ARS (Applicant Rating Score) for residency applications. It also fosters a supportive community where students can share resources and study together.

How does Missy deal with questions she gets wrong during her study sessions?

When Missy gets a question wrong, she does a thorough review process. She looks up the answer in Qbanks like Amboss and UWorld, researches the topic further through Melman Medical PDFs and NCBI, and ensures she understands the underlying concepts before moving on.

What advice does Missy give to students who are balancing work, family, and study for Step 1?

Missy advises students to adapt their study routine based on their personal circumstances. She stresses that it's important to remain consistent and realistic, acknowledging that life will throw challenges, but it's possible to study effectively by managing time and using available resources wisely.