What resources should I get use upon starting my Step 1 USMLE journey?

Question

After completing almost every Step 1 resource I am curious to know what others think about what are the top 5 resources.

Answer 1

I'd say my Top 5 resources for USMLE Step 1 are:

1. First Aid for USMLE Step 1 - No other resource can come close to how much knowledge is packed into this book. A one-stop shop for everything you need to know on test day.
2. Pathoma - Explains pathology concepts so beautifully that you don't need to memorize pathology because you finally understand it.
3. Sketchy Micro - Makes it so easy and fun to learn and actually remember microbiology.
4. UWorld - Best source of USMLE questions, explanations teach you everything you need to know and more.
5. NBME Practice Exams - Extremely useful to complete at least the 5 most recent NBME practice exams, as they show you how the NBME likes to test certain things. Useful to gauge your level of comfort with the material you have learned thus far.

Answer 2

Great question! It can be daunting with how many resources are out there, but I recommend the following.

1. Anki - This is a flashcard app or program on your computer that specializes in spaced repetition. There are several great pre-made decks out there (check out the medicalschoolanki subreddit) or you can create your own. This really helps focus on your weak areas, while ensuring you don't forget your strong areas.
2. UWorld - Several studies show that the number of practice questions you do directly correlates with success on USMLE tests. Use UWorld like a textbook, read every answer, understand why the choice is the best answer, and you will do great.
3. Pathoma - Dr. Sattar is masterful with his words, and you should listen and read everything he has to say! This is one of the highest yield resources out there. Review this frequently, again using Anki cards or simply re-reading and re-watching videos.
4. First Aid for Step 1 - the quintessential text for USMLE Step 1 review. Almost everything you will need to know is in this book somewhere. Review it frequently - whether via Anki cards or re-reading it.
5. SketchyMedical - their micro and pharm videos are really great at building long-term memory (in fact, I still recall many of the sketches now as a 4th year medical student!)

I am happy to talk more with you one-on-one about the best tools to help you achieve the score of your dreams on Step 1, and creating an ideal program for you! Good luck, and keep up the hard work :)

Answer 3

Here are my top 5 resources of what I used for STEP 1:

1) Pathoma

2) First Aid for the USMLE STEP 1 2018

3) Boards and Beyond

4) Uworld

5) Sketchy (microbiology and pharmacology)