Use the following study tips to reduce the workload and stress associated with the all-important USMLE exam.
Physicians earn an average annual salary of $208,504, although the rate differs widely based on location and specializations. This six-figure salary and enormous benefits awarded to physicians entice most medical students looking forward to signing their names with a Ph.D. attached. Medical school is no easy feat. Medical school students study an average of 40 hours per week -and 60 hours or more during exams.
Only the Strong Survive Med School
The coursework in medical school can be extremely challenging and rigorous. Only the strong survive med school; the students with an understanding of the hard work required to earn such a prestigious title and occupation. From lectures, lab sessions, and clinical rotations, medical students spend much of their time learning.
Students must take courses in basic sciences like anatomy and biochemistry and clinical sciences like internal medicine and surgery. The coursework can be challenging to the extent that students study the biggest part of their day.
Many standardized exams are part of medical school. One of the exams students must complete before earning their degree and becoming a licensed physician is the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE.)
The USMLE exam consists of three steps and covers topics ranging from foundational medical knowledge to clinical decision-making and patient management. Each exam presents unique challenges. Students must learn how to use specific strategies to pass this exam.
The National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME) administers the USMLE exam using a three-digit scale to score tests. A passing score differs based on the med student’s state of residency and specialty.
History of the USMLE
The USMLE was first developed in the late 1980s by the National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME) and the Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB). The purpose of the exam was to establish a common standard for medical licensure throughout the United States.
Before the development of the USMLE, each state had its own licensing exam, which made it difficult for physicians to practice in multiple states or for medical students to apply for residency programs across the country.
The first iteration of the USMLE was launched in 1992 and consisted of two steps. Step 1 focused on assessing a student’s knowledge of basic medical sciences, while Step 2 focused on clinical skills and decision-making.
In 1994, the USMLE was expanded to three steps. Step 1 remained focused on basic sciences, while Step 2 was split into two parts: Clinical Knowledge (CK) and Clinical Skills (CS). Step 3, which assesses a physician’s ability to apply medical knowledge in the context of patient care, was added later.
Over the years, the USMLE has evolved to include new testing formats and technologies, such as computer-based testing and simulation exercises. The exam is regularly reviewed and updated to ensure that it remains relevant and effective in assessing the knowledge and skills required for medical practice in the United States.
Tips for USMLE Success
Every medical student is unique and uses different study habits and strategies to lead them to success. It is important to find what works for you to ensure a passing score. With this in mind, the following study tips seem to help a majority of students who use them.
- Start Early: There is no such thing as starting too early when an upcoming USMLE exam is in your future. When you begin studying during pre-clinical years, there is plenty of time to learn and absorb information which eliminates the need to cram pre-exam day. You can also learn how to identify your weaknesses and strengths in studying, which allows you to individualize a study plan that works for you.
- Learn How to Better Manage Your Time: You should develop time management skills now since each portion of the USMLE exam is timed. When you better manage your time and work on improving speed and accuracy, you’ll ace the test. Experts can provide you with a wealth of guidance concerning time management if you seek their assistance.
- Understanding Information is Essential: The USMLE exam assesses your ability to apply concepts and make clinical decisions. Your memory plays a role in the test, although understanding the material is even more important. Flashcards, mnemonics, and concept maps are great tools to help you understand the material you learn.
- Use High-Yield Study Resources: Many study resources can help students prepare for the USMLE exam. Using the most high-yield resources will ensure you learn the most critical concepts in each subject. With this information, passing the exam with flying colors becomes much easier.
- Practice Tests: USMLE-style practice tests give students a clearer understanding of what they should expect on the real test. You can use the practice questions to assess your knowledge and learn areas that need improvement. The practice test can help you study the information you most need.
- Study/Practice With a Friend: Studying with a friend can help each of you identify strengths and weaknesses and evaluate improvements as they are made. Studying with a friend can lessen the burden that sometimes comes when you’ve studied hour after hour and want nothing more than a break.
- Hire a Tutor: Tutors with prior USMLE experience are valuable resources when it is time to prepare for the exam. They save you study time and help ease some of the stress you undoubtedly feel. Ace Med Boards has dedicated tutors available online 24/7 to help you during the most critical moments.
- Stay Motivated: Preparing for the USMLE exam is a long, tedious, and challenging process. While it can demotivate you, it is critical to remember the long-term rewards you’ll enjoy upon its successful completion. Stay motivated by taking breaks, surrounding yourself with a great support time, getting plenty of sleep, and rewarding yourself for reaching specific goals or milestones.
Preparing for the USMLE requires hard work, dedication, and a sound study strategy. Every student is unique but may find strong similarities when it is time to prepare for this important exam. By following these study tips, medical students can improve their chances of success and achieve their goal of becoming a licensed physician.