Kaplan is giving away 3 free OnlinePrep with Qbank Plus*, exclusive to Test Prep Week participants!
*Qbank Plus is only available for Step 1 and Step 2 CK. Only Qbank is available for Step 3. Winners will be chosen by SDN.

Kaplan’s new OnlinePrep program gives you access to hours of video lecture delivered by expert faculty, hundreds of practice questions, and more. Here’s what is included in each Step.



Step 1 OnlinePrep w/Qbank Plus:

Nearly 200 hours of video lecture
150 question diagnostic test
7 volumes of Step 1 lecture notes
9 subject-based assessment tests
1 full-length simulated exam
Step 1 Qbank Plus:
- Step 1 Qbank with over 2,000 revised questions
- Integrated Vignettes Qbank
- Physiology Qbank
- 1 full-length simulated exam


Step 2 CK OnlinePrep w/Qbank Plus

Over 140 hours of video lecture
150 question diagnostic test
5 volumes of Step 2 CK lecture notes
5 specialty assessment tests
1 full-length simulated exam
Step 2 CK Qbank Plus:
- Step 2 Qbank with over 2,000 challenging questions
- Internal Medicine Qbank with over 750 questions
- Full-length explanations and time saving reKaps
- 1 full-length simulated exam
Step 3 OnlinePrep w/Qbank

Over 60 hours of video lecture
150 question diagnostic test
3 volumes of Step 3 lecture notes
5 discipline level assessment tests
Dr. Conrad Fischer’s CCS review
Step 3 Qbank:
- Over 1,100 challenging Step 3 questions
- Full-length explanations and time-saving reKaps
- Exam-like interface
- Multimedia questions

I know this is nit picky, but do you guys know yet when the updated FA page numbers will be included? The online prep videos are good, and I'm looking for more question/additional qbank...but still want to have references with FA.

Speaking of which, in your next iteration of lecture notes you might consider having the First aid section/page numbers for each chapter on the first page/every page. I know you guys compete with them, but in reality a large majority of students use your resources to 'fill in the blanks' left in FA. Thanks!

Is there a date by when the Step 3 qbank has to be used?

Is there a date by when the Step 3 qbank has to be used?

Hi Alphaholic,

When you purchase Kaplan's USMLE Step 3 Online Prep with a Qbank, the Qbank is active throughout the duration of your Online Prep enrollment. If at the end of your enrollment you still need more time to do practice questions, extensions are available.

I hope this helps!

-Amanda

Hi Alphaholic,

When you purchase Kaplan's USMLE Step 3 Online Prep with a Qbank, the Qbank is active throughout the duration of your Online Prep enrollment. If at the end of your enrollment you still need more time to do practice questions, extensions are available.

I hope this helps!

-Amanda

How long are online prep enrollments on average? Also what do you believe is Kaplan's strength and weakness in Online Prep?

How long are online prep enrollments on average? Also what do you believe is Kaplan's strength and weakness in Online Prep?

Online Prep enrollments are offered in a variety of lengths depending upon the student's preferred study schedule. For Step 1 and Step 2 CK, they come in 3-month, 6-month, or 9-month lengths and are available with or without Kaplan's Qbank or Qbank Plus. Step 3 is available in 1-month or 3-month increments with or without Qbank (there's no Qbank Plus for Step 3).

An Online Prep enrollment length will vary drastically depending on the educational background of the person who's purchasing the enrollment. For example, an International Medical Graduate who is outside of the USA, who hasn't been in medical school for several years, would probably benefit most from a 9-month Step 1 enrollment, but a US med school graduate in residency might only need a 1-month long Step 3 enrollment.

As for the strength of the program--the digital video's are awesome since they're recorded with our most dynamic lecturers! Weakness--you don't get any direct interaction with fellow students or the Kaplan Medical advising team like you would with a Center or Deluxe Prep enrollment at a Kaplan Center.

I hope this helps!

-Amanda

When is Kaplan planning to release their new set of Step 1 notes this year?

Hello, I understand the usmle step 3 exam is divided into blocks of office, ER, Inpatient, Community clinic etc. I was wondering if there's an option in the kaplan step 3 qbank that allows one to choose questions in that format?
Thank you.

I would also like to know how often your step 3 content is updated.
Thanks.

How many hours of the Step 1 prep videos are dedicated to biochemistry? I am looking for a pretty comprehensive resource.

Do you have tools for Blackberry?

Hello, I understand the usmle step 3 exam is divided into blocks of office, ER, Inpatient, Community clinic etc. I was wondering if there's an option in the kaplan step 3 qbank that allows one to choose questions in that format?
Thank you.


Hello zalato5:

Thank you for your interest in Kaplan! As with all of our products, we strive to keep our Step 3 Qbank up to date to reflect changes to the exam. Our Step 3 Qbank allows you to create custom tests by disorder, clinical setting or both. Immediate on screen feedback and detailed explanations for both correct and incorrect responses are also provided.

We are currently revising every question in the Step 3 Qbank and we will be updating the content on a rolling basis.

Regards,
Shani

What is the breakdown of the questions available for step 2 CK? Are those 750 IM questions the medicine questions from the step 2 ck test bank? Is the format of the step 2 ck similar to the actual test?

How many hours of the Step 1 prep videos are dedicated to biochemistry? I am looking for a pretty comprehensive resource.


Hello beyondbethany:

Step 1 Online Prep includes approximately 26 hours of Biochemistry lectures. This comprehensive product also features significant hours in Physiology along with other core subjects.

Hope that helps! Thanks!

Shani

Do you have tools for Blackberry?

Hello NERDY:

Currently, there are no Kaplan USMLE products for Blackberry. However, a Step 1 Qbank application is available on iPhone/iPad/iPod. We are constantly assessing opportunities for mobile applications and hope to provide more options in the future!

Thanks!

Shani

What is the breakdown of the questions available for step 2 CK? Are those 750 IM questions the medicine questions from the step 2 ck test bank? Is the format of the step 2 ck similar to the actual test?

Hi drizzt3117:

The IM questions are part of the Step 2CK Qbank Plus. These additional tough Internal Medicine questions are written at the level of difficulty seen on the American Board of Internal Medicine Certification exam. The questions are excellent practice for the student who wishes to focus on the toughest questions in Internal Medicine, the subject featured most prominently on Step 2 CK.

Hope that helps! Thanks.

Shani

What updates and additions have you made to the Step 1 and 2 programs to adjust to the USMLE's current high-yield topics and exam formats? Can you give us an idea of what perent of time is spent on each subject in the video lectures. Thanks!

Dear Kaplan,

When would you say is the best time to do the course relative to examination date?

When is Kaplan planning to release their new set of Step 1 notes this year?

Hi MdDoc1,

Our most recently released Step 1 lecture notes have a grey cover with color pictures on the front of them. They were released in Summer 2010. If you have access to them, be sure and check out the Micro/Immuno. and Path. books as they were redesigned with colorized images! As always, Kaplan Medical strives to have the most up to date notes available, so stay tuned to www.kaplanmedical.com (http://www.kaplanmedical.com) to learn about new updates in the future!

I hope this helps!

-Amanda

What updates and additions have you made to the Step 1 and 2 programs to adjust to the USMLE's current high-yield topics and exam formats? Can you give us an idea of what perent of time is spent on each subject in the video lectures. Thanks!

Hi sgod34,

Kaplan's new OnlinePrep w/Qbank Plus for both Step 1 and Step 2CK has nearly 200 hours (Step 1) and over 140 hours (Step 2CK) of the most current high-yield video lecture content for the USMLE. In addition to the lectures, our Qbank Plus includes new sequential and multimedia questions and the capability to work in (timed tutor mode), allowing you to work under timed, exam like conditions and review explanations right away.

The approximate breakdown of hours per subject is as follows for the video lectures:
anat
23 hrs
behav
20 hrs
biochem
18 hours
immuno
6.5 hrs
genetics
5.5 hrs
micro
11 hrs
path
25 hrs
pharm
28 hrs
physio
35 hrs


I hope this assists you!

Dear Kaplan,

When would you say is the best time to do the course relative to examination date?

Hi Zeyad,

Many academic and personal factors go into making this decision. I will send you a private message to discuss.

Thank You,

What are the main differences between the regular qbank and the qbank plus for step 2 CK?

Are there any residency-selection/match help tools included with this package in addition to the test prep materials?

What percentage of the Step3 qbank and online test prep is dedicated to non IM topics?

Hi there-

I'm not familiar with Kaplan's QBank at all. In what ways can you quiz yourself (e.g. by subject vs random)? Can you flag questions you've missed? Are there summary pages outlining weak areas?

I actually had a similar question to Zeyad. Do you recommend strictly using QBank to drill in the months preceeding Step 1? Or would you also recommend using it to reinforce material at the end of the respective curriculum block/continue to refresh throughout the year?

Thanks for your advice
7o9

Where do I sign up or enter the raffle to win online prep w/qbank?

Hi sgod34,

Kaplan's new OnlinePrep w/Qbank Plus for both Step 1 and Step 2CK has nearly 200 hours (Step 1) and over 140 hours (Step 2CK) of the most current high-yield video lecture content for the USMLE. In addition to the lectures, our Qbank Plus includes new sequential and multimedia questions and the capability to work in (timed tutor mode), allowing you to work under timed, exam like conditions and review explanations right away.

The approximate breakdown of hours per subject is as follows for the video lectures:
anat
23 hrs
behav
20 hrs
biochem
18 hours
immuno
6.5 hrs
genetics
5.5 hrs
micro
11 hrs
path
25 hrs
pharm
28 hrs
physio
35 hrs


I hope this assists you!

I currently have the webprep complete and I definitely do not have the hours that you have listed above. For immuno I have about 3.5 hours. It seems there have been a lot of sections that were taken out. People from the past have said that every section from the books was covered, but now it seems like it's only about 1/2-2/3. Is this a new approach where they decided what is more high yield, or what exactly is going on. Please advise, since I'm worried if I don't have access to all of my lectures or if this was an intended thing.

How long does it take your average subscriber to complete the step 1 qbank?

Hi Alphaholic,

When you purchase Kaplan's USMLE Step 3 Online Prep with a Qbank, the Qbank is active throughout the duration of your Online Prep enrollment. If at the end of your enrollment you still need more time to do practice questions, extensions are available.

I hope this helps!

-Amanda

Thanks for the response. To clarify, my question was in reference to the raffle.

Can I get access to any kaplan center (to take practice tests in the setting of Step 1) if I have the online webprep? What about if I purchase the qbank plus?

Thanks!

When is Kaplan planning to release their new set of Step 1 notes this year?

Hello mddoc1:

Kaplan’s USMLE Step 1 Lecture Notes were last revised in August of 2010. If you are a currently enrolled student studying in one of our centers and have questions about your preparation for the Step 1 exam please reach out to the medical advisor in your location. If you are preparing with one of our online courses please contact customer.care@kaplan.com (customer.care@kaplan.com) with your specific question.
Thanks!
Shani

I know this is nit picky, but do you guys know yet when the updated FA page numbers will be included? The online prep videos are good, and I'm looking for more question/additional qbank...but still want to have references with FA.

Speaking of which, in your next iteration of lecture notes you might consider having the First aid section/page numbers for each chapter on the first page/every page. I know you guys compete with them, but in reality a large majority of students use your resources to 'fill in the blanks' left in FA. Thanks!


Hello Day man:

Thanks for your suggestion regarding section/page numbers! I have forwarded the information to the appropriate team.

It is important to know that we’re currently working on the page references and hope to have ready soon. Thanks!

Shani

What are the main differences between the regular qbank and the qbank plus for step 2 CK?

Hello agrarianmonk:

Step 2 CK Qbank Plus is a comprehensive option featuring up to 800 additional questions for over 3,000 questions total, an Internal Medicine Qbank and a full-length online simulated exam.

Thanks!

Shani

Can I get access to any kaplan center (to take practice tests in the setting of Step 1) if I have the online webprep? What about if I purchase the qbank plus?

Thanks!

Hello iA-MD2013:

Step 1 Online Prep with Qbank Plus does not include access to Centers but features a diagnostic test with performance analysis, a full-length simulated exam as well as over 2,000 exam-like questions. If you’d like to access a Center, you may consider our Step 1 Center Prep product.

Thanks!

Shani

When was Physiology Qbank for Step1 last updated?
Thanks.

Is it possible to redo the Qbank questions that you mark? Is there a reset feature so that it clears all the questions you have done?
Thank you.

Are there any plans to give students who sign up for the course access to NBME exams the same way AAMC exams were provided for MCAT Kaplan prep?

Hi sgod34,


The approximate breakdown of hours per subject is as follows for the video lectures:
anat
23 hrs
behav
20 hrs
biochem
18 hours
immuno
6.5 hrs
genetics
5.5 hrs
micro
11 hrs
path
25 hrs
pharm
28 hrs
physio
35 hrs




WOW- thats alot of anatomy lectures but I was under the impression that Step 1 and 2 were not anatomy heavy test. Do the anatomy lectures include clinical correlations/histology? It seems odd that the number of anatomy lectures is about the same as the pathology.

Hi

Does the Step 1 course and Qbank have a High Score Guarantee like the MCAT class where if I don't pass Step 1, I'll be able to utilize the resources again? I know that if you pass, you're unable to retake the exam. But if you don't pass, would I be able to enroll in the same program to prep again?

Does the Step 3 Online Prep allow you to practice CCS cases or is it just a review of cases?

Thank You Kaplan,
for the opportunity you give us, to participate in this raffle.:xf:
It is greatly appreciate it.


All my questions have been answered thru others post, but I guess I can ask one:

Will Kaplan also be considering having a teacher breakdown the First Aide(thru audio-video) for students?

Thanks again:thumbup:

Are there any residency-selection/match help tools included with this package in addition to the test prep materials?

Good Morning Runeofmajesty!

All Center Prep, Live Prep, and Online Prep students are given a concurrent, free enrollment in Residency Match Class (RMC), which is located under a student's kaptest.com homepage. The RMC resources include video archives, chat/message boards, Match resources, which include residency match statistics, and an announcements page to keep you up to date regarding important changes and deadlines. You can learn more at http://www.kaplanlogin.com/dl/Med/MatchClass/whatsthis.asp

Hope this helps!

Amanda

What percentage of the Step3 qbank and online test prep is dedicated to non IM topics?

Hi Neuro or Derm,

Of the 1,100+ questions in our Qbank, approximately half are dedicated to non-Internal Medicine topics.

Of the digital-lecture based course, which has a grand total of 250 cases covered in the lecture, 121 cover non-IM topics.

I hope this helps!

-Amanda

Hi there-

I'm not familiar with Kaplan's QBank at all. In what ways can you quiz yourself (e.g. by subject vs random)? Can you flag questions you've missed? Are there summary pages outlining weak areas?

I actually had a similar question to Zeyad. Do you recommend strictly using QBank to drill in the months preceeding Step 1? Or would you also recommend using it to reinforce material at the end of the respective curriculum block/continue to refresh throughout the year?

Thanks for your advice
7o9


Hi 7of9,

An advance apology for the long reply, but I wanted to make sure I was thorough...

Kaplan Medical has the most efficient, exam-like Qbank yet! Our expert faculty have rewritten over 2,000 questions to simulate the Step 1 exam so precisely that you'll experience déjà vu on test day! We also include the new sequential and multimedia questions in our 100% examlike interface...and this is the only Qbank that offers a timed tutor mode— answer under timed, exam conditions and see the explanations immediately.


Only Kaplan lets you target questions by organ system, medical discipline, difficulty and yield. Imagine being able to select the highest yield questions...or concentrate on questions that most students get incorrect...or even on the hardest highest yield questions... Qbank will keep a historical record of all created/completed Qbank quizzes you make, so it WILL track all right and wrong answers for you and give you not only an individual performance page for each quiz, but also a cumulative performance page to track your progress over time.



Qbank also has thorough explanations of right and wrong answers, so if you only have time for the key concepts, each question also comes with a reKap of the must-know info and the most challenging questions also include Qutorials— mini-lectures from our expert faculty.


Sometimes when reviewing a question, you'll recognize a wider gap in your knowledge. Now more than 2,000 of our Qbank explanations link to high-yield summary tables from medEssentials...and we even include up-to-date page references to First Aid.

As far as when to do Qbank... usually each Fall Kaplan Medical will be at most MS2 US medical schools across the country to introduce our Qbank and encourage students to begin incorporating Qbank and other forms of Step 1 review into their current MS2 studies. We don't say that you need to start stressing over Step 1 at the moment, but for example, if you're about to take a Pharm. test over a few organ systems, then we'd recommend, perhaps, some brief anatomy review over those organ systems to help supplement your current coursework, but also refresh some basics you'll need for Step 1. This is how the most effective students study--content first as it pertains to their classes (to build an integrated bridge of materials/subjects) and then the closer they get to test day, the more and more questions they'll do, and use their Qbank results to diagnose areas needed a little more content review.

I hope this helps!

-Amanda

Where do I sign up or enter the raffle to win online prep w/qbank?

Hi LAlakers,

Check out the following thread... http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showthread.php?t=790797. It has all of the entry and eligibility rules posted there to explain how SDN will select winners.

Hope this helps!

-Amanda

Thanks for the response. To clarify, my question was in reference to the raffle.

Hi again Alphaholic06,

Check out the following thread... http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showthread.php?t=790797. It has all of the eligibility rules posted there...

Based on that and the fact that your profile says your an M4, I don't foresee any reason why you wouldn't qualify to win a Step 3 program and use it within an appropriate time frame since most residents take Step 3 during PGY1.
Hope this helps!

-Amanda

I currently have the webprep complete and I definitely do not have the hours that you have listed above. For immuno I have about 3.5 hours. It seems there have been a lot of sections that were taken out. People from the past have said that every section from the books was covered, but now it seems like it's only about 1/2-2/3. Is this a new approach where they decided what is more high yield, or what exactly is going on. Please advise, since I'm worried if I don't have access to all of my lectures or if this was an intended thing.

Hi UMP,

Don't worry--Webprep Complete is different than Kaplan's Online Prep. Online Prep is designed to be a more comprehensive and thorough approach, which is likely far more information than what the typical US medical student would be interested in reviewing. Webprep Complete has approximately 100 hours worth of lecture, in comparison to Online Prep which has over 200 hours. If memory serves, Webprep is designed to be higher-yield information geared more towards the needs of US medical students, and then of course Webprep Complete is everything that Webprep has, but it's "complete" with our Qbank Plus added on to it. Don't get me wrong--both are outstanding options, but based in my 6+ years experience, Webprep is very highly thought of by MS2 students.

I hope this helps!

-Amanda

How long does it take your average subscriber to complete the step 1 qbank?

Hi TheSlyme!

Qbank and Qbank Plus are offered in a variety of lengths and times ranging from one month to one year. Different students will purchase them at different points in their Step 1 studies, and while some have the goal of completing the entire Qbank, others do not. Because of the wide variety of students, there is no average length of time that we can report.

However, one feature that many of our students DO appreciate is our Step 1 Qbank Score Estimator, which is able to estimate your future USMLE score based upon your cumulative Qbank performance. Over time, your Qbank percentage, and estimated score, will likely grow more precise over time, and will increase as you review content, answer more questions across all subjects, see more topics, and gain familiarity with the exam format and content. So... the more questions you do, the more predictive your Qbank Score Estimator will be... so reach for the sky and do as many questions as possible!

I hope this helps!

-Amanda

Is it possible to redo the Qbank questions that you mark? Is there a reset feature so that it clears all the questions you have done?
Thank you.

Hi Soup12,

In your Kaplan Qbank, you always have the option to create quizzes by category. The categories are "all" which includes ALL questions in Qbank, regardless of whether you have seen them or not, "unused," which is ONLY questions you have not seen (this is the recommended category), and "incorrect" which are questions you've answered incorrectly previously. You can create quizzes using any combination of these categories, which includes, for example Unused & Incorrect.

Kaplan also has a feature called "my questions," which is helpful when reviewing explanations or in Tutor modes, you can add questions to your My Questions pool. Selecting the My Questions category lets you create tests using these questions in combination with other criteria – for example a specific organ system or discipline.

We do NOT offer an option to clear your Qbank history, because you can learn a ridiculous amount of information by tracking your progress over time and by looking at testing trends (like answer changes), full rationales of the answers and explanations, and from the Qutorials, ReKaps, and other features that come with analyzing past Qbank quiz performance.

I hope this helps!

-Amanda

WOW- thats alot of anatomy lectures but I was under the impression that Step 1 and 2 were not anatomy heavy test. Do the anatomy lectures include clinical correlations/histology? It seems odd that the number of anatomy lectures is about the same as the pathology.

Hi Purple Pearl!

The total run times that were posted were only the breakdown for our Step 1 lectures. Anatomy is only directly tested on Step 1--subjects on Step 2 CK include IM, OB/Gyn, Surgery, Psych., etc.

The Step 1 anatomy lectures DO include Histology and Cytology (about 2.5 hours), Early Embryology (about 1 hr.), Gross Anatomy and Organogenesis (10+ hrs.), and Neuroscience (almost 9 hours). Also, all of our lecture notes (which come with Online Prep enrollments) include clinical correlates to better help you relate the material to clinical settings.

Anatomy, biochem., and pathology are the foundations for success on the USMLE so it makes sense that both subject areas would be very thorough--after all if you don't know your anatomy, how would you know the right pharmacological treatment?

I hope this helps!

-Amanda

Hi

Does the Step 1 course and Qbank have a High Score Guarantee like the MCAT class where if I don't pass Step 1, I'll be able to utilize the resources again? I know that if you pass, you're unable to retake the exam. But if you don't pass, would I be able to enroll in the same program to prep again?


Hi KPXNYC!

Kaplan Medical does not have a Higher Score Guarantee for the USMLE programs because once you pass each USMLE exam, you're unable to re-test, which is why it's so important to get the best score possible the first try!

If you do not pass, we do have alumni and repeat discounts in place, which vary depending on the courses and program the student was originally enrolled in.

However, what we can tell you is that a new survey found that 3 out of 4 doctors prepared with Kaplan for the USMLE Step 1, and that more doctors prepared for the USMLE Step 1 with Kaplan than any other course!*

So--rest assured that we will get you the help you need to get you the score you want!

I hope this helps!

-Amanda


Full details of the survey follow--*Doctors refers to US MDs who were licensed between 2001-2010 and used a fee-based course to prepare for the USMLE Step 1. The AlphaDetail, Inc. online study for Kaplan was conducted between Nov. 10 – Dec. 9, 2010 among 763 US licensed MDs, of whom 643 used a fee-based course to prepare for the USMLE Step 1.

Does the Step 3 Online Prep allow you to practice CCS cases or is it just a review of cases?

Hi PsychMedStudent!

Step 3 Online Prep has both! This course includes access to our full Step 3 video library, featuring 60+ hours of video lectures organized by cases, which are delivered by our expert faculty.

OnlinePrep also includes a diagnostic test, 5 discipline level assessment tests with 250 USMLE style questions total, and Dr. Conrad Fischer's CCS Review.



I hope this helps!


-Amanda

When was Physiology Qbank for Step1 last updated?
Thanks.

Hi Betal!

Kaplan updates our questions a minimum of once per year, in addition to whenever we get student feedback on specific questions. We always strive to have the most up-to-date and test-like questions possible!

I hope this helps!

-Amanda

Are there any plans to give students who sign up for the course access to NBME exams the same way AAMC exams were provided for MCAT Kaplan prep?

Hi TheSlyme!

Thanks for the suggestion! At the moment we do not offer this service, but we take student feedback very seriously and I have passed along your inquiry to our Product Development Team for consideration!

I hope this helps!

-Amanda

Thank You Kaplan,
for the opportunity you give us, to participate in this raffle.:xf:
It is greatly appreciate it.


All my questions have been answered thru others post, but I guess I can ask one:

Will Kaplan also be considering having a teacher breakdown the First Aide(thru audio-video) for students?

Thanks again:thumbup:


Hi Esperanza27!

Kaplan currently provides page references to First Aid in our Qbank, Qbank Plus, and in our online lecture products in order to make looking up addition information and taking notes as efficient as possible for busy students!

As you likely imagine, Kaplan always strives to have the most up-to-date programs and options out there, so I've passed on your inquiry to our Product Development Team. One side note--if memory serves, First Aid covers about 65-70% of the material/content that could potentially be tested on Step 1, so while it's an overwhelmingly popular Step 1 study guide, it cannot be the only source of content review in order to ace the exam.

I hope this helps!

-Amanda

How does this compare to USMLE world?

I used Kaplan prep for MCAT and COMLEX step I and really thought they did an excellent job of preparing me! Don't know if I can afford it for step II, but here's to winning the raffle! :)

Ms. Amanda (Kaplan)

Thank You very much for your reply. I understand what you are saying, but that is exactly why I asked the question in regards to the First aide, because I have notice a couple of review courses that are basing their review using FA. I definitely agree that Kaplan goes into more detail with topics, than if only using FA....
But I was wondering if FA was being considered by Kaplan as an additional Book to be explained aside from the kaplan course study. As other organizations have done so.

Thank You very much for Ur attention & quick Reply...
:thumbup:

Wow. That looks like a lot of stuff. Our school forced us to use Kaplan books, videos and Qbank for step 1. I did not use the books at all (too thick for my time). Are the step 3 books formatted the same way as the step 1 books? And are they printed on that newspaper paper stock, too?

Does the QBank adjust the question automatically for the types of questions missed most often? And if the QBank does change the questions based on past answers, does it make adjustments based on difficultly, subject area, passage length, etc?

Has there been multimedia additions to the Step 1 qbank to reflect recent changes? (i.e. questions with heart sounds)

Has there been multimedia additions to the Step 1 qbank to reflect recent changes? (i.e. questions with heart sounds)


Hi Zhuolei!

Kaplan was the first Qbank to have multimedia questions included in our Step 1 Qbank. We have also added Sequential Items, a new question style seen on Step 1, to our Qbank as well. If you haven't tried out our all-new Step 1 Qbank, I would HIGHLY suggest your enrolling in a free one-month trial. Just go to http://store.kaptest.com/oneclick/checkout.jhtml;jsessionid=2ZWBASITHDRD1LA3AQJHBNVM DUCBG2HB?classids=55531979&_requestid=545 (http://store.kaptest.com/oneclick/checkout.jhtml;jsessionid=2ZWBASITHDRD1LA3AQJHBNVM DUCBG2HB?classids=55531979&_requestid=545)to sign up (for Step 1).

I hope this helps!

-Amanda

Wow. That looks like a lot of stuff. Our school forced us to use Kaplan books, videos and Qbank for step 1. I did not use the books at all (too thick for my time). Are the step 3 books formatted the same way as the step 1 books? And are they printed on that newspaper paper stock, too?

Hi UserNameNeeded!

Our new Online Prep products are comprehensive, or a lot of stuff, as you eloquently put it :D.

The Step 3 books are organized by discipline and setup around specific cases, but since it is a Kaplan Medical book, it is setup in an easy-to-use format that's similar to what we use for Step 1. However for Step 3 there are only 3 volumes plus a Qbook and a separate text for the Comprehensive Cases, in contrast to the 7 volumes + Qbook that we give for Step 1.

I just went to look at one of the Step 3 notes in my home office, and the paper type/thickness appears to be identical to the paper in my printer. Perhaps, if you think the Online Prep hours of digital lectures would be too thorough for your particular study needs, might I suggest our Step 3 Qbank + Lecture Notes, which sells for $599?

I hope this helps!

-Amanda

Does the QBank adjust the question automatically for the types of questions missed most often? And if the QBank does change the questions based on past answers, does it make adjustments based on difficultly, subject area, passage length, etc?

Hi Meissner Effect!

One of the many great things about Kaplan's Qbank is that the individual user has control over what types of questions they add to each quiz, so you can do a randomized quiz over all subject areas, disciplines, or specialties, or you can make a quiz that's as specific to your strengths/weaknesses as you'd like. With the performance reports each user receives for each quiz and the cumulative reporting history, it's easy to identify your strengths and weaknesses and you have the flexibility to pick and choose what you want to test on!

It sounds like what you're describing is similar to a computer adaptive test, which is the type of format that's used on the GRE (for grad. school admissions) or for the NCLEX-RN and PN licensing exams (think nursing boards), but that's not the format used by the real USMLE, so that's not what Kaplan (or any other company that I know of) uses in their Qbank quiz-creating engine.

I hope this helps!

-Amanda

Ms. Amanda (Kaplan)

Thank You very much for your reply. I understand what you are saying, but that is exactly why I asked the question in regards to the First aide, because I have notice a couple of review courses that are basing their review using FA. I definitely agree that Kaplan goes into more detail with topics, than if only using FA....
But I was wondering if FA was being considered by Kaplan as an additional Book to be explained aside from the kaplan course study. As other organizations have done so.

Thank You very much for Ur attention & quick Reply...
:thumbup:

Hi again Esperanza27!

As you can likely imagine, Kaplan can't very well reveal what direction we may or may not be going with future product development. I've passed along your inquiry/suggestion to our Product Development Team and I'm sure that they will take it under advisement.

I know that Kaplan is always going above and beyond to create new and exciting learning tools for medical professionals, so I'm sure whatever direction they go will be more than worthy of the Kaplan name and reputation of helping doctors ace their licensing exams.

Sorry I couldn't be more specific, but I hope this helps anyway!

-Amanda

I used Kaplan prep for MCAT and COMLEX step I and really thought they did an excellent job of preparing me! Don't know if I can afford it for step II, but here's to winning the raffle! :)

Hi prionsRbad!

I'm glad to hear of your continued success using Kaplan's products! I have a colleague that works very closely with your medical school. I'm going to PM you his contact information in hopes that you two can connect and he can make some more specific recommendations for your Step 2/Level 2 studies.

I hope this helps!

-Amanda

How does this compare to USMLE world?

Hi DrTacoElf!

I'm going to need you to be a little more specific? :confused:

Do you mean how does Kaplan's Online Prep compare to USMLE world? If this is the case, I'm not sure if they have a comparable product, but I can certainly look into it.

Or are you asking about how is Kaplan's Qbank different to USMLE world's Qbank? (which I can definitely answer for you)

Please let me know and one of my colleagues or I will reply ASAP.

-Amanda

This may have been asked before, but I couldn't find it. How well do these programs prep for COMLEX? Is the prep course more for USMLE, or are there applicable OMT lectures as well? Thanks!

This may have been asked before, but I couldn't find it. How well do these programs prep for COMLEX? Is the prep course more for USMLE, or are there applicable OMT lectures as well? Thanks!

Hi Vita,
Kaplan has programs that are specific for both programs, COMLEX and USMLE. We have COMLEX Live Lectures, COMLEX Web Based Lectures, and COMLEX qbanks that do contain OMT specific content. We often visit schools to discuss our COMLEX program, and provide discounts. If you'd like to hear more, please call 1-800-KAPTEST and speak with one of our medical advisors.

Thanks!

How often do they update online prep videos for Step 1?

Also do the most recent videos follow the books released last year?

Hi again Alphaholic06,

Check out the following thread... http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showthread.php?t=790797. It has all of the eligibility rules posted there...

Based on that and the fact that your profile says your an M4, I don't foresee any reason why you wouldn't qualify to win a Step 3 program and use it within an appropriate time frame since most residents take Step 3 during PGY1.
Hope this helps!

-Amanda

So for clarification, I would have my entire PGY-1 year to use your product?

So for clarification, I would have my entire PGY-1 year to use your product?

good question, i'd like to know also

After wrapping up my CK studies with Kaplan's QBank, I'm interested to see how the Step 3 one compares. As much as I enjoyed how challenging the QBank truly was, I was a little annoyed with how buggy the program would get. The ability to highlight worked unpredictably, and the answers would often overlay multimedia added to the questions. Have there been any updates to the functionality of the program recently?

Amanda,

Thanks again, for your reply. No worries, it was just an inquiry.
(In case, u knew something)

I do know regardless, Kaplan has always tried to go above and beyond.
And have been pretty much number one, for a very long time.
Regardless of what course one chooses to take, I think everyone can appreciate what Kaplan has always had to offer.
And the beauty of it, its not ONLY FOR THE USMLE.....
Thx!


Thank U greatly for your time,
:thumbup:,;)

Thanks for your reply! Also, would I be able to speed up the lecture videos (1.5-2x speed)?

Perhaps I just missed it, but can you elaborate on the Fischer review for Step 3 CCS cases? Does it consist of video lectures, or are they actual CCS cases? How many CCS practice cases are in your package? Thank you!

Hi mddoc1!

We recently revised the videos as needed, so the content is up-to-date. Page references to the current lecture notes are included.

Thank you!

After wrapping up my CK studies with Kaplan's QBank, I'm interested to see how the Step 3 one compares. As much as I enjoyed how challenging the QBank truly was, I was a little annoyed with how buggy the program would get. The ability to highlight worked unpredictably, and the answers would often overlay multimedia added to the questions. Have there been any updates to the functionality of the program recently?

Hi Golding,

Glad to hear the Step 2 Qbank was challenging! We will forward your comments about the problems you were having. If we receive feedback about problems with functionality, we address them immediately.

Amanda,

Thanks again, for your reply. No worries, it was just an inquiry.
(In case, u knew something)

I do know regardless, Kaplan has always tried to go above and beyond.
And have been pretty much number one, for a very long time.
Regardless of what course one chooses to take, I think everyone can appreciate what Kaplan has always had to offer.
And the beauty of it, its not ONLY FOR THE USMLE.....
Thx!


Thank U greatly for your time,
:thumbup:,;)

Hello esperanza27,

Thank you for your kind words! We appreciate so much that you noticed we work very hard to help every student succeed!

Hi,

Can you give me the subject wise hourly breakdown for step 2 ck 140 hours of video lecture.

Thanks for your reply! Also, would I be able to speed up the lecture videos (1.5-2x speed)?

Hi iA-MD2013!

There is a 1.5x speed feature which you can use to skip specific topics.

Thanks for asking!

Perhaps I just missed it, but can you elaborate on the Fischer review for Step 3 CCS cases? Does it consist of video lectures, or are they actual CCS cases? How many CCS practice cases are in your package? Thank you!

Hi Critters!

Comprehensive cases is over 19 hours of video lectures include extensive coverage of 20 commonly tested diseases with focus on the most important topics for Step 2 and Internal Medicine Rotations. Each session starts with a quiz so on test day you'll have the confidence to answer any questions on these topics. Each quiz is followed by explanations, including animations and relevant multimedia reflective of what's on the actual exam. For example, hearing the difference between heart sounds helps you recognize them on the exam.

You can try it for free:

http://www.kaptest.com/Medical-Licensing/Try-Us-For-Free/index.html

Hi,

Can you give me the subject wise hourly breakdown for step 2 ck 140 hours of video lecture.

Hi!

Here you go:

Dermatology,
Radiology/Imaging,
Ophthalmology 5 hrs
Internal Medicine 46 hrs
Neurology 5 hrs
Emergency Medicine 5 hrs
OB/GYN 28 hrs
Pediatrics 15.5 hrs
Psychiatry 8 hrs
Epidemiology & Ethics 9.5 hrs
Surgery 15.5 hrs
Test-Taking Strategies 3.5 hrs

Hello alphaholic and Neuro or Derm!

If you win, you have one year to enroll in the course.

Good luck!

Can any other users comment on how closely the questions from Kaplan's Q-Bank reflect those of the actual exam for Step 3?

Does Kaplan review have Step 3 CCS interactive software to practice this format of the exam?

Hello,

Since Step 1 has changed to the block format on several questions, i was wondering if some of the QBank questions for Step 1 is reflective of this change. What I mean by the block format is that they have one question and several questions afterwards pertaining to this one scenario.

Thanks!

Does Kaplan review have Step 3 CCS interactive software to practice this format of the exam?

Hello prosthret!

Our online products do not include practice software, but our Center Prep and Deluxe options do include video lectures for the CCS portion. QBank will help solidify concepts and focus your studying on areas that need improvement.

Although familiarity with the CCS interface is important, content knowledge is key to doing well. Most students need about two weeks with the interface to feel comfortable with the CCS. The USMLE website has free orientation materials available:

http://www.usmle.org/Orientation/2011/menu.html

Hello,

Since Step 1 has changed to the block format on several questions, i was wondering if some of the QBank questions for Step 1 is reflective of this change. What I mean by the block format is that they have one question and several questions afterwards pertaining to this one scenario.

Thanks!

Hello alesa!

Yes, we write our questions to reflect precisely what is on Step 1.

Thank you!

Is there any sort of labeling of the priority of videos? That is, which videos are "must-watch" and which are on lower-yielding topics?

On average, what do your students make on the step 2 ck after using your material? Do you provide a schedule for them to get through the material in a reasonable time frame?

I wish kaplan would come out with a set of AFFORDABLE books that could be used as a more comprehensive review for the step 1 (as compared to FA or medessentials). And by affordable, I mean under $150. Just an idea..plz enter me in the raffle! thanks

Is there any sort of labeling of the priority of videos? That is, which videos are "must-watch" and which are on lower-yielding topics?

Hi timisdaman,

There are higher-yield subjects (such as Path, Pharm, Micro/Immuno) but you should also use the results from your Diagnostic exam to concentrate on your weaker subjects.

We can send you more study tips and a list of high-yield subjects - just write to us at kapmed@kaplan.com.

On average, what do your students make on the step 2 ck after using your material? Do you provide a schedule for them to get through the material in a reasonable time frame?

Hello medsend!

These are very good questions. We do not have enough data of student scores after using our materials, but we can attest to a high success rate. We help students develop their own study schedule because everyone's situation is different. Some students need a more comprehensive review, where others need to refresh the content and practice questions. Also, we take into account that some students have more time to prepare than others.

Thank you!

I wish kaplan would come out with a set of AFFORDABLE books that could be used as a more comprehensive review for the step 1 (as compared to FA or medessentials). And by affordable, I mean under $150. Just an idea..plz enter me in the raffle! thanks

Hello Nikki2002!

We value all ideas, so will forward your request to our curriculum department. Unfortunately, the raffle closed on March 11th, but please join our Qbank Challenge, if you haven't already. In addition to the free question practice, you can earn rewards just by playing! You can also try Qbank for free:

http://www.kaptest.com/Medical-Licensing/Try-Us-For-Free/index.html