ABP prep essentials?

[smatt16]

I'm just curious from those who recently took the ABP what picture resource do they think is the best. I know Zitelli is quoted as frequently having the same pictures as on the ABP but that is a dense book? Any suggestions would be appreciated! Also, specifically how does MedStudy compare to the Laughing series? I am Med-Peds and I have 1.5 years until I graduate but I also have the ABIM to study for. Thanks

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[ZekeMD]

Medstudy is terrible. I read through it once and it was painful! It is poorly written and not all that high-yield. I liked laughing your way and read through it a couple times. It was useful.

 

[mdphd2b]

Medstudy is terrible. I read through it once and it was painful! It is poorly written and not all that high-yield. I liked laughing your way and read through it a couple times. It was useful.

Totally agree with ZekeMD. MedStudy is expensive and a lot of hype. Since each chapter is written by the subspecialist, it's very dense and boring to finish. Not very high yield for Boards, but it was a good reference for rotations during residency.
LYW hits the high points, and you can fill in unclear areas with MedStudy images/tables.
Also look at pictures, such as Zitelli's +/- the LYW picture book. But also remember that despite your studying the "classic" high quality images for the boards, the images on the real thing will be fuzzy and sub-optimal
Do 4-5 years of PREP questions (do online or on CD, since beginning 2012 Boards will be computerized) and read the explanations to help review CONTENT. FYI, the ABP questions are not really like PREP questions, so don't expect the same level of detail in case scenarios on the boards. Boards have way more distractors and vague or non-specific findings that really try to trip you up, while PREP questions are designed to help you "learn". If you have more time, try other practice questions, like LYW.

Hope this helps

 

[pedidoc999]

I skimmed Zitelli a few days before the test.

I studied at a desk with a computer, so I also did quick google image searches while I studied. I typically did this just to refresh on things like syndrome features or rashes. Never underestimate the power of the internet!