"I have heard that different questions are graded differently on USMLE steps."
Reality Check: Fiction
Explanation:
USMLE weights all multiple choice questions equally within each Step exam. Thus, answering relatively easy questions or relatively difficult questions correctly provides equal progress toward meeting the minimum passing score. This urban myth may derive from a misunderstanding about the statistical methods called equating that ensure that the 3-digit score is comparable regardless of what test form or what time of year a candidate tests. The statistical processes make small adjustments to scores achieved on test forms that contain relatively more or less difficult items. Scores on tests with relatively difficult items are adjusted up and those achieved on relatively easy items are adjusted down. These adjustments ensure that the scores that are awarded are comparable regardless of the particular combination of items on any examinee's test form and ensures fairness for all test takers.
"I have heard that if you take Step 1 in May through July, you will get a lower score or fail because a lot of candidates test during this period and competition is high."
Reality Check: Fiction
Explanation:
The USMLE uses statistical techniques called equating to ensure that the 3-digit score is comparable regardless of what test form or what time of year a candidate tests. There are, however, natural ebbs and flows to the preparation, readiness, and demographic composition that may be associated with the success of candidates who take or retake Step 1 at particular times of the year, which can lead to modest variations in pass rates. For example, specific, highly selective US medical schools whose students typically have very high pass rates tend to test within specific time bands associated with their curriculum, resulting in somewhat higher pass rates during this period. In contrast, students who were unsuccessful on their first attempt tend to retake at other times of the year, resulting in somewhat higher fail rates at that time of year. The statistical techniques used ensure that the same standard is applied to all students regardless of what time of year they test or what test form they are administered.
