first aid step 2

[mrnight]

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how come no one seems to use first aid for step 2. First aid was the book for step 1 why is it never mentioed as a source people use for step 2 prep. Do u all think it is worth getting or not and if not what do u reccommend

 

[pmpkn219]

There's a bright green book called Step 2 Secrets which I liked very much.

I just used that and USMLE World q-bank. Secrets is set up Q&A style- like "what is the number 1 reason for post-op fever?" or whatever, then a very helpful yet concise explanation. I liked it better than the FA outline/bullet format.

 

[Clemson Doc]

I think First Aid for Step 2 is a good book. I have not taken Step 2 yet, or really started studying much, but from flipping through First Aid it looks like a thorough and high yield book. I don't necessarily think that First Aid for Step 2 is any less valuable than for Step 1, but the difference is that many people don't have the time or interest in studying for Step 2 like they did Step 1. If most people spent 5-6 weeks preparing for Step 2, instead of 2-3 weeks, they would have more time to absorb what is in First Aid for Step 2. Plus, people here have proven that USMLEWorld is probably the best resource, coupled with another review book (many like Step 2 Secrets). Crush Step 2 is also popular, probably because it's a fairly easy read in comparison to First Aid for Step 2.

If you like the First Aid format, and want a good resource for Step 2, I would buy it and use it. If you prefer paragraph/textbook form, get Crush Step 2. If you like Q&A format, get Step 2 Secrets. You can also use a combination of the above. I plan on using First Aid for Step 2, just because I'm anal like than and really want to learn the material. I will probably also use Step 2 Secrets and of course USMLEWorld.

 

[pmpkn219]

I think the difference for me (between Steps 1 & 2 study) was that the first time, I was Learning that material... i just didn't get it in class. For Step 2, I truly felt like I was "reviewing" at least 95% of it... the difference in my scores I think back up that theory!

I felt my 3rd year clerkships were a big help, so I didn't feel compelled to dive into a huge book, since all I needed was a booster. To that end, UW questions probably would've been enough, but Secrets was cheap (used anyway), and I heard good things. I think I went through it twice... once near the start of my 2 week (dedicated) study time, and again a couple days before the exam.