Guidance on USMLE preparation( steps 1,2 and 3)

[aem177]

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Still new to this so any advice is appreciated.

As far as I understand, Step 1 is usually taken after year 2 and step 2 CK and CS are taken in the senior year. Step 3 is taken during residency. Also, step 1 takes a long time to prepare(~1 year).

My question is, do people usually study for steps 1 and 2 CK at the same time? Or is it best to first tackle step 1, take it immediately after year 2 and then move on to step 2 CK studying?

Since step 2 CS is pass/fail, I am assuming that most people don't prepare heavily on that. Please correct me if I'm wrong.

Step 3 is taken during residency so worry about that later.

 

[Buffeye]

Typically, people study for each exam individually. Only steps 2 CK and CS overlap. Step 1 is Basic Science material, so there's no use in studying for step 2 CK at that time. Unless you are already in third year of medical school and getting clinical experience.