How much studying for Step 1 is really necessary?

[kd]

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I just started studying for Step 1 this weekend. I have about 20 review books for every conceivable 1st and 2nd year subject- but I try to read them and I'm BORED TO DEATH! Everythingl gets all jumbled in my mind and I don't retain anything. I get a lot more out of doing practice questions on Qbank, where I'm scoring around 65% right now.
Has anyone tried studying for Step 1 just by doing lots of practice questions, then looking up anything that comes up on a practice test that you don't remember? I thought maybe I'd do all the QBank questions and all the Board Simulator questions, read all the explanations, and leave it at that. Am I crazy to think I can still pass this way?

 

[theodore]

Probably you are not crazy, at least not using the sources that you mentioned. I just think that overall it takes more time this way than if you study a specific subject and then do questions on it. However, if you have a strong foundation from your regular courses your strategy will probably not harm your score.

 

[kcrd]

hi kd,
I'm feeling the same thing you are - bored. And it doesn't help that I've decided to start with physio, my worst subject, and one that is completely dull (in my opinion).

I don't think it's uncommon for people to study directly from q bank, brs questions and first aid alone. I think it can work if you did well in your 1st 2 years, and you remember a good deal of the information.
kcrd

 

[sweetfynesse]

kd,

I remember those days, though not too fondly. I opted to study one review source (First Aid) and as many questions as I could find. If FA didn't cover something as I needed, then I would peruse another book (not often, though). It worked out great. I think you're going to lose precious time going through several review books on the same subject (they all have the same info, just in a different order). Get one or two books, and memorize (learn) them as best you can. As for the questions, you have a good plan. Questions are defintely important, and they should comprise the majority of your studying, IMHO.

Best of wishes