IM shelf prep with low step 1

[nontradnyc]

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i got a low-pass on step 1 and am struggling to get even the average score on 3rd year shelf exams. i follow the advice (e.g. "just do UWorld") of classmates that score above average on the shelves only marginally improve my scores.

i am beginning to think that perhaps i need to hear tips from anyone who academically struggled but still mastered the information tested in 3rd year (specifically IM shelf) -- as reflected by an average or above average score on shelf exams or step 2 ck?

if you followed the same standard advice offered (eg "do more practice questions") for shelf exams but also got a below nat'l avg score on step 1, what did you change in your approach to preparing for shelf exams that yielded a score you were happy with?

i know there's a possibility i've reached my glass ceiling of improvement, but i want to prod this community a little to see what you well meaning people may have to say.

thanks all and happy med student-ing!

 

[ewax]

Honestly, Uworld should be sufficient for most shelf exams it might not be if your fundamentals aren't up to snuff. I'd try to review something like onlinemeded/emma holiday/step up to medicine to get a better grasp of what you need to be studying and then do Uworld. Make sure you thoroughly go over the answers and explanations. Good luck.

 

[GadRads]

Read master the boards for step 2 ck. That resource with U-World should be sufficient.

 

[sliceofbread136]

Read master the boards for step 2 ck. That resource with U-World should be sufficient.

This and you can also do online med Ed if videos are your thing.

Make sure to do the practice shelfs so you can gauge your progress and see if what you are doing is working

 

[BamaNicole]

Depends on what your idea learning is....I read and outline in things like step up to medicine. Then I do IM essential questions, Uworld, NBMEs and USMLERX questions.

What seems to help me is doing as many questions as I possibly can.