is kaplan harder?

[kai35]

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This thread has probably been written several times... but I have the Kaplan practice Step 1 tests. I keep scoring in the 68-72% range. However, I went to take an actual test from the USMLE (from 1998 and 1999) and scored 82% and 83%.

My question is, if anyone knows, has Step 1 gotten harder over the years? Or is this just a reflection of Kaplan? I teach MCAT for Kaplan and I know that some of their practice MCATs are a lot harder than the ones AAMC puts out. Wondering if anyone knows if this applies to Step 1, as well.

Thanks!

 

[danzman]

OK, just how did you get an actual USMLE test? Not talking about an NBME practice test are you?

 

[killinsound]

i'd be wary about interpreting a test from 1999. the test has changed a lot since then.

 

[kai35]

OK, just how did you get an actual USMLE test? Not talking about an NBME practice test are you?

Yes, that's what it is. It has the USMLE logo on the front upper left corner. It's in packet format and I got it from my school's library reserves. On the front it says "Step 1 General Instructions, Content Description, and Sample Items" and on the bottom it says "National Board of Medical Examiners"... so I think it is an NBME practice test, as you say.

 

[Krazykyle]

Yes, that's what it is. It has the USMLE logo on the front upper left corner. It's in packet format and I got it from my school's library reserves. On the front it says "Step 1 General Instructions, Content Description, and Sample Items" and on the bottom it says "National Board of Medical Examiners"... so I think it is an NBME practice test, as you say.

A 34 year old male with a history of leprosy comes to your clinic. You decide to perform blood letting, the current standard of care...

Ha. J/K. 1999 is a long time ago in science though. I would not have any faith in the correlation.

 

[kryptik]

to answer your question, yes kaplan is harder