Just wanted to thank everybody. I passed. Highly recommend the review in New Jersey with Rahman. Just read his notes 3-4 times and I think you'll be fine. I did that and MKSAP Q's 3 times. One source of material and qbank...master it and you'll be fine. I did terrible on my in-service but am so happy right now.
Official ABIM 2015 Thread
- Thread starter ABIM MD
- Start date
- Joined
- Oct 5, 2015
- Messages
- 10
- Reaction score
- 0
An online report
- Joined
- Oct 5, 2015
- Messages
- 10
- Reaction score
- 0
Same here. Only "pass" for now. Not sure when the actual score report will drop.
- Joined
- Oct 20, 2007
- Messages
- 41
- Reaction score
- 3
I walked into my office when a colleague "advised" me to check the ABIM site. I had this knot in my stomach cause I would have rather been told I passed rather then having to look in a room with my fellow fellows but was relived to see that I passed. I know of some who have not but again who knows if those were the ones who took the 7 oct exam. My advice for those reading who will be taking the 2016 exam is to start early and do questions. Understand the concepts. You can read one of my previous posts for what worked for me but in all honesty many of us who passed utilized various and different sources which goes to show you that there is not one magical source out there. Ultimately it's effort and conceptual understanding that is important when it comes to being successful on the exam.
- Joined
- Aug 18, 2015
- Messages
- 11
- Reaction score
- 9
I passed as well. Which is kind of surprising because my ITE's sucked (30-60th percentile) and I only studied for 5 weeks. Our program didn't really give us enough time to prepare, which sucked. What really helped me was doing questions over and over and over. When you get something wrong, it's humiliating, but you'll remember it better. And making flashcards: I ended up with about 2,200 flashcards which I covered in about two days at a time. Unlike many others here I did not use Board Basics 3 because it was published in like, 2012 and a lot of stuff was sure to be out of date. I could be wrong though.
Yay, passed. Fwiw - I completely bombed my ITE, like < 10th% (never took it 3rd year), and still passed. So FU to all those predictive calculators and admins telling me I would bomb the exam. I didn't crack a book or do even a single question during most of residency (lazy, I know). studied a few months before, read BB3, did most the MKSAP questions per section approx 2-3 times each (completed skipped all of ONc...Oops) and took notes which I reviewed a week before. I was working 120 hrs/week in fellowship in July and August so thought I was for sure going to fail. Maybe the curve was extra easy this year?
- Joined
- Jul 18, 2014
- Messages
- 13
- Reaction score
- 5
Does anyone know someone who failed last year and pass this year??? I have a few colleagues who retake their exam this year (as second attempts) and their status is still said "Not Certified"? Does this mean that they didn't pass or the status is not updated yet???
- Joined
- Mar 11, 2006
- Messages
- 294
- Reaction score
- 34
I'm a subspecialist attending and I finally passed this exam on the third try. I completed a large academic residency program in 2012 and spent 3 years in fellowship, just recently starting my first real job in private practice. I made the mistake and didn't take the IM exam my first year of fellowship, thinking I'd have more time to study later in fellowship. My first take at the exam I used MKSAP books/questions mainly but it was a difficult time as my grandfather was doing poorly and passed the day before the exam. I knew my mind wasn't in the right place and I should have not taken the exam, but did just in case I would pass it. The following year I used the same strategy with MKSAP/BB books/q's and really took time to study. Or so I thought because I failed the exam by a few points. This really got me down, it made me feel really bad and I even wondered if I was ever going to pass this. I wondered how it would affect future job prospects since I would be searching for attending positions shortly.
This time, I didn't read MKSAP books but rather used MEDSTUDY texts. I read all of those books, Board Basics, and bought a subscription to NEJM to read the clinical practice series, reviews, etc. I did all of the MEDSTUDY questions. I did some of the MKSAP questions, maybe 20-30% of them as time allowed. And thank god, I passed this time. No score report yet but I don't really care, I'm just happy I passed and can put this behind me.
And for what it's worth, nobody in the real world cared I didn't pass the exam. Employers didn't care. My future partners didn't care. They all had the same advice - it happens, just regroup and study hard. And for that, too, I am thankful. I have a GREAT private practice job and can finally focus on that board exam now, but I'm not too worried about that because I scored very well on those inservice exams. Best of luck to all and let this serve as some hope to those who have to take the test more than once.
This time, I didn't read MKSAP books but rather used MEDSTUDY texts. I read all of those books, Board Basics, and bought a subscription to NEJM to read the clinical practice series, reviews, etc. I did all of the MEDSTUDY questions. I did some of the MKSAP questions, maybe 20-30% of them as time allowed. And thank god, I passed this time. No score report yet but I don't really care, I'm just happy I passed and can put this behind me.
And for what it's worth, nobody in the real world cared I didn't pass the exam. Employers didn't care. My future partners didn't care. They all had the same advice - it happens, just regroup and study hard. And for that, too, I am thankful. I have a GREAT private practice job and can finally focus on that board exam now, but I'm not too worried about that because I scored very well on those inservice exams. Best of luck to all and let this serve as some hope to those who have to take the test more than once.
- Joined
- Nov 17, 2011
- Messages
- 91
- Reaction score
- 10
____
I have never heard anything more ridiculous, try to get privileges at hospital or malpractice insurance without board. Good luck with subspecialty board.....
So, here's my experience, hope it helps some one. I passed this year on the third try. As background, I've always had significant issues with test anxiety since highschool, but always compensated by studying harder and longer; did med school and residency at large academic centers in US. Did a chief residency year and got into heme/onc fellowship at a large academic center. My first year taking the test, I took Awesome Board Review. I had studied on and off from MKSAP before taking the course, but had not ready all the MKSAP books. I read the ABR books twice, some sections more than twice and did all of MKSAP. My final average on the MKSAP was 80%. I studied for total of about 4 months. I failed the test by about 15 points. Second time I took the test, again, read ABR books three times. Did all of MKSAP questions twice. Final overall score on MKSAP was 99%. Overall study time about 6 months (after work, all weekends). I took the test while in fellowship, but felt that I had enough time to study. Had significant anxiety, but felt good coming out of the exam. Failed the test by about 10 points.
This last time, I talked to one of my friends who had also failed twice, and was in a good fellowship program, had just gotten an attending job and passed the exam on her third try as well. She recommended switching gears and doing MedStudy. I did MedStudy books and videos. I took notes, made flashcards, studied my behind off. I started heavy duty studying in November 2014, starting with sections I had done the worst on the previous year. Took a month off in February due to a health issue and picked back up heavy duty studying in March 2015. Did almost all of MedStudy questions. Read and re-read all answers and explanations, especially for the questions I got wrong. Watched the videos after I had read the books twice and taken notes. Took notes off of videos. I booked a room in the library and took a full length practice test offered by MedStudy and got 82% on it, about two weeks before the test. Reviewed sections that I didn't do as well on. Was very careful to try to not make stupid mistakes during the actual test in terms of reading all the questions and answer choices and not answering questions hastily. Felt good about the test, but I had been so traumatized by the previous two years that I was nervous as can be until scores came out today.
Having said all of that, I also saw a therapist, one who worked with people who specifically had test taking anxiety. I saw him every couple of weeks throughout the year. The relaxation and visualization methods he taught me were absolutely invaluable (no medications of any kind involved whatsoever). I mention this, because I know it's not some thing that most people want to talk about, but there is a lot of smart people out there who work hard and study hard, but don't do well on tests and I don't think at our level (residents, fellows) this is some thing that is addressed or talked about at all.
My advice: Take the test seriously, don't listen to people who say, "oh I studied two months and barely read any thing and only did questions, etc... and did fine". That maybe fine for some people, but for most, this test takes a lot of study-time and hard work, regardless of how well you did on your ITE during residency. If you've had issues with test anxiety, please do not brush them aside, get help, talk to some one, it may be the thing that makes the difference for you. And, finally, if you've failed the test before, I know, it sucks, I've been there, but do not despair. Take a deep breath, read this forum, talk to friends and see what you need to change in your study method and then hit the ground running once you've gotten over the initial shock of having failed. This is an important test from a professional/practical stand point (getting a job, etc...) but it does not define you as a physician or how good or competent you are. You can do this and forums like this can help.
This last time, I talked to one of my friends who had also failed twice, and was in a good fellowship program, had just gotten an attending job and passed the exam on her third try as well. She recommended switching gears and doing MedStudy. I did MedStudy books and videos. I took notes, made flashcards, studied my behind off. I started heavy duty studying in November 2014, starting with sections I had done the worst on the previous year. Took a month off in February due to a health issue and picked back up heavy duty studying in March 2015. Did almost all of MedStudy questions. Read and re-read all answers and explanations, especially for the questions I got wrong. Watched the videos after I had read the books twice and taken notes. Took notes off of videos. I booked a room in the library and took a full length practice test offered by MedStudy and got 82% on it, about two weeks before the test. Reviewed sections that I didn't do as well on. Was very careful to try to not make stupid mistakes during the actual test in terms of reading all the questions and answer choices and not answering questions hastily. Felt good about the test, but I had been so traumatized by the previous two years that I was nervous as can be until scores came out today.
Having said all of that, I also saw a therapist, one who worked with people who specifically had test taking anxiety. I saw him every couple of weeks throughout the year. The relaxation and visualization methods he taught me were absolutely invaluable (no medications of any kind involved whatsoever). I mention this, because I know it's not some thing that most people want to talk about, but there is a lot of smart people out there who work hard and study hard, but don't do well on tests and I don't think at our level (residents, fellows) this is some thing that is addressed or talked about at all.
My advice: Take the test seriously, don't listen to people who say, "oh I studied two months and barely read any thing and only did questions, etc... and did fine". That maybe fine for some people, but for most, this test takes a lot of study-time and hard work, regardless of how well you did on your ITE during residency. If you've had issues with test anxiety, please do not brush them aside, get help, talk to some one, it may be the thing that makes the difference for you. And, finally, if you've failed the test before, I know, it sucks, I've been there, but do not despair. Take a deep breath, read this forum, talk to friends and see what you need to change in your study method and then hit the ground running once you've gotten over the initial shock of having failed. This is an important test from a professional/practical stand point (getting a job, etc...) but it does not define you as a physician or how good or competent you are. You can do this and forums like this can help.
Last edited:
- Joined
- Nov 17, 2011
- Messages
- 91
- Reaction score
- 10
ok I passed the boards. I did not study almost at all. I started cards fellowship on cath rotation and there was no time to study. I did preventive medicine from MKASP and may be 200 questions from general medicine section. I almost did not go to the exam but my ITE scores were always 85-90 percentile so I thought I will give a shot.
What annoys me is, how ABIM treats us. Ok, they give time window for results to come. I get this, but today, no email about results, nothing, no info at all. This is outrageous and very disrespectfull. Someone from forum calls board about timing of results and they with smile on the face say no results before Nov 16th only to release results same day without saying anything. What the F... is that???? This is a joke!!! We are not a bunch of high school students....not to mention that we paid over 1k for this ******ed exam. I wish one year everybody boycott the boards...and go bankrupt...fu......les, sorry I can't go over this.....
What annoys me is, how ABIM treats us. Ok, they give time window for results to come. I get this, but today, no email about results, nothing, no info at all. This is outrageous and very disrespectfull. Someone from forum calls board about timing of results and they with smile on the face say no results before Nov 16th only to release results same day without saying anything. What the F... is that???? This is a joke!!! We are not a bunch of high school students....not to mention that we paid over 1k for this ******ed exam. I wish one year everybody boycott the boards...and go bankrupt...fu......les, sorry I can't go over this.....
- Joined
- Mar 11, 2006
- Messages
- 294
- Reaction score
- 34
It's true my friend. As long as you are "board eligible" it doesn't matter. I had full practicing privileges at large area hospitals (academic and private) and malpractice insurance being board eligible.
- Joined
- Oct 8, 2015
- Messages
- 3
- Reaction score
- 0
Unfortunately this means that they did not pass. I passed this year on my second attempt and my status is certified.
- Joined
- Oct 8, 2015
- Messages
- 1
- Reaction score
- 0
I have been a follower for the ABIM thread, and it helped me a lot preparing for the ABIM exam. Thank God , I passed this test and I can't be more thankful. For those who didn't pass, hey listen, it is not an easy test, I found it harder than the USMLE tests.Don't lose confidence. Prepare well and you will pass it the next time. From my own experience, I would provide few advices and comments that may help who are planning to take the test next year.
-Prepare well, don't say"I will just pass it", you may fail regardless how good you are IF YOU DONT TAKE IT SERIOUSLY.
-MKSAP is a great source, BUT , ALONE , IT IS NOT ENOUGH, YOU SHOUD DO ANOTHER Q-BANK WITH IT. Read the BB at least twice, and do the questions tow to three times.
-UWORLD is the best source of info, Use it as source to get information, and not to evaluate your knowledge. Make notes form the explanations.
-If you have time do the MEDSTUDY questions, there are some information that are not provided by MKSAP.
-DONT BELIEVE ANY ONE WHO PASSED THE TEST AND CLAIMS THAT HE OR SHE DID NOT PREPARE FOR IT .
-You must do either UW or MEDSTUDY with the MKSAP Qbank, preferably UW.
-If possible, take at least 2 weeks off prior to the exam if you are working.
Good luck everyone!
-Prepare well, don't say"I will just pass it", you may fail regardless how good you are IF YOU DONT TAKE IT SERIOUSLY.
-MKSAP is a great source, BUT , ALONE , IT IS NOT ENOUGH, YOU SHOUD DO ANOTHER Q-BANK WITH IT. Read the BB at least twice, and do the questions tow to three times.
-UWORLD is the best source of info, Use it as source to get information, and not to evaluate your knowledge. Make notes form the explanations.
-If you have time do the MEDSTUDY questions, there are some information that are not provided by MKSAP.
-DONT BELIEVE ANY ONE WHO PASSED THE TEST AND CLAIMS THAT HE OR SHE DID NOT PREPARE FOR IT .
-You must do either UW or MEDSTUDY with the MKSAP Qbank, preferably UW.
-If possible, take at least 2 weeks off prior to the exam if you are working.
Good luck everyone!
- Joined
- Mar 19, 2006
- Messages
- 5,168
- Reaction score
- 139
Passed. This is what I did in order:
1. Watched the Pass Machine Videos once
2. Know.medge questions
3. Medstudy questions
4. MKSAP questions
I wanted to do U world questions at the end, but I was way to tired.
1. Watched the Pass Machine Videos once
2. Know.medge questions
3. Medstudy questions
4. MKSAP questions
I wanted to do U world questions at the end, but I was way to tired.
- Joined
- Oct 8, 2015
- Messages
- 2
- Reaction score
- 0
Hi there... I'm also paying it forward. This forum is awesome.
Here is my story for those this may help...
I'm an IMG, did IM in a very busy place, didn't have time to study during residency. Terrible scores in IT exams... Less than 10 percentile on 3 of them. As statistics dictate I failed my first attempt with 352 (205 correct answers) For my first attempt: I started studying in April, I studied MKSAP and did all questions once, I read some of the material in the BB3. But as expected it was not enough. I was devastated and ashamed when I failed, but you gotta shake it off, and try it until you get it!
Second time around I prepared better: started in January did all MkSAP questions TWICE, I read and made flash cards from MEdStudy books, did qbank from NEJM (I liked it better than UWorld... Which I tried and its questions are impossible, and MEdStudy QB ...which I also tried but its questions are too easy and basic) I found NEJM QB to be fair. Then during last month I read BB3 and reviewed my flash cards. I passed after all this preparation (waiting on my score), I'm glad to inform that I feel after all this study, it made me become a better clinician.
Bottom line: you can pass the boards even if your IT scores suck...you just need to study harder...beat the statistics!!!
PS. I left the exam feeling that I had failed again...it really mess up with your minds...be cool on exam day....it is important to keep the calm. Best of luck!
Here is my story for those this may help...
I'm an IMG, did IM in a very busy place, didn't have time to study during residency. Terrible scores in IT exams... Less than 10 percentile on 3 of them. As statistics dictate I failed my first attempt with 352 (205 correct answers) For my first attempt: I started studying in April, I studied MKSAP and did all questions once, I read some of the material in the BB3. But as expected it was not enough. I was devastated and ashamed when I failed, but you gotta shake it off, and try it until you get it!
Second time around I prepared better: started in January did all MkSAP questions TWICE, I read and made flash cards from MEdStudy books, did qbank from NEJM (I liked it better than UWorld... Which I tried and its questions are impossible, and MEdStudy QB ...which I also tried but its questions are too easy and basic) I found NEJM QB to be fair. Then during last month I read BB3 and reviewed my flash cards. I passed after all this preparation (waiting on my score), I'm glad to inform that I feel after all this study, it made me become a better clinician.
Bottom line: you can pass the boards even if your IT scores suck...you just need to study harder...beat the statistics!!!
PS. I left the exam feeling that I had failed again...it really mess up with your minds...be cool on exam day....it is important to keep the calm. Best of luck!
- Joined
- Oct 8, 2015
- Messages
- 2
- Reaction score
- 0
Either they didn't take it or they didn't pass it
I passed this test the 2nd time around. this forum helped me get my act together and provided me some valuable tool and ideas. That being said here are some tips that did that help me pass this ABIM test.
1. give it the attention it deserves. start early.
2. get the blue print from ABIM. this helped me tremendously, it focuses me into what I need to study on. Cards/GI/ID/General IM.
3. I tailored it and use MKSAP/MEDSTUDY and only the MERK manual to study. I made my own questions and flash cards.
4. Finally, I used only one source of questions from board vitals. again, I focus on the blue print and answer the questions from these big sections.
I did not use a study partner, but I study after work and on the weekends. Averaging 2 hr/day and about 5 hrs during the weekend days. It actually help my patient care at work, a secondary side effect.
for the last month, I took simulated tests, under test conditions. I belief building up your test stamina is important. After the first sim test, I did not know my own name, but with subsequent tests, I was able to overcome my fatigue. I was able to perform optimally during the actual exam.
I wish you all the best. stay positive.
very respectfully
1. give it the attention it deserves. start early.
2. get the blue print from ABIM. this helped me tremendously, it focuses me into what I need to study on. Cards/GI/ID/General IM.
3. I tailored it and use MKSAP/MEDSTUDY and only the MERK manual to study. I made my own questions and flash cards.
4. Finally, I used only one source of questions from board vitals. again, I focus on the blue print and answer the questions from these big sections.
I did not use a study partner, but I study after work and on the weekends. Averaging 2 hr/day and about 5 hrs during the weekend days. It actually help my patient care at work, a secondary side effect.
for the last month, I took simulated tests, under test conditions. I belief building up your test stamina is important. After the first sim test, I did not know my own name, but with subsequent tests, I was able to overcome my fatigue. I was able to perform optimally during the actual exam.
I wish you all the best. stay positive.
very respectfully
- Joined
- Jan 18, 2012
- Messages
- 37
- Reaction score
- 0
Congrats to everyone who passed, and good luck to everyone who needs to retake it. I passed, thankfully. First time test taker, studied MKSAP 16 only once; in fact, I didn't touch derm or neuro (bad mistake). I started studying 2 months before the exam, and took a 1 week vacation right before the exam where I barely touched any study material. I went to an average academic residency program - this alone is what prepared me the most for the exam. Doing numerous passes through multiple prep material is not how this exam is meant to be prepared for; training throughout residency is what should prepare you for the exam. Studying for the exam should be more focused on exam taking skills rather than raw knowledge (you will not expand your knowledge in any meaningful way by cramming for months; everything will disappear a few weeks after the test). More power to everyone who used multiple resources to prepare, but for those who are still in training, I will tell you that MKSAP is more than enough provided that you approached your residency every day as a learner. Approach the exam with the mentality that you learned most of its material through residency; you now only need to take this material and integrate it into your test taking skills.
- Joined
- Oct 5, 2015
- Messages
- 10
- Reaction score
- 0
My actual score report is up
- Joined
- Oct 8, 2015
- Messages
- 1
- Reaction score
- 0
Couldn't agree more w/ what's underlined above.
The following is the info I was looking for when I was studying so I'm sharing it for the "future generation" of test-takers:
- Residency: "top-tier" (according to SDN) IM university program
- Eval: Top 10% of my residency class and medical school based on clinical skills/evals/etc.
- Test taking abilities: Average
- ITE PGY-3: Percentile in the teens! (either bc I lacked the medical knowledge at the time or bc I only read every other question so I can get out by noon and have an extra half day off in residency; I guess we'll never know)
- ABIM: Passed on first attempt with very comfortable margins
Study material:
- MKSAP 16: Completed all questions x1, taking random 50 question tests at a time from all subjects (timed and strictly closed book); Read all answers and explanations for essentially all questions; Took notes and re-reviewed my notes few days before the exam. Did not touch the MKSAP books. Completed w/ a score of ~65% on first attempt.
- ACP Board Review Videos: Can't recommend these strongly enough. Probably wouldn't have passed without them (?) Well worth the money and IMHO much better than live sessions as you can watch them at your leisure and they are the recordings of the same sessions. Watched 75% of them (would've watched all if I had time).
- Study time: 125-150hrs over a 3-3.5 week period (about 6-8hrs/day). Did ZERO review prior to finishing residency.
- Tip: After you are done reading this thread once, stay away from SDN until you get your results!
As previous poster pointed out, IMHO residency is what (hopefully) prepares you for this exam and the prep is to close knowledge gaps. The above technique worked for me for ABIM (and essentially all other board exams), it may or may not work for you!
Good luck to everyone and I will post again in 10yrs about my recert experience (if that's still a thing in 2025)!
- Joined
- Oct 16, 2014
- Messages
- 3
- Reaction score
- 1
Passed!!! for those that did not pass, do not be discouraged. i passed after 2 attempts. this test is not easy by any means. You really have to study and be disciplined.
first time around: only studied mksap questions and did not take the test seriously and failed miserably.
2nd time around, bought medstudy books and studied the books x2 and did mksap questions x3. again bad idea. and failed again.
i was discouraged to the point of tears because i was working already and feared losing my job as board certification is a requirement!! . what worked for me 3rd time around??
AWESOME REVIEW by Dr Habib Rahman. excellent review and very high yield. would not have passed without this course.
also..spent tons of money on above and medstudy : medstudy videos, medstudy flashcards and questions. I would even listen to Medstudy lectures while driving to work and wake up at 5am before work and before my baby woke up to study! studied awesome review notes many times over, watched med study videos on my phone, and did medstudy questions 6x through. I know that was overkill but i NEEDED to pass to keep my job and my sanity.
I hope that helps. for those that didn't pass, I know how you feel :/ but don't lose hope you WILL pass. Good luck!
first time around: only studied mksap questions and did not take the test seriously and failed miserably.
2nd time around, bought medstudy books and studied the books x2 and did mksap questions x3. again bad idea. and failed again.
i was discouraged to the point of tears because i was working already and feared losing my job as board certification is a requirement!! . what worked for me 3rd time around??
AWESOME REVIEW by Dr Habib Rahman. excellent review and very high yield. would not have passed without this course.
also..spent tons of money on above and medstudy : medstudy videos, medstudy flashcards and questions. I would even listen to Medstudy lectures while driving to work and wake up at 5am before work and before my baby woke up to study! studied awesome review notes many times over, watched med study videos on my phone, and did medstudy questions 6x through. I know that was overkill but i NEEDED to pass to keep my job and my sanity.
I hope that helps. for those that didn't pass, I know how you feel :/ but don't lose hope you WILL pass. Good luck!
- Joined
- Nov 3, 2007
- Messages
- 271
- Reaction score
- 1
I posted earlier that I passed, but wanted to let people know what I did to study.
My first 2 years of residency, my ITE scores sucked (in the teens). In between 1st and 2nd year's ITEs I pseudo studied by reading MKSAP and doing MKSAP questions, and my ITE scores did not change. After the 2nd year's score remained the same, that was a reality check (and with some pushing from the department), I really dedicated myself to studying because I did not want to "fail" my 3rd ITE because I would really not feel good about going into boards then.
So, in the spring of my 2nd year, I got PASS machine videos, and went through at that time the 2013 videos as the 2014 IMX ones had not been done yet. Did 2013 that year, and then waited til this past spring to do 2014 (there may have been some more uptodate info in 2015 this year but I did not seem to miss it).
I also got MKSAP online and did MKSAP questions again, and read a lot of board basics. I did not read MKSAP books this time.
I instead read through Med study books and Med Study flash cards.
My process would be, read the medstudy book associated with the topic, watch and take notes of pass machine videos, do the flash cards and read board basics then finally do medstudy questions. I did this to go through every major subject over the 6-7 months from the spring to ITE in September.
About a month prior to ITE I got Know-medge Qbank. I wanted to pay for a years worth so didn't want to get it before August so I could have it up until boards. I really loved their Qbank.
I took ITE September last year and got 92nd percentile, so I felt like my system was working.
I took some time off from dedicated studying. Then late spring started back with re-reading board basics, watching the 2014 IMX pass machine videos and taking notes and going through know-medge bank again.
I also got married before the end of Residency and went on a 3 week honeymoon for a good chunk of July..
Prior to honeymoon I got through most of Know-medge questions again. I would save the pdf of each question, and then put PDFs of each subject together and flip through them like flash cards.
I also finished Pass machine prior to honeymoon.
I essentially did no studying during honeymoon (I half heartedly read through some board basics sections towards the tail end, but I really don't count that)
So after I got back I had about 3.5 weeks til the exam- I went through all my pass machine notes, did my know-medge pdf question flash cards multiple times, did medstudy flash cards, read through board basics multiple times and also got the know-medge flash cards and went through all those as well. I did some MKSAP questions and the tests that come with PASS machine, but really not a whole lot of questions during this time period.
I felt really confident going into the exam. Felt terrible after the exam and was wishing I had decided to do a different q bank, because I essentially repeated the Q banks I had already done. I think looking back I prob would have done the med study questions instead of repeating any MKSAP questions, but in the end it does not matter because I passed!
My first 2 years of residency, my ITE scores sucked (in the teens). In between 1st and 2nd year's ITEs I pseudo studied by reading MKSAP and doing MKSAP questions, and my ITE scores did not change. After the 2nd year's score remained the same, that was a reality check (and with some pushing from the department), I really dedicated myself to studying because I did not want to "fail" my 3rd ITE because I would really not feel good about going into boards then.
So, in the spring of my 2nd year, I got PASS machine videos, and went through at that time the 2013 videos as the 2014 IMX ones had not been done yet. Did 2013 that year, and then waited til this past spring to do 2014 (there may have been some more uptodate info in 2015 this year but I did not seem to miss it).
I also got MKSAP online and did MKSAP questions again, and read a lot of board basics. I did not read MKSAP books this time.
I instead read through Med study books and Med Study flash cards.
My process would be, read the medstudy book associated with the topic, watch and take notes of pass machine videos, do the flash cards and read board basics then finally do medstudy questions. I did this to go through every major subject over the 6-7 months from the spring to ITE in September.
About a month prior to ITE I got Know-medge Qbank. I wanted to pay for a years worth so didn't want to get it before August so I could have it up until boards. I really loved their Qbank.
I took ITE September last year and got 92nd percentile, so I felt like my system was working.
I took some time off from dedicated studying. Then late spring started back with re-reading board basics, watching the 2014 IMX pass machine videos and taking notes and going through know-medge bank again.
I also got married before the end of Residency and went on a 3 week honeymoon for a good chunk of July..
Prior to honeymoon I got through most of Know-medge questions again. I would save the pdf of each question, and then put PDFs of each subject together and flip through them like flash cards.
I also finished Pass machine prior to honeymoon.
I essentially did no studying during honeymoon (I half heartedly read through some board basics sections towards the tail end, but I really don't count that)
So after I got back I had about 3.5 weeks til the exam- I went through all my pass machine notes, did my know-medge pdf question flash cards multiple times, did medstudy flash cards, read through board basics multiple times and also got the know-medge flash cards and went through all those as well. I did some MKSAP questions and the tests that come with PASS machine, but really not a whole lot of questions during this time period.
I felt really confident going into the exam. Felt terrible after the exam and was wishing I had decided to do a different q bank, because I essentially repeated the Q banks I had already done. I think looking back I prob would have done the med study questions instead of repeating any MKSAP questions, but in the end it does not matter because I passed!
- Joined
- Oct 16, 2007
- Messages
- 112
- Reaction score
- 46
I have to respectfully disagree. I felt extra hours on the floors during residency, electives, managing patients day in day out made me more ill equipped to passing this exam. That is why my ITE was so terrible. I feel what you see on every day only covers about 25% of what is on ABIM. The rest, you have to read on your own.
I felt I would have easily passed this exam (and probably done better), if I was given a dedicated 6 wks of study time, BEFORE residency. I know colleagues who have worked extra hours for moonlighting, and makes more money during residency, but failed the boards. I know residents who spend more time studying, and less time in clinical do better on ITE. Spending extra time doing outpatient clinic, dealing with patients with uncontrolled DM (not compliant), non compliant hypertension, random headaches, foot aches, sore backs..etc, will not make you better prepared for this exam. Nor will managing pneumonia day in, day out, stroke, foot infection, uncontrolled DM, social issues on the general floors. As we all can attest, after a while, medicine becomes reflexive without much thinking, and the exam doesn't test mostly what we see on our every day to day service, but more less encountered experience, which IMO is best learned by just studying from the book.
You make a very good point about doing simulated tests. It made a big difference for me the last time I took the test as well. I found practicing keeping focus during the entire time and all the way through the end was huge help for me this time around.
I completely agree with what you said about not using multiple resources. I think once people find one source of reading material and one source of questions that they like they should stick to it and focus on that. Jumping from one source to another just confuses things and makes it difficult to master the material.
- Joined
- Mar 24, 2014
- Messages
- 14
- Reaction score
- 1
Passed
Score 657
Went to what is probably considered a bottom 1/3 american MD medical school on this forum
Went to a good residency but probably not considered to top 25 residency by this forum
intraining scores were good don't remember them intern year I was 92 percentile then I think everyone else caught up because my score was the same but percentile kept dropping
Ended residency on a difficult rotation (ED, lots of flipping between days and nights) and started fellowship in the MICU where you are on home call most nights a week, weekends off. didn't really study much that month. Did some light outpatient stuff for the 2 weeks before which gave me time to study.
Did MKSAP (questions only no books) starting at the beginning of R3 year then did it again over the 2 months before the test
Stuff I was weak in on MKSAP I skimmed the med study books (Rheumatology, Neuro, Heme)
Got board basics which I read through over the last week before the test (lots of good facts in here that were not on MKSAP but popped up in the acutal test)
test day felt not great maybe 1/3 of the questions I was unsure of myself but I felt like I at least passed.
Score 657
Went to what is probably considered a bottom 1/3 american MD medical school on this forum
Went to a good residency but probably not considered to top 25 residency by this forum
intraining scores were good don't remember them intern year I was 92 percentile then I think everyone else caught up because my score was the same but percentile kept dropping
Ended residency on a difficult rotation (ED, lots of flipping between days and nights) and started fellowship in the MICU where you are on home call most nights a week, weekends off. didn't really study much that month. Did some light outpatient stuff for the 2 weeks before which gave me time to study.
Did MKSAP (questions only no books) starting at the beginning of R3 year then did it again over the 2 months before the test
Stuff I was weak in on MKSAP I skimmed the med study books (Rheumatology, Neuro, Heme)
Got board basics which I read through over the last week before the test (lots of good facts in here that were not on MKSAP but popped up in the acutal test)
test day felt not great maybe 1/3 of the questions I was unsure of myself but I felt like I at least passed.
2
205321
I've followed this forum for years - time for my ABIM feedback.
Background:
-Struggled with MCAT / Step 1/2/3 (aka, had to study triple as much as my colleagues to garner an average score)
-Went to a top 20 med school & top academic med-peds program
-Excelled clinically, but, absolutely failed the in-service exams each year (not even close)
-Passed ABIM on first try (barely)
Resources bought (and wasted):
UWorld - never used
Knowmedge - never used
MS Flash cards - never used
Med Study Qbank - never used
NEJM QBank - never used
--- I think you get the point
What I did:
-Did about 80% of MKSAP (most of it in 2 weeks prior to test)
-Read the BB3 thoroughly for Cards, GI, Pulm
-Studied on and off for about 3 months
-Worked very very hard in residency when on the wards / in clinic - but didn't bring work home.
Test day:
-I really, really went with my intuition - for each question.
-questions I didn't know the answer to - I just picked what I thought they would like me to know
Good luck to all!
Background:
-Struggled with MCAT / Step 1/2/3 (aka, had to study triple as much as my colleagues to garner an average score)
-Went to a top 20 med school & top academic med-peds program
-Excelled clinically, but, absolutely failed the in-service exams each year (not even close)
-Passed ABIM on first try (barely)
Resources bought (and wasted):
UWorld - never used
Knowmedge - never used
MS Flash cards - never used
Med Study Qbank - never used
NEJM QBank - never used
--- I think you get the point
What I did:
-Did about 80% of MKSAP (most of it in 2 weeks prior to test)
-Read the BB3 thoroughly for Cards, GI, Pulm
-Studied on and off for about 3 months
-Worked very very hard in residency when on the wards / in clinic - but didn't bring work home.
Test day:
-I really, really went with my intuition - for each question.
-questions I didn't know the answer to - I just picked what I thought they would like me to know
Good luck to all!
- Joined
- Apr 5, 2006
- Messages
- 725
- Reaction score
- 50
I passed but by no means crushed it. I did mksap questions twice and read boards basic once. I heard from a couple of friends who did extremely well that they thought UWorld was excellent prep. Thought I wouldn't hear that again after USMLE but I may stand corrected. Oh well--- good to be past this test!
For those who DID NOT PASS, here is my advice:
Three key Elements to passing the board:
1) adequate time preparation. Studies have shown people who prepare for 6 months are more likely to pass than people who study 3 months You need to carve out blocks of time during the week and stick to that time religiously. During that time, you do lots and lots of multiple choice questions.
2) Exam content. After the exam, I realized almost all the content was in the Boards Basics book published by ACP. But, it wasn't the text that was highlighted or in a table. It was unhighlighted normal text that most people would skip over. MKSAP by itself was not enough for me because I needed the core concept repeated and I found myself memorizing the question and not the concept. I stuck with Medstudy and it was very helpful. I would only do a review course 4-6 months before as a way to motivate yourself. You can't learn all of internal medicine in one months time.
3) Self-confidence. This is the hardest part. I felt beaten after each exam, even the one I passed. But, you have to put yourself in the mindset that the right answer is there and you can distinguish it from the rest. The exam does NOT define your worth or value as a physician. You need to have enough self confidence to realize they are trying to trick you and you are way smarter than that.
I'm selling all my study materials: board basics 3, medstudy flashcards, medstudy core curriculum books, Awesome review series books, Medstudy video syllabus. They are in great condition. You can either email me directly or look at my post in the sales/classified section of this forum.
Feel free to message me directly with questions.
Three key Elements to passing the board:
1) adequate time preparation. Studies have shown people who prepare for 6 months are more likely to pass than people who study 3 months You need to carve out blocks of time during the week and stick to that time religiously. During that time, you do lots and lots of multiple choice questions.
2) Exam content. After the exam, I realized almost all the content was in the Boards Basics book published by ACP. But, it wasn't the text that was highlighted or in a table. It was unhighlighted normal text that most people would skip over. MKSAP by itself was not enough for me because I needed the core concept repeated and I found myself memorizing the question and not the concept. I stuck with Medstudy and it was very helpful. I would only do a review course 4-6 months before as a way to motivate yourself. You can't learn all of internal medicine in one months time.
3) Self-confidence. This is the hardest part. I felt beaten after each exam, even the one I passed. But, you have to put yourself in the mindset that the right answer is there and you can distinguish it from the rest. The exam does NOT define your worth or value as a physician. You need to have enough self confidence to realize they are trying to trick you and you are way smarter than that.
I'm selling all my study materials: board basics 3, medstudy flashcards, medstudy core curriculum books, Awesome review series books, Medstudy video syllabus. They are in great condition. You can either email me directly or look at my post in the sales/classified section of this forum.
Feel free to message me directly with questions.
Passed with 640. Did only MKSAP questions and UW questions without reading any material. I bought the MKSAP BB but didnt really go through all of it.
My performance was similar to Step 3. I say if your step 2 and step 3 scores are good, you shouldnt worry about it.
My performance was similar to Step 3. I say if your step 2 and step 3 scores are good, you shouldnt worry about it.
- Joined
- Oct 16, 2014
- Messages
- 3
- Reaction score
- 1
Selling Medstudy 16 books and flash cards and mksap15 questions and board basics books for less. Pm me if interested
Passed that behemoth of an exam. Walked out of it just shaking my head, as it felt like a freight train had hit me.
Inservice: 50th percentile first year, 80th percentile second year, did terrible third year (15-20th percentile).
After my in-service third year tried to kick my studying into gear. Was able to finish all the MKSAP 16 questions by end of residency. Did maybe half of the MedStudy videos, was only able to read couple sections of MedStudy books. Then tried my best to do a second review of Mksap q's all through july. Was very hard to study as I had just started pulm&cc fellowship and moved to a new state. Luckily my fellowship program let me have a week off before boards. During which time I spent time finishing Board Basics (very good book and helps absorb last minute details). Did not use any other question bank.
Although Mksap 16 q's were not similar to actual test questions, it did help me do a thorough review and just having a good knowledge background helped with the test. I think just try to get a good knowledge base down, think through the questions, and pick the best answer based on your gut. Also start early in third year with the studying!
Seems like 89% of first-time takers passed. So the exam is doable. As for anybody that did not pass this time around, just keep your head up and study harder for next time.
Inservice: 50th percentile first year, 80th percentile second year, did terrible third year (15-20th percentile).
After my in-service third year tried to kick my studying into gear. Was able to finish all the MKSAP 16 questions by end of residency. Did maybe half of the MedStudy videos, was only able to read couple sections of MedStudy books. Then tried my best to do a second review of Mksap q's all through july. Was very hard to study as I had just started pulm&cc fellowship and moved to a new state. Luckily my fellowship program let me have a week off before boards. During which time I spent time finishing Board Basics (very good book and helps absorb last minute details). Did not use any other question bank.
Although Mksap 16 q's were not similar to actual test questions, it did help me do a thorough review and just having a good knowledge background helped with the test. I think just try to get a good knowledge base down, think through the questions, and pick the best answer based on your gut. Also start early in third year with the studying!
Seems like 89% of first-time takers passed. So the exam is doable. As for anybody that did not pass this time around, just keep your head up and study harder for next time.
- Joined
- Oct 8, 2015
- Messages
- 3
- Reaction score
- 0
I passed this year on my second attempt. Throughout residency has very poor in service scores (in the teens). Prior to my first attempt i did MKSAP 2X and attended Dr.Rhamans course (3/4 of classes after work) and only re-read his notes once. I just started cardiology fellowship and didnt have much time in July/August to study. I scored an abyssmal 317. After not passing I took Dr. Rhaman's course again but this time took the two weekend schedule. I read his notes 3-4 times and did mksap X2. I also read board basics once. I passed this time with a 430. My advice for those who are taking the test or need to retake the test
1) Take the test seriously and give it the respect it deserves. This is much harder than step 2 or 3 for which just studying a question bank almost guarantees passing. You should start preparing as early as you can (probaly around January) and then try to set up a few weeks of vacation and/or light elective close to the test in the summer during which you can spend 5-6 hours a day studying. If you are starting a job maybe start it in september. You don't want to shell out 1300 dollars twice.
2) Anybody who says MKSAP is enough likely is super smart and didnt need to study much to begin with to pass. Don't listen to these people. These are the same people who crushed their steps with less than maximum effort. You need multiple resources which include MKSAP, board basics and something else (MEDStudy, awesome review, etc). If you study too much and do really well then you are probaly a better doctor moving foward anyways.
3) I think that Awesome review is a great course. The best way to do the course is either the week long version or the weekends. Probaly a bad idea to do it after work from 5:30-11:00 as you need to be super focused to really get the most out of the course. If you can it is probaly a good idea to review the notes with a study partner.
4) It is a long exam so figure out a way to build up mental stamina. You will be mentally fatigued by the third section.
5) If you did not pass on the first attempt don't freak out . With alot of hard work you can definitely pass it. I retook the exam after a year of cardiology fellowship during which i didn't have the optimal time to study. I think that MKSAP, Dr Rhaman's course, and board basics is more than enough to pass. Med Study may be good but i have no experience with it.
6) Once you decide on a strategy don't add a another element a week before the exam. For example don't decide to buy USMLE world a week before the exam.
7) If you were able to make this far in your career you can pass this exam!
1) Take the test seriously and give it the respect it deserves. This is much harder than step 2 or 3 for which just studying a question bank almost guarantees passing. You should start preparing as early as you can (probaly around January) and then try to set up a few weeks of vacation and/or light elective close to the test in the summer during which you can spend 5-6 hours a day studying. If you are starting a job maybe start it in september. You don't want to shell out 1300 dollars twice.
2) Anybody who says MKSAP is enough likely is super smart and didnt need to study much to begin with to pass. Don't listen to these people. These are the same people who crushed their steps with less than maximum effort. You need multiple resources which include MKSAP, board basics and something else (MEDStudy, awesome review, etc). If you study too much and do really well then you are probaly a better doctor moving foward anyways.
3) I think that Awesome review is a great course. The best way to do the course is either the week long version or the weekends. Probaly a bad idea to do it after work from 5:30-11:00 as you need to be super focused to really get the most out of the course. If you can it is probaly a good idea to review the notes with a study partner.
4) It is a long exam so figure out a way to build up mental stamina. You will be mentally fatigued by the third section.
5) If you did not pass on the first attempt don't freak out . With alot of hard work you can definitely pass it. I retook the exam after a year of cardiology fellowship during which i didn't have the optimal time to study. I think that MKSAP, Dr Rhaman's course, and board basics is more than enough to pass. Med Study may be good but i have no experience with it.
6) Once you decide on a strategy don't add a another element a week before the exam. For example don't decide to buy USMLE world a week before the exam.
7) If you were able to make this far in your career you can pass this exam!
- Joined
- Jan 28, 2014
- Messages
- 25
- Reaction score
- 1
Woohoo! I passed. Now, its giving back time to the forum.
Very well put byCardiodave85 -'Anybody who says MKSAP is enough likely is super smart and didnt need to study much to begin with to pass. Don't listen to these people. These are the same people who crushed their steps with less than maximum effort. You need multiple resources which include MKSAP, board basics and something else (MEDStudy, awesome review, etc)'
I did not feel MKSAP was enough by any means. I passed too by a comfortable margin. Got into a busy fellowship and did not have much time in July and August to study much. My ITE score were in 45th percentile for my final year and pretty much was spot on in my main exam too. I really felt that a lot of my friends who had struggled in ITE's had studied well in the few months before exams and had got good scores. I felt Awesome review and USMLE world were high yield. Its a very doable exam if one knows how to game it.
At the end of the day, this exam does not determine whether you are a smart physician or not; it tells you whether you were able to game the exam with required prep or not. After passing, I can attest to the fact that it has not made me any better physician. Sure, it did fill up the pockets of an administrator.
Very well put byCardiodave85 -'Anybody who says MKSAP is enough likely is super smart and didnt need to study much to begin with to pass. Don't listen to these people. These are the same people who crushed their steps with less than maximum effort. You need multiple resources which include MKSAP, board basics and something else (MEDStudy, awesome review, etc)'
I did not feel MKSAP was enough by any means. I passed too by a comfortable margin. Got into a busy fellowship and did not have much time in July and August to study much. My ITE score were in 45th percentile for my final year and pretty much was spot on in my main exam too. I really felt that a lot of my friends who had struggled in ITE's had studied well in the few months before exams and had got good scores. I felt Awesome review and USMLE world were high yield. Its a very doable exam if one knows how to game it.
At the end of the day, this exam does not determine whether you are a smart physician or not; it tells you whether you were able to game the exam with required prep or not. After passing, I can attest to the fact that it has not made me any better physician. Sure, it did fill up the pockets of an administrator.
- Joined
- Oct 11, 2015
- Messages
- 1
- Reaction score
- 0
I had a colleague get a 369 out of a passing 370, which just seems cruel.
Is there anything that can be done here? Appeal/Re-score ever change an outcome?
Is there anything that can be done here? Appeal/Re-score ever change an outcome?
- Joined
- Mar 6, 2005
- Messages
- 21,374
- Reaction score
- 17,896
Your "colleague" should probably request a re-score. Unlikely to make a difference but for that 1 point, it's totally worth it.
Long time follower of SDN, but don't usually post on here. Felt compelled to post this time as there seems to be overwhelming majority on here that states that people need multiple sources to pass the ABIM board exam, which is absolutely not true.
I agree with some posters on here that if you work hard during your residency, you should have no difficulty passing this exam. I started a busy fellowship and only did MKSAP 16 once and passed with a large margin. I admit that there are content areas on the exam that residents might not have encountered during their training, but the point of residency is not only to learn the basics, but also to learn the art of medicine and develop critical thinking skills. Thus, if you worked hard during residency, most of the times you are able to derive on the right answer based on pre-test probabilities of the clinical scenario. MKSAP 16 otherwise is plenty to supplement the rest of the basic knowledge.
If you pick one source to supplement your training, that is what I would recommend. As most would agree, use one and know it inside out compared to use multiple and only know portions of each (while stressing out how to manage your time and fitting in 5 resources).
I agree with some posters on here that if you work hard during your residency, you should have no difficulty passing this exam. I started a busy fellowship and only did MKSAP 16 once and passed with a large margin. I admit that there are content areas on the exam that residents might not have encountered during their training, but the point of residency is not only to learn the basics, but also to learn the art of medicine and develop critical thinking skills. Thus, if you worked hard during residency, most of the times you are able to derive on the right answer based on pre-test probabilities of the clinical scenario. MKSAP 16 otherwise is plenty to supplement the rest of the basic knowledge.
If you pick one source to supplement your training, that is what I would recommend. As most would agree, use one and know it inside out compared to use multiple and only know portions of each (while stressing out how to manage your time and fitting in 5 resources).
- Joined
- Oct 16, 2007
- Messages
- 112
- Reaction score
- 46
I think YOU should request for a rescore.
D
deleted272130
Anyone have any way to know how many points 1 question equals? I didn't score too high above the pass rate, I'm just curious around how many questions that'd be. Probably tricky b/c their own website says different versions of the scores are harder/easier and they score appropriately. Don't care too much, BECAUSE I PASSED though!!
- Joined
- Jul 15, 2010
- Messages
- 20
- Reaction score
- 0
To people posting methods/studying - I know when I look through these topics as a lurker, knowing how you performed on other things (ITE, even steps) and the actual score of the test (here the ABIM) would help a lot - as people have pointed out everyone is different both in baseline knowledge, test taking abilities, life responsibilities, etc. So not only is studying important but maybe more vital than studying is being able to appropriately triage how much you need to study so you can give the appropriate amount of times/resources to the exam.
You're approach to this topic would be (and should be) totally different if you're one of these two people:
1. 190 Step 1, 210 Step 2, 220 Step 3, PGY 1 ITE 15th percentil, PGY 2 ITE 30th percentile, PGY 3 ITE 25th percentile --> probably needs to start early, do longitudinal studying just to improve overall knowledge base, and then do more test specific reviews like a board study course.
2. 270 Step 1, 288 Step 2, TOO HIGH TO REPORT Step 3, PGY 1 ITE 71st percentile, PGY 2 ITE 92nd percentile, PGY 3 ITE co-authored the ABIM for you all. --> probably could have taken the ABIM as their PGY-3 ITE and passed if not excelled on the test.
I realize that many of you did offer some amounts of data but in varying degrees - but there is an opportunity here to get a decent data set that has some bias for sure (we'll have a lot of the top 1% and more of the lower portions who are truly worried for failing) but could be more helpful to those having to take ABIM next year...
maybe something like this?
ABIM Stat - PASS first attempt 589
ITE Percentile by year - PGY 1: 50th, PGY 2: 77th, PGY 3: 90th
USMLE Scores (1/2/3): 235/251/240
followed by how you studied. The whole "I went to this strength residency program" or "this rank medical school" is pretty subjective and probably doesn't correlate as well as your step scores.
That being said, those are my stats and my study technique was MKSAP qbank each subject individually followed by UWorld random subjects, block sizes 10-40, tutor mode x1 then again same system with the ones I got wrong. The only book I used was board basics and I used that basically as my 'traveling' book - if I was taking a flight/train or needed something to pass some time while I wasn't doing something else, board basic was like my go to read. I didn't even get through it once. No review courses.
Just an idea (and not one that I'm going to have the follow through on to make organized like all those saints in the fellowship forums who track the interview lists) as we all try to pay it forward.
You're approach to this topic would be (and should be) totally different if you're one of these two people:
1. 190 Step 1, 210 Step 2, 220 Step 3, PGY 1 ITE 15th percentil, PGY 2 ITE 30th percentile, PGY 3 ITE 25th percentile --> probably needs to start early, do longitudinal studying just to improve overall knowledge base, and then do more test specific reviews like a board study course.
2. 270 Step 1, 288 Step 2, TOO HIGH TO REPORT Step 3, PGY 1 ITE 71st percentile, PGY 2 ITE 92nd percentile, PGY 3 ITE co-authored the ABIM for you all. --> probably could have taken the ABIM as their PGY-3 ITE and passed if not excelled on the test.
I realize that many of you did offer some amounts of data but in varying degrees - but there is an opportunity here to get a decent data set that has some bias for sure (we'll have a lot of the top 1% and more of the lower portions who are truly worried for failing) but could be more helpful to those having to take ABIM next year...
maybe something like this?
ABIM Stat - PASS first attempt 589
ITE Percentile by year - PGY 1: 50th, PGY 2: 77th, PGY 3: 90th
USMLE Scores (1/2/3): 235/251/240
followed by how you studied. The whole "I went to this strength residency program" or "this rank medical school" is pretty subjective and probably doesn't correlate as well as your step scores.
That being said, those are my stats and my study technique was MKSAP qbank each subject individually followed by UWorld random subjects, block sizes 10-40, tutor mode x1 then again same system with the ones I got wrong. The only book I used was board basics and I used that basically as my 'traveling' book - if I was taking a flight/train or needed something to pass some time while I wasn't doing something else, board basic was like my go to read. I didn't even get through it once. No review courses.
Just an idea (and not one that I'm going to have the follow through on to make organized like all those saints in the fellowship forums who track the interview lists) as we all try to pay it forward.
- Joined
- Mar 6, 2005
- Messages
- 21,374
- Reaction score
- 17,896
I would refer you to this remarkably insightful post on the topic.
Last edited:
