Step 2 before Step 1 - requesting advice on study approach

[coagulationfactor]

Context: US IMG aiming only for EM.
School doesn't follow the US system
Resources: Anking deck, Boards & Beyond videos, AMBOSS and UW qbanks, CMS forms, NBMEs

If you had from now until August 2025 to prepare for Step2 without having taken Step 1 yet, and felt rather weak in certain step1 topics like Neuro, Hemato, Microbio, Musculoskeletal, Immuno, Biochem, would it be better take some time with step1 material of the above mentioned resources to learn those weak topics? Or would it be best to start using step2 resources despite having some step 1 knowledge gaps ?

Thanks!

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[Ddubz]

Hey there! Congrats on making it this far! I am in a similar phase of education as you (3rd year DO with only Level 1 taken).

I'll share my study approach with you. Just remember it may not be what works best for you and you'll have to consider alternative variations if others post.

Uworld and Anking deck sub from ankihub are primary resources.
Uworld questions to learn and identify weak points. Anki to recall weak points and as an exposure to potential material. I only do new cards from the step 2 NBME and UWSA tags. Make my own cards when a particular question doesn't have cards or none of them match the reason for why I missed the question.

Beyond that I plan to do as many NBME forms and other school required prep (more practice questions and COMSAE's)

Hope this helps and good luck.

 

[Bestaidreviews]

Hey there! Great question—you’re thinking ahead, and that’s always a smart approach! Since you have until August 2025, you have a great opportunity to strengthen your foundation while diving into Step 2 CK material. Here’s my recommendation:

- Spend about two months reviewing the Step 1 topics you feel weakest in. Use a high-quality question bank like UWorld and focus on those specific subjects. Make sure to read the explanations thoroughly—it might feel slow at first, but your pace will improve quickly.
- After these two months, transition to Step 2 CK questions. Focus on truly understanding every question and its explanation. If anything is unclear, don’t hesitate to ask experts here on this platform or in other study groups.
- Take NBME self-assessments at key points in your prep. Take one at the beginning to establish a baseline, another midway to track progress, and the rest as you approach your exam date.
This approach allows you to reinforce foundational knowledge while ensuring you’re ready for Step 2 CK’s clinical focus. Best of luck with your studies! Let me know if you need any additional guidance.