Torn between what resources to use for Step 2 CK

[rodmichael82]

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Initially my plan was to use MTB2 and 3 with Uworld. Then a couple people said use First aid Step 2 CK instead.
Now some of the SDN gurus are saying that MTB and FA aren't good that should stick to just doing Uworld and NBME questions.
I'm not a super star. My step 1 score was close to 240. What resource should I use to get a 250+ on Step 2 CK? Would Uworld and practice NBMEs be enough in all honesty?

 

[orioles1]

I got a 254 on CK last year with only UWORLD and the occasional NBME practice exam. I think it can be done. Just make sure you pay attention to every detail in every question/explanation - this goes beyond the right answer. I essentially created my own textbook with UWORLD notes. Hope this helps.

 

[rodmichael82]

I got a 254 on CK last year with only UWORLD and the occasional NBME practice exam. I think it can be done. Just make sure you pay attention to every detail in every question/explanation - this goes beyond the right answer. I essentially created my own textbook with UWORLD notes. Hope this helps.

Do you mind sharing your step 1 score range and shelf exam ranges during 3rd year?
I only ask because I'm wondering if your test taking "skills" played a role in this?

 

[PeurtoRico]

Hi there. I just got 255 on the 2CK. I would suggest to do MTB2 and actually learn it. Most of UW questions can be solved by info in MTB in my opinion. So in my opinion: MTB + UW + NBMEs.

 

[PeurtoRico]

I did FA for medicine bit early on and did not think it was a great book for CK. I'd prefer MTB. I do agree that MTB has its limitations but it's the best review book available for 2 CK.

 

[rodmichael82]

I did FA for medicine bit early on and did not think it was a great book for CK. I'd prefer MTB. I do agree that MTB has its limitations but it's the best review book available for 2 CK.

Thank you!

 

[orioles1]

Got the same exact score on step 1. I am a DO student, but generally did well on the COMATs (loosely equivalent to the Shelf exams).

I can't hang my hat on my test taking abilities. I have relatively significant learning disabilities, primarily surrounding processing speed, and received extra time throughout high school and undergrad (including the SAT and MCAT). Because my evaluation was done in high school, and as a result was more than four years old at the start of medical school, it would have to be repeated in order for me to receive testing accommodations. I was a poor medical student, and could not fork over the money at that time. In a possibly foolish move, I decided to see if I could overcome these test taking difficulties. I like to think that I have done so.

I only state this because I believe most people can make up for whatever deficits they have with a mastery of the material. Everyone's situation is unique, and I cannot generalize, however many people nestle in the comfort of blaming test performance on abilities rather than knowledge.

My anecdote will ideally give you and the silent SDN readers some hope. Someone who scores near a 240 on step 1 can score a 250 on step 2 (so can someone who scored a 210). Have confidence in yourself and maintain a constant thirst for increasing your knowledge level.