When to take Step 3 and recommended books

[anna]

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Hi, Gang. I am going into PGY1 in June. I wanted to ask people when the best time to take Step 3 was and what books they recommend. Also, how does it differ from Step 2? If you do step 3 early in internship, can you get your DEA no. earlier?

thanks in advance.

Ana

 

[droliver]

personally I feel that several months into your intern year anybody should be able to pass step 3 without studying. The test is very medicine/Family practice oriented with almost no Surgery, OB, or superspecialty scenarios. If you paid attention during your med school you should be able to do fine (there is an exceedingly low fail rate by desighn for step 3)

 

[Winged Scapula]

Most people I've heard recommend Swanson's FP Review. I think it might be an NMS book. I got it for Step 2 but actually thought it too detailed for that and ended up returning it. Perhaps I'll pick it up for Step 3.

 

[tussy]

What is the format for step 3? Is it a written exam or clincial exam?

 

[CHM]

Is first aid for USMLE step 3 as helpful as for step 1 and 2?