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The USMLE Step 1 exam is a multiple-choice examination designed to assess the examinee's knowledge of the basic sciences relevant to medical practice. The content of the examination is organized according to an integrated content outline that focuses on concepts and principles that are important across organ systems and within individual organ systems.

Step 1 is also designed to measure the application of basic science principles to clinical situations, and includes items that require the examinee to interpret graphic and tabular material, identify gross and microscopic pathologic and normal specimens, and solve problems. A tutorial is provided at the beginning of the exam to help the examinee become familiar with the test software.

The Step 1 interactive testing experience also includes items with associated audio findings, so it is important for the examinee to become familiar with how these types of items function before their test day.

USMLE Step 1 content outline

The Format of Questions on USMLE Step 1

The USMLE Step 1 is an exam that usually demands multiple steps of reasoning/knowledge in each question. The test questions will frequently necessitate that you do one or more of the following tasks:

Graphic and tabular material can be interpreted in different

Differentiate between gross and microscopic pathologic and normal specimens.

Use scientific knowledge to solve clinical problems.

Step 1 content breakdown: Content Covered

Systems Covered:

The test covers 25-35% General Principles

65-75% Individual Organ Systems such as hematopoietic/lymphoreticular, nervous/special senses, skin/connective tissue, musculoskeletal, respiratory, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, renal/urinary, reproductive, endocrine and immune systems.

Processes Covered:

The test also covers 20-30% Normal Structure and function

40-50% Abnormal processes

15-25% Principles of therapeutics

10-20% Psychosocial, cultural, occupational, and environmental considerations.

How Long is the USMLE Step 1?

USMLE Step 1 consists of up to 280 multiple-choice test questions that are divided into seven 60-minute blocks over an 8 hour day.

Location of USMLE Step 1:

USMLE Step 1 is a computer-based test that is administered by Prometric Services.

How Long Does It Take to Get Your Step 1 Score Back?

The typical score reporting time for the USMLE Step 1 exam is 4 weeks.

Applying to Take Step 1

There are two pathways to apply for the USMLE Step 1 exam, depending on if you are a U.S. or Canadian student or not.

Check out the USMLE Application Page to get started.

Preparing for the USMLE Step 1 Exam: The Importance of Qbanks

Step 1 Test Prep: The Importance of Qbanks:

1. The USMLE Step 1 is taken at the end of the second year of medical school and is used to assess your understanding and ability to apply the important core concepts of the sciences learned in medical school years 1 and 2.

2. The test questions in Step 1 will often require you to interpret graphic and tabular material, identify gross and microscopic pathologic and normal specimens, and apply basic science knowledge to clinical problems.

3. Beyond the obvious expert knowledge that you will have from the first two years of medical school, question banks (Qbanks) are the key to rocking Step 1. The majority of medical students use some sort of Qbank for their Step 1 test preparation.

4. A few popular test prep companies include: USMLEWorld, Kaplan, and Falcon. The Board Rounds podcast is also an excellent resource.

Step 1 test day schedule

Candidates are encouraged to show up to the testing center at least 30 minutes before the scheduled test time to allow for registration and check. During the exam, it is important to stay focused and take breaks when you need to. After the exam, your score will be released 4 weeks later.

USMLE Step 1 is an important milestone in your medical school journey and should be taken seriously.

A Podcast to Help You Prepare for Your Boards

The Board Rounds podcast is an invaluable resource for medical students preparing for the USMLE Step 1 exam. The podcast provides helpful information and practice on a range of topics related to the exam, including anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pharmacology, pathology, microbiology, behavioral sciences, and interdisciplinary topics.

The podcast also includes tips on how to best use question banks to prepare for the exam and offers strategies on how to build good study habits from the very beginning of medical school. The podcast is a great way to stay up to date on the latest information about the USMLE Step 1 and ensure you are well-prepared for the exam.

The Right Way to Prepare for Step 1

Having a good mindset is essential for success in Step 1. Understand that Step 1 is one of the biggest factors in your residency application and build good study habits from day one.

Up-to-Date Information on Step 1

Make sure to always check the official USMLE website for up-to-date information about the exam.

Links and Other Resources for USMLE Step 1

The Board Rounds podcast offers a comprehensive overview of the USMLE Step 1 exam format and questions, which include single one best answer, sequential item sets and more.

step 1 content breakdown