Unfortunately, there are calculations on the test.  The only equations that you need to know, though, are in First Aid.  If you don't see it there, it is low yield.  I actually got one of my questions wrong because I didn't take the time to memorize those equations.

will we be asked to do any "calculations" that would require us to memorize formulas, for example, the nernst equation or osmotic pressure?  thanks!

i've just started reviewing phys and was wondering whether we'll be allowed scratch paper during the exam.  Thanks!

A 36-year-old woman complains of excessive menstrual bleeding and easy bruising. Physical examination reveals multiple petechiae on mucous membranes and purpuric lesions on the shins. A complete blood count is remarkable for thrombocytopenia. The woman is diagnosed with immune thrombocytopenic purpura, and eventually requires splenectomy. Her platelet count initially improves, but over the course of months, her thrombocytopenia recurs. Which of the following would most likely account for this finding?

A. Accessory spleen

B. Bone marrow failure

C. Phagocytosis by Kupffer cells

D. Phagocytosis by lymph node macrophages

E. Thymic enlargement

Hello there!

The first thing you need to do is get the necessary review books.  After you feel somewhat comfortable with the books, I'd recommend doing questions.  Both questions and review books are necessary.

As far as review books, the must have is First Aid for Step 1.  You should read that book cover to cover and know everything in it.  At the end of First Aid is a section that grades the usefulness of all the other books out there for every subject.  I found this to be very helpful.  If you need more help on a particular subject, use that section of First Aid to find a suitable additional book.  Other books that you might need are BRS physiology and BRS pathology.

As far as questions, most people tend to use Kaplan's QBank for Step 1.  Other sources are USMLE Review, which has a CD with around 1000 q's on it or Appleton and Lange, which is also very nice.

Unfortunately, there is no magic pill for doing well on the USMLE.  It really requires a ton of work and studying.  You should realize that more books does not mean a higher score.  If most people knew all the information in First Aid alone, I think they would at least hit average on the USMLE. 

Hopefully this helps.  Good luck!

Hi, i am going to start to prepare for the step 1, can some one give me advise on how to prepare for it, which books to buy, and a general plan to prep 4 it. Thanks, i will greatly appreciate any advise.

A Locum Tenens job is another option if you can't find a job out of IM residency.  That's the great thing about being a doctor - you'll never be jobless (just sleep deprived)...

The rules are that you cannot take anything into the exam except your ID and single locker key.  This includes pencils, paper, etc.  They are pretty anal about it, so considering they provide you a noise reducing headset, I'm almost positive you would not be allowed to bring your own headset or ear plugs.

The prometric centers that I've been to have generally been pretty quiet, though.  I haven't heard too many horror stories about noise and such.

The prometric centers are required to provide headsets for all exam takers should they be requested.  I'm pretty sure they will not allow you to take your own electronic noise cancelling headsets in as people could conceivably use them for devious purposes. 

The set that they provide are huge!  They are the big orange ones that you see airline workers use on the tarmac.  I imagine they would work pretty well, though.

hi,

does anyone know whether we can take ear plugs or noise reducing headphones into the exam?  thanks!

-p