This blog was originally posted on November 22, 2022, and updated by Dr. Ria Patel in November 2024.   The USMLE Step 2 CK is a challenging exam that tests a wide range of clinical knowledge and skills across multiple subjects. Understanding the Step 2 CK breakdown by subject is...

A stellar MCAT score can be achieved through an infinite combination of study methods and resources. But most successful MCAT study schedules do have one thing in common. Whether you structure your studying to include printed books, online videos, or pre-made flashcard decks, one element of preparation is necessary for...

Unlike other standardized tests, it can be difficult to find comprehensive resources for ABSITE studying. Surgery requires a lot of knowledge, and doing only one question bank may limit you when it comes to scoring a higher percentile. Unfortunately, none of the resources for ABSITE are fully comprehensive. So it...

As you prepare for the American Board of Surgery In-Training Exam (ABSITE), it's important to have access to the best ABSITE resources. Unlike other standardized tests, it can be difficult to find comprehensive resources for ABSITE studying, and more difficult to determine which are the most effective. Surgery requires a...

Your dedicated Step 2 CK study time is approaching, and you need an effective study plan to keep yourself on track. It can be difficult to adjust to a premade schedule, especially when it does not account for your weaker subjects or the amount of study time that you have...

Despite months of studying, the day of the MCAT may not go as planned and leave pre-medical students considering whether a retake is necessary. Though the AAMC allows taking the MCAT up to three times per year, it is best practice to minimize the number of times this exam is...

Surgery is a challenging but rewarding specialty and you should expect your clerkship to be the same. Surgery is also unlike other specialties you will rotate through and if you want to receive honors, you will need to take a different approach than you did for other clerkships. You will...

After ERAS submission, it is time to prepare for residency interviews. If it has been 4-6 weeks after application submission and you have not heard back from your top programs, you should consider contacting them for an interview. Crafting a professional residency thank-you email to ask a residency program for...

After endless weeks of studying, the day to take your Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is in sight. This can feel like the most important test of your life up to this point, especially if you have been dreaming of becoming a doctor for a while. There is no more...

Perhaps the most exciting and nerve-wracking time in medical school is the MATCH. After years of hard work and sacrifice, the time has finally come to go through the application and interview process all over again, just as for medical school. However, this time is much more exciting. This time,...