ULTIMATE GUIDE

TO THE

USMLE STEP 1®
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW
 The Osmosis Ultimate Guide 
to USMLE® Step 1 
Version 1.1 

 
 

The United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE®) is a joint program of the Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB®) and 
National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME®). Osmosis is not affiliated with NBME nor FSMB. 
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The Osmosis Ultimate Guide  

to USMLE® Step 1 
Contents 

3 I​ ntroduction 
4 W
​ hat’s on the USMLE Step 1 exam? 
4 W
​ hat skills will the USMLE Step 1 exam test me on? 
4 W
​ hat topics are covered on USMLE Step 1? 
5 H
​ ow are different topics weighted on USMLE Step 1? 
6 U
​ SMLE Step 1 test scores & exam duration 
6 W
​ hat score do I need to pass Step 1? 
6 H
​ ow long is the USMLE Step 1 exam? 
7 W
​ hat’s the best way to study for USMLE Step 1? 
7 D
​ eveloping effective learning habits 
8 H
​ ow to pick a few good resources and stick to them 
10 ​Build a USMLE Step 1 Study Schedule on Osmosis 
10 ​Learn how to break down USMLE-style practice questions 
11 ​Make effective use of flashcards 
11 ​Practice multimedia learning 
12 T
​ he Osmosis Learning Loop 
13 ​Take practice exams 
14 ​Maintain healthy habits in the lead-up to the big day 
17 U
​ SMLE Step 1 exam logistics: What you need to know for the big day 
17 ​How do I apply to take USMLE Step 1 as a US Student? 
17 ​How do I apply to take USMLE Step 1 as an International Medical Student? 
17 ​Can I reschedule my USMLE Step 1 exam date if I need to? 
17 ​When should I take USMLE Step 1? 
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18 ​Where do I take USMLE Step 1? 

18 ​What can I expect on test day? 
19 ​What is the USMLE Step 1 exam room like? 
20 W
​ hat is the USMLE Step 1 test interface like? 
21 H
​ ow do breaks work during the USMLE Step 1 exam? 
21 W
​ hat should I bring with me to the Prometric test center? 
22 I​ have a disability. Can the Prometric test center accommodate my needs? 
22 W
​ hat should I expect after I take USMLE Step 1? 
22 W
​ hen will my USMLE Step 1 results arrive? 
23 W
​ hat USMLE Step 1 score do I need to match? 
24 W
​ hat happens if I fail USMLE Step 1? 
25 H
​ ow has COVID-19 impacted USMLE Step 1? 
26 H
​ ow can Osmosis help me study for USMLE Step 1? 
27 A
​ ce USMLE® Step 1 & beyond with Osmosis resources 
 
 
   
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Introduction 
No doubt that since you got into medical school, or even before you started medical school, you’ve 
heard how important the USMLE Step 1 Exam is. This is the first board exam you’ll be taking on 
your journey to becoming a full-fledged physician—and the stakes are high. 

Until recently, your score has a huge influence on what your residency, specialty, and overall career 
options could be in the future. In fact, 9
​ 4% of program directors stated that a candidate’s score​ on 
USMLE Step 1/COMLEX-USA® Level 1 was the most important factor when offering a prospective 
residency interview.  

With USMLE Step 1 moving to pass/fail in the next couple of years, less emphasis will be placed on 
this exam; instead, program directors will likely be more focused on things like your USMLE Step 2 
CK score and performance during your clerkships.  

Nevertheless, passing Step 1 is essential if you want to continue learning medicine, and for now, it 
remains the most high-pressure exam you’ll take on the road to residency. 

No big deal, right? 

Well, take it from us: you’re completely capable of passing this exam and getting a high score. You 
are a medical student: you’ve come this far and with the right plan you’ll make it all the way. 
Osmosis has your back! 

In this guide we’ll be covering everything (and we mean everything) about USMLE Step 1, including: 

● What’s covered on Step 1? 

 
● How should I study for Step 1? 
 
● How do I apply to take Step 1? 
 
● When and where should I take Step 1? 
 
● What Step 1 score do I need to match for residency? 
 
● What happens if I fail Step 1? 
 
● How has COVID-19 impacted Step 1? 
 
● How do students use Osmosis to study for Step 1? 

Now, without further ado, let’s get started with the most fundamental question to help you prepare 
for Step 1: W
​ hat’s on the USMLE Step 1 exam?
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What’s on the USMLE Step 1 exam? 

 
Step 1 is a multiple-choice computerized test that you’ll take at a designated exam center. The exam 
is divided into seven “blocks”, each containing up to 40 questions that will test your medical 
knowledge and your analytical skills.  

What skills will the Step 1 exam test me on? 

In general, USMLE Step 1 will require you to: 

● Utilize your understanding of basic scientific principles to solve clinical problems 

 
● Analyze and interpret data (graphs, tables, oscillation media, etc.) 
 
● Recognize both normal and pathological processes from gross and microscopic specimens. 

What topics are covered on Step 1? 

USMLE Step 1 covers a range of didactic topics, and evaluates you on a series of physician tasks 
and competencies as well: 
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How are different topics weighted on USMLE Step 1? 

Test items are divided into S

​ ystems​ and P
​ rocesses​ as follows: 

   
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USMLE Step 1 test scores & exam duration 

What score do I need to pass Step 1? 

Currently, ​USMLE Step 1 scores range from 1–300, and you need to score at least 194 to pass. 
However, this is set to change. On February 12, 2020, t​ he NRMP announced that scoring for 
USMLE Step 1 will be changed to pass/fail​. There is no deadline as of now, but these changes are a 
couple of years out at least, commencing no earlier than January, 2022.  

How long is the Step 1 exam? 

The whole Step 1 exam takes about 8 hours, broken down as follows: 

● Tutorial: 1
​ 5 minutes (optional—more on that later) 
 
● Breaks:​ 45 minutes 
 
● 7 Testing blocks:​ 60 minutes per block (~1.5 minutes per question) 

There are some nuances around breaks that we’ll cover in more detail in the Step 1 Logistics section 
later in this article. 

 
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What's the best way to study for USMLE Step 1? 

Now that you have a sense of what you’re going to be tested on, it’s time to come up with a 
strategy for how you’re going to learn all this information for the exam. 
 
Studying for Step 1 isn’t like studying for any other exam you’ve taken. You need to know two years’ 
worth of medical school information inside and out. Solidifying your knowledge of this gargantuan 
amount of complex information requires a game plan. 

1. Develop effective learning habits 

Learning is a science, and there are many proven techniques that will make your life a whole lot 
easier in the lead-up to Step 1. Osmosis Research Director ​Dr. Sean Tackett​ developed a full course 
on learning science. ​How to Learn in Medical School​ helps students become better learners using six 
proven learning science techniques: 

1. Testing effect 
 
2. Spaced repetition 
 
3. Interleaving 
 
4. Multimedia learning 
 
5. Elaborative interrogation 
 
6. Concrete examples 

A little note on Spaced Repetition 

Spaced repetition is a big part of why learning by Osmosis is so effective. But what is spaced 
repetition and how does it work? 

Spaced repetition is the act of retrieving knowledge at increasing intervals to reduce forgetting and 
enhance long-term learning. Essentially, you’re reviewing information repeatedly over time to burn it 
into your long-term memory. 

Timing this manually can be difficult, which is why technology-enhanced learning is so effective. 
The Osmosis platform uses a spaced repetition algorithm to test you on key information at optimal 
times to aid memory retrieval and help you build a knowledge foundation that will last for a lifetime. 

 
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2. How to pick a few good resources and stick to them 

There’s a glut of study resources out there for Step 1 and it can be tough to find the right fit. Some 
students will oversaturate themselves with resources—this trial and error process can mean a lot of 
wasted time early in the study period. So how do you choose? 

The UFAP study resources (UWorld®, First Aid®, Pathoma®) are great, but U ​ FAPO​—combining 
the resources with Osmosis—is even better. Think of Osmosis as your HQ and right-hand-person 
for this momentous challenge ahead of you. All of the UFAP resources can be integrated into the 
Osmosis Study Schedule for a completely seamless learning experience that covers all of your 
bases.  
 
With Osmosis, you’ll also have the additional support of our ​extensive video library​, which brings to 
life the topics covered in First Aid and UWorld’s question explanations—allowing you to have a 
better grasp of the material and be more confident on the day of your Step 1 exam. 

These videos cover important topics like basic sciences, biostatistics, epidemiology, pharmacology, 
microbiology, pathology, physiology, and more. Once you’ve watched the pathology videos, you can 
kick your studying into high gear with our new ​High Yield Pathology series,​ which has been 
specifically designed to highlight all of the important concepts needed for the USMLE Step 1.  
 
Additionally, Osmosis also has flashcards, questions, and H ​ igh-Yield Notes​ t​ hat can further assist 
you in your mastery of your preclinical knowledge. 

Every learner will take a different approach with regard to how they use these resources. In our next 
section, we’ll go over some general tips to steer you on the right path. 

 
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Start reviewing early 

The sooner you start studying for Step 1, the better. You should be regularly reviewing concepts 
you’ve already learned throughout the year to ingrain them into your long-term memory. This will 
save you time during your dedicated study period, as you’ll already be building on a strong base of 
knowledge. 

Some students like to start studying very early on, and take a practice exam before their dedicated 
study period begins. N
​ BME self-assessments​ will highlight your weak areas, giving you a better idea 
of where you should focus your studying.  

Go through each resource as many times as you need 

A quick Google search will reveal endless Step 1 prep strategies from students—you have to pick 
what’s right for you. A general rule for knowing if you’ve studied a topic enough is to try explaining 
the concepts to someone. If the information comes easily, you’ve learned it; if you find yourself 
struggling, you still have work to do.  

Focus on classical presentations of diseases 

When you’re studying pathology for the exam, focus specifically on the typical presentations of 
diseases, as the exam will only test you on these. If you try to think about all the possible ways a 
condition can manifest, you will end up overthinking things and potentially trip yourself up. 
Familiarize yourself with the basics and trust your gut. 

Stop studying when you feel you’re running out of steam 

If you’ve been studying for over 10 hours and feel like things just aren’t sticking anymore, chances 
are, they aren’t. You might have a classmate flexing about pulling regular all-night sessions, but you 
don’t know how much of that time is actually productive. 

Some students feel “guilty” taking study breaks. If it helps, consider breaking up your study periods 
with other “productive” activities, like exercise or meal prep. Whatever you do, step away from the 
books, and close your computer—you need this time to absorb the knowledge you’re trying to 
retain. It’s all part of the process! 

Don’t panic if you see a classmate using a resource you’re not using  

As we’ve mentioned already, everyone will take a slightly different approach to learning for Step 1. 
Find the resources that work for you, and stick with them.

 
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3. Build a USMLE Step 1 Study Schedule on Osmosis 

Once you’ve picked your study resources, you need to come up with a study plan. Taking an 
organized, methodical approach is absolutely essential for getting through all the material while 
retaining as much as possible. 

Fortunately, ​Osmosis has you covered​!  

Building a study guide is easy with ​Osmosis​. Simply tell the platform when you’re planning on 
taking Step 1, what resources you’re using, and on which days of the week you plan to study. The 
platform will build you a study guide automatically using this information.  

Check out this helpful video from Osmosis learner Greg Wu to get started. 
 
 
→ Learn how to set up an Osmosis Step 1 Study Schedule. 
 

4. Learn how to break down USMLE-style practice questions 

Knowing your systems and processes inside and out is just one aspect of studying for Step 1. You’ll 
also need to be familiar with how USMLE® questions are structured so you can quickly eliminate 
incorrect answer options and make the best choice. 

Osmosis has several resources that show you how to develop the right mindset to ace Step 1 
questions: 

● How to Ace Med School & The USMLE with Dr. Maddison Caterine 
 
● Breaking Down USMLE Step 1 Questions with Dr. Justin Ling 
 
● How to Use Question Banks Efficiently 

When you’re done with these resources, try putting your learnings into action with the Osmosis 
Q-Bank, which contains more than 3,336 Step 1-style practice questions. 
 
 

→ Get started with the Osmosis Question Bank. 

 
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5. Make effective use of flashcards 

Flashcards are a convenient way to learn a high volume of information quickly. They’re best suited 
for learning individual facts rather than interconnected concepts, and a great way to study 
on-the-go.  

Osmosis Prime has over 16,500 flashcards built into the platform, many of which are derived from 
Brosencephalon’s Anki deck, all containing information you may need to know for Step 1. If you’re 
using Anki, you can integrate your decks into the Osmosis learning platform.  

You can also build your own flashcard decks on Osmosis using the F ​ lashcard Builder​. Not sure 
where to start? Osmosis learner Jason Lundy wrote a fantastic article on W
​ riting Great Flashcards​. 

6. Practice multimedia learning 

Multimedia learning is when you incorporate written, visual, and audio materials into your learning. 
This is the essence of learning by Osmosis! 

When you learn from a variety of sensory stimuli, that information is processed into smaller “bits” 
which become part of your working memory. Combining the words you read and listen to with 
visual images helps your working memory process them together as integrated ​“chunks”​ which 
moves the concepts into your long-term memory more efficiently and forms stronger links with 
information you’ve already learned. 

   
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The Osmosis Learning Loop 

Studying for USMLE Step 1 with Osmosis allows you to harness the power of multimedia learning 
to gain knowledge that will stick with you long after you've taken the exam. Make the most of it 
using these resources and practice the Osmosis Learning Loop: 

● Watch a ​video 
 
● Go through the ​flashcards 
 
● Test yourself with ​practice questions 
 
● Review the information with H ​ igh-Yield Notes

 
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7. Take practice exams 

For a $75 fee, you can visit your local Prometric test center and take a short practice test in the 
same environment that you’ll take the actual Step 1 exam. These are shorter than the exam you’ll 
take on test day, clocking in at around 3.5 hours, but they’re a good way to familiarize yourself with 
the exam setting. To learn more and register, visit the ​USMLE website​.  

Step 1 is a long examination, and you need to go in prepared to deal with what can be a physically 
and mentally exhausting experience. To get a feel for this, you should try to simulate the test 
environment with at-home practice tests before you take the exam.  

The NBME’s comprehensive self-assessments will help you identify key areas you need to focus on 
to improve your score. Typically, they’re about 4 hours long—doing two of these back-to-back is 
gruelling, but good training for test day. 
 

→ Learn more about NBME self-assessment services. 

 
A note about NBME practice tests: many students obsess over their practice test scores and cause 
themselves undue stress. Think of this as a practice run, not an exact predictor of your Step 1 score.  

When should I take my Step 1 practice tests?  

Every student will approach practice tests differently. There are a range of approaches, and you 
should do what works for you. Some students may take a practice test every 2–3 weeks during their 
dedicated study period, including one at the Prometric test center.  

Whatever your approach, try to take a practice test at least a month before the actual exam. This 
way, if you don’t get a score that is within the range you want, you’ll have time to reevaluate your 
goals and rethink your strategy with minimal stress.  

The ​Osmosis Step 1 Study Schedule​ will automatically integrate practice exams into your schedule if 
you create one during the dedicated period, about three months from your test date. The platform 
will pick the optimal days for you to take your practice tests.  
 
A little further out from your test date, or don’t have a date selected yet but still want to incorporate 
some practice exams into your schedule? The Step 1 Study Schedule allows you to input these 
dates manually, along with other resources (question banks, books, and videos).

 
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8. Maintain healthy habits in the lead-up to the big day 

Keeping a healthy routine should be part of every study plan. Physical and mental self-care is crucial 
for thriving in every stage of your medical education, but the months, weeks and days leading up to 
your first board exam are particularly stressful. Here are a ​few quick tips for maintaining 
equilibrium​ a​ nd managing any last-minute exam-day jitters​ s​ o you feel fully ready to crush Step 1 
on test day. 

Take study breaks 

Taking a break will give your brain time to absorb the information for the long-term. Once you see 
your productivity levels starting to flag, it's time to step away from the books and do something else, 
even if it's just for a few minutes. Check out these study tips from Osmosis learners and the team 
for more information on the value of breaks, plus advice on how to optimize your study space for 
maximum productivity, and more: 

● How to maintain productivity in the midst of uncertainty 

 
● How to stay focused and avoid distractions during quarantine 
 
● Finding inner peace during a time of turmoil 

Make sure to exercise 

Physical exercise has positive benefits for cognitive performance. It’s also a great way to blow off 
steam. Osmosis learners Abe Baker (University of Illinois College of Medicine, Rockford) and Percy 
Takyi (Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine) both watch Osmosis videos while they 
exercise! 

● Multitasking with Osmosis 

 
● Establishing Balance in Medical School 
 
● Try This No Equipment At-Home Workout for Students in Quarantine 

 
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Eat a healthy diet 

When it comes to Step 1 studying, ramen noodles aren’t going to cut it. You need to eat real brain 
food. Eating a healthy, balanced diet of green vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins will keep 
you alert and focused. 

● 5 ways to get your health back on track 

 
● How to meal plan in medical school 

Maintain a regular sleep schedule 

Proper sleep hygiene is important. Going to bed at a consistent time every night will keep your brain 
well-rested, which helps strengthen connections between ideas. 

While it might be tempting to sneak in a few flashcards on your phone before bed, try to avoid 
doing this. Stop studying, switch off, and avoid screens at least an hour before bed. 

Establish a support system with friends and family 

Maintaining relationships is challenging during medical school​, especially during your Step 1 study 
period, but it’s very important for your mental wellbeing. Whoever you choose to be part of your 
support network, make sure to stay in regular contact with them. Having someone to cheer you on 
as you reach towards your goals is incredibly motivating! 
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Celebrate important study milestones 

Studying for Step 1 is like a marathon—you have to pace yourself! And every once in a while, that 
means taking a study break. Small goals are worth acknowledging, and it really helps to have 
something to look forward to at the end of a period of dedicated review. 

Stop studying the day before the exam 

Now, this one might be a little controversial for die-hard USMLE preppers. But hear us out. 

Dedicate the day before the exam to getting yourself into the right headspace. Relax, recharge, and 
take care of last-minute housekeeping tasks, like figuring out how to get to the test center, checking 
the weather, and preparing your snacks. 

And, for those of you asleep in the back, we’ll say it one last time: g
​ o to bed early​!

   
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USMLE Step 1 exam logistics: What you need to know for 

the big day 
Now that you’re familiar with what’s on the USMLE Step 1 exam, how to study for it, and how to 
mentally and physically prepare for it, it’s time to look at practical details, like registering for and 
taking the exam. 

How do I apply to take Step 1 as a US Student? 

To register for the exam you’ll need to visit the ​NBME® Licensing Examination Services​ website, 
input your information, and pay a $​ 645 registration fee​. You’ll then need to coordinate with your 
institution to have your documents sent to the NBME head office for processing. 

After you receive your email confirming your three-month testing window, head to the ​Prometric 
website​ to schedule a specific date. 

How do I apply to take Step 1 as an International Medical Student? 

If you’re an International Medical Student (you attend a medical school outside of the U.S. and 
Canada), you’ll have to register through the E
​ ducational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates 
(ECFMG®)​. 

Can I reschedule my Step 1 exam date if I need to? 

Yes. 31 days or more from your scheduled exam date is free, closer to the exam incurs a fee. Get 
the specifics ​here​. 

When should I take Step 1? 

U.S. medical students typically take Step 1 in April, at the end of their dedicated study period, but it 
varies by institution. Some students don’t take it until the third year, when they’re in the midst of 
clinical rotations! 

International students will often take Step 1 during the summer between their preclinical years and 
the start of clerkship, e.g., the summer after second year in a four-year program, or after fourth year 
in a six-year program. 

Whenever you end up taking Step 1, make sure you give yourself plenty of time for review. Studying 
can be completed in three months but six months of study is ideal. 

 
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Where do I take Step 1? 

USMLE Step 1 exams take place at Prometric test centers around the country. To find where your 
nearest test center is, plug your ZIP code into P
​ rometric’s website​. COVID-19 impacted Prometric 
test centers, but as of June, they have ​reopened for essential tests​. 

What can I expect on test day? 

You need to show up for the exam at least 30 minutes before the scheduled time to check in. If 
you’re late, you won’t be allowed to take the exam. Bring a government issued ID with a name that 
matches your scheduling notification. 

The exam center will provide you with a temporary locker for your belongings, which you can access 
during your breaks. You’re not allowed to bring anything into the exam room with you, save for your 
ID, locker key, and soft earplugs and noise-cancelling headphones provided by the test center.  

Items like eyeglasses will be inspected to check for cameras, and all jewelry with the exception of 
wedding rings is forbidden. Empty your pockets, and prepare to be scanned with a metal detector 
before entering the exam room. 
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What is the USMLE Step 1 exam room like? 

As we’ve mentioned, USMLE exams typically take place at Prometric test centers, although with 
COVID-19, temporary test centers have opened up on some campuses. Remote exam proctoring is 
also being considered. 

In a typical scenario, you’ll enter an exam room that looks like an office space. There will be cubicles 
with individual computers. You’ll be told which is yours before entering the exam room. If you 
experience issues with your assigned computer, inform staff immediately. 

 
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What is the USMLE Step 1 test interface like? 

The USMLE Step 1 test interface is pretty simple—you can check out a working version h ​ ere​. We’ve 
also put together this image highlighting the basic features and their functionality. 

 
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How do breaks work during the USMLE Step 1 exam? 

USMLE Step 1 test-takers are entitled to 45 minutes of break time throughout the course of the 
exam. You can take up to six breaks, i.e., one break between every testing block. You cannot break in 
the middle of a block.  

How you use your break time is up to you. Some test-takers will take a break every block, while 
others will take a longer break every two blocks. If you finish a block early, you can leave the exam 
room and that time will be added onto your break period. 

You can also add to your break period by skipping the 15-minute tutorial session at the beginning of 
the exam. Test-takers can do the tutorial at home before heading to the test center. If you’re familiar 
with NBME practice exams (and you should be!) or platforms that use a similar interface, like 
UWorld, you should also be fine to skip the tutorial.  

What should I bring with me to the Prometric test center? 

Bring a water bottle and some light snacks to eat between test blocks. Avoid a full lunch, as it could 
make you sleepy. Osmosis’s health and wellness coach, Ishan Dahal, recommends healthy foods 
that will give you quick energy boosts, like: 

(Note: When you leave the exam, don’t forget to bring the slip provided by the test center that 
proves you took the exam—if anything, it’ll serve as a reminder that the whole experience was real!) 

 
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I have a disability. Can the Prometric test center accommodate my needs? 

Yes, accommodations can be made for people with physical and learning disabilities, provided the 
applicant provides full documentation regarding the particularities of their circumstances. You’ll 
need to fill out an application form and provide a personal statement and copies of professional 
assessments. 

For a full list of what you need to do to get started, visit the ​USMLE test accommodations page​.  

What should I expect after I take USMLE Step 1? 

When will my Step 1 results arrive? 

Exam results typically take 3–4 weeks to arrive. If possible, try to use this time to relax and recharge. 
You’ve earned it, and at this point, you’ve done everything you can! 

   
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What USMLE Step 1 score do I need to match? 

This completely depends on what residency you’re aiming for. Hyper-competitive residencies like 
dermatology and neurosurgery will require a higher Step 1 score, while pediatrics and family 
medicine are on the lower end. Where you want to apply also matters: the greater an institution’s 
prestige, the higher the bar. 
 
We tabulated the NRMP’s yearly match report data to help you establish a benchmark for Step 1. If 
you're taking Step 1 this year or next year, this information remains relevant. However, on February 
12, 2020, the ​NRMP announced that Step 1 scoring will change to pass/fail​, commencing no earlier 
than January, 2022. 

You may spot some inconsistencies in this data compiled from the NRMP's 2020–2022 report, 
Charting Outcomes in the Match​. W​hy would some unmatched candidates have a higher average 
Step 1 score than candidates who than matched? That’s because there are other factors beyond 
your Step 1 score that influence the Match. 

If you’re taking Step 1 before the pass/fail cut-off, you should try and get the highest score you’re 
capable of to maximize your options. You cannot take the test a second time (unless you fail), so 
make it count. 

What does this mean for incoming first-year medical students? Well, it means other factors—such 
as USMLE Step 2 CK and CS—will play a bigger role in determining what residency programs you'll 
be eligible for. Check out the next section to learn how you can improve your chances to land the 
residency you want.  
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What happens if I fail Step 1? 

Unfortunately, ​some students do fail ​Step 1 (or the other Step exams) each year. It’s not the best of 
circumstances— even if you score high on a subsequent attempt, the fact that you failed can impact 
your residency applications, as there are far more applicants than available residency positions. 

If you fail Step 1, the first thing you should do is tell your advisor. They will help you come up with a 
recovery plan, delaying your clinical rotations if necessary, and arranging a second attempt. 
Remember to ​thank your advisors​ for their help! 

When you’re studying for Step 1 the second time, assess your previous study strategy and adapt. 
Avoid spending too long on any one subject, and focus on what you don’t know, rather than topics 
you’re already confident in. Use practice tests to identify your areas of weakness and double-down 
on them to build a more well-rounded knowledge base. 
 

→ Learn more about Overcoming Failure in Medical School. 

 
Step 1 isn’t the sole measure of your worth as a residency applicant and future doctor. There are 
other factors, including: 

● Writing a compelling cover letter 

 
● Working on a compelling Curriculum Vitae 
 
● Sourcing great letters of recommendation from your mentors 
 
● Nailing your medical school interviews 
 
● Publishing research 
 
● Demonstrating strong academic performance 
 
● Showcasing your work and volunteer experience 
 
● Having a graduate degree 

   
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How has COVID-19 impacted Step 1? 

The COVID-19 pandemic has understandably had an impact on board exams for all health 
professionals. Many students have had their exams pushed back or cancelled altogether. Those who 
are still able to take the exams are doing so in exceptional circumstances, and must take adequate 
safety precautions. 

For a more detailed look at what's going on with Step 1 in light of the pandemic, c​ heck out this 
article​. 

 
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How can Osmosis help me study for USMLE Step 1? 

Studying for Step 1 is one of the biggest challenges you’ll face as a medical student. We know, 
because we’ve been there. Osmosis was founded by medical students for medical students. It’s 
designed to take all the complex information you’re expected to know in medical school and make it 
manageable—not just for Step 1, but for the rest of your education, and in your career. 

Check out these s​ uccess stories from Osmosis learners​:  

 
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Ace USMLE® Step 1 & beyond with Osmosis resources 

Osmosis gathers all the resources you need to stay organized and study more efficiently for the 
USMLE® Step 1 and Step 2 CK in one place. Get access to: 

● 1,600+ Osmosis USMLE® videos​ offering comprehensive coverage of pathology, physiology, 

pharmacology, and Clinical Reasoning, as well as High-Yield Videos for dedicated Step 1 
prep 
 
● 7,000+ USMLE-style case questions 
 
● 16,000+ USMLE-style flashcards 
 
● Dedicated U
​ SMLE Step 1 Study Schedule  
 
● High-Yield Pathology & Physiology Notes 

And so much more!  

Osmosis also aligns with your favorite USMLE® resources and study tools, including: 

● First Aid  
 
● Pathoma 
 
● UWorld  
 
● SketchyMedical 
 
● Picmonic 
 
● Boards and Beyond  

Better manage your studying with Osmosis and ace the USMLE®. T
​ ry it free today​.