Tips for Taking the USMLE Step 1 Exam

1. Do the tutorial from the USMLE orientation materials prior to test day.
2. Become familiar with all the navigation features (e.g., "next", "previous", "item review", "more"/scroll bar), functions (e.g., mark questions, annotate items, highlight/strikeout answer options) and resources (e.g., time information, standard lab values table) available on the test screen so that you can use them effectively during the exam.
3. Always check to see if you need to scroll. Be aware of the scroll bar and a "more" button that replaces the "next" button.
4. Practice, practice, practice your test-taking with paper & pencil and computer-based questions.
5. Anticipate problems associated with sitting at computer terminal for 7 hours of testing.
6. Plan ahead for breaktimes - write out a schedule (see below for an example).
7. Monitor time as carefully as possible.
8. Practice using earplugs if you will be using them during the test.
9. Know your "normal values". There is a table to refer to but knowing the most common values will save you time.
10. Don't panic if you do something wrong, or if something goes wrong with the computer during the text -- contact the proctor.
11. Become familiar with the test site.
12. Plan ahead for what food you will be taking.
13. Call your local Prometric test site to confirm your test date.
14. Set out Scheduling Permit, picture ID with signature, car keys, etc. the night before.

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