Preparing for the USMLE exams can be one of the most challenging experiences of a medical student’s career. Many students mistakenly believe that studying longer, using more resources, or focusing solely on content review will guarantee success. However, the reality is that inefficient study habits can be a significant obstacle to achieving the score you want.
Since tutoring for USMLE over the last almost three years, I have seen students make the same mistakes that kept them from achieving their goal scores. Here are the ten biggest mistakes that could be holding you back and how to fix them, whether you are studying for Step 1 or Step 2!
1. Annotating First Aid or taking excessive notes instead of making flashcards
Many students fall into the trap of annotating First Aid or taking copious notes while studying. Unfortunately, this approach often leads to passive learning and inefficient review.
Writing notes or annotations feels productive but rarely translates to high-yield learning. The better approach is to create flashcards, preferably using a spaced repetition system like Anki. This method leverages active recall, which is proven to improve long-term retention.
Overall, the easier the study method (such as reading, writing, highlighting, watching videos), the less you are actually learning. Active study methods include practice questions, Anki, teaching, and creating mind maps.
2. Studying 12+ hours every day without breaks
It’s easy to think that studying for as many hours as possible will lead to better results. However, studying excessively without breaks leads to burnout, fatigue, and reduced productivity.
The reality is that your brain needs time to recharge. Taking at least one full day off each week allows you to reset, stay motivated, and perform at your best when you return to studying.
3. Using too many resources instead of mastering a few
Many students feel compelled to use every study resource available, but this approach leads to information overload and superficial understanding.
It’s far more effective to choose 2-4 reliable, high-yield resources and focus on mastering them. One resource should be a question bank – I highly recommend UWorld. The other resource(s) should be used for content review.
If you choose OnlineMedEd for your review resource, don’t forget to use my code “DRALINA25” to get 25% off on all multi-month subscriptions! I personally used OME when studying for Step 2, and scored 257!
4. Starting practice questions too late
One of the most common mistakes is waiting until after content review to start doing practice questions. However, research shows that answering questions early on, even if you get them wrong, significantly enhances future learning. Start doing practice questions from day one, review your mistakes, and integrate those concepts into your flashcards.
5. Spending too much time on content review instead of practice questions
Many students fall into the trap of prioritizing content review over practice questions. While understanding the material is important, mastery comes from applying knowledge through practice questions. Studies have shown that the number of questions completed before the USMLE is one of the strongest predictors of USMLE performance.
“What we have to learn to do, we learn by doing”. – Aristotle
6. Not tracking and reviewing incorrect answers
Getting questions wrong can be discouraging, but it’s one of the most valuable ways to learn. If you don’t track your incorrects and review them regularly, you’ll likely repeat the same mistakes. Make flashcards for your incorrect answers, use a tool like Anki for spaced repetition, and review these cards consistently.
7. Focusing on low-yield topics instead of high-yield material
I have seen students waste valuable study hours going down rabbit holes of unimportant information that is unlikely to be tested. While it’s tempting to chase every piece of information, USMLE exams reward knowing certain concepts.
Focus on high-yield topics repeatedly tested on the exam. Resources like First Aid, UWorld, and Pathoma are specifically curated to cover high-yield content. Avoid getting caught up in rare diseases or obscure details.
8. Ignoring time management and exam strategy
Even students who know the material well can struggle if they don’t practice time management and exam strategies. Use a timer while doing practice questions and simulate exam conditions. Develop a strategy for handling tough questions, flagging, and pacing yourself to avoid rushing or running out of time.
9. Not adjusting your study plan based on performance
A common pitfall is sticking to a rigid study plan even when it’s not working. Continuously assess your performance, track progress, and adapt your plan as needed.
If you’re struggling in a specific area, allocate more time to that subject and incorporate practice questions to strengthen your weaknesses.
“The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results”
10. Underestimating the importance of mental health and self-care
It’s easy to neglect mental health during intense study periods, but stress and burnout can derail your preparation. Incorporate self-care habits, exercise regularly, and prioritize sleep. Remember, studying efficiently is more important than studying endlessly.
Final thoughts…
Studying for the USMLE exams requires more than just hard work—it demands strategic and efficient preparation. Avoid these ten mistakes, and you’ll maximize your chances of success. Study smart, stay consistent, and trust your preparation. You’ve got this!
