Next, I made well-integrated cards to reinforce those concepts. First, I’d master the material, by focusing on high-yield content. My process of learning and retention was simple. Even more, they provoked me to recall this knowledge through specific scenarios. I kept thinking, “this is what I’d been missing from my board studying!” The Yousmle cards reinforced physiologic and pathologic concepts. (Even though it was geared towards USMLE material, most of it overlapped with COMLEX Level 1.) This was several months before my COMLEX Level 1.Īlec enlightened me about Anki, and I began studying the Yousmle Step 1 Deck. Even more, I wanted to build a foundation gradually I’d never forget. I liked the idea of actually mastering the material, rather than merely memorizing it. Like many people, I turned to the internet in search of an answer to my questions and method for success. As such, I filled my head with facts I could never use. Additionally, I often made cards filled with specific, unimportant details. By reviewing information at increasing intervals, you can remember things effectively forever. In spaced repetition, information is shown at varying intervals. However, in retrospect, I had been using flashcards all wrong.įirst, I had never utilized the concept of spaced repetition. Like many med students, I had used flashcards in school. The Difference Between Mastery/Spaced Repetition vs. The high-stakes nature created even more anxiety. Additionally, like with the USMLEs, I knew these exams were the ticket to my dream residency. The thought of covering “everything” from these first two years overwhelmed me. However, like all DO students, I knew COMLEX would be different. Even though I forgot most of it afterward, I performed well on my preclinical tests. In our classroom exams, they were clear on what would be covered. Throughout the first and second year of medical school I was able to adapt. Here is Hailey’s account: The Difference Between COMLEX/USMLE vs. Even more impressive, she matched into a super-competitive specialty, dermatology! In this article, a former student describes how she transformed her approach. However, what about other exams? Do the principles of mastery and retention apply equally to other Board exams? We’ve covered the importance of mastery and retention in doing well on the USMLEs. For competitive specialties, high-demand cities, or top hospitals, Boards scores are critical. This is particularly true for competitive residencies. Additionally, their importance in your residency application is colossal. In both cases, the amount of material feels overwhelming. Whether you’re studying for COMLEX or USMLE, the stakes are high.

Omm anki deck