1. Do Questions in Tutor Mode (Initially)
- Why: It gives immediate feedback so you can learn while the content is fresh.
- How many/day: Start with 20–40 questions daily, depending on your pace.
2. Read the Explanations Carefully
Focus on three things:
- ✅ Why the correct answer is right
- ❌ Why the wrong ones are wrong
- 🔑 What concept is being tested (not just facts)
📌 Pro Tip: Don’t memorize the question—understand the pattern.
3. Take Smart Notes – Not Descriptive Notes
Only write down:
- High-yield facts
- Pathophysiology connections
- Mnemonic, mechanism, or trick that helped you understand the concept
- Repeat mistake areas or confusing differentials
✏️ Example Note Style:
- Hyponatremia in SIADH: Euvolemic, low serum osmolality, high urine Na+
- Tx: Fluid restriction → Salt tabs → Demeclocycline if refractory
4. Organize Notes by System
Use a digital platform like:
- Anki – for spaced repetition
- Notion / OneNote – for categorized notes
- Word Doc or Google Docs – if you prefer freeform typing
📁 Example Structure:
- Cardiovascular → CHF, Arrhythmias, Murmurs
- Renal → Nephritic vs Nephrotic, AKI types
5. Don’t Copy Every Word
- Just summarize in your own words
- If UWorld says:
“In SIADH, water retention leads to dilutional hyponatremia…”
You write:
👉 SIADH = ↑ADH → water retention → ↓Na (dilutional), normal volume
6. Flag and Review
- Flag important questions and come back weekly to review them.
- Also re-do incorrect questions after a week or two.
7. Use UWorld Diagrams and Tables
- Save or screenshot high-yield visuals into your notes.
- They’re often gold for Step 1/2 CK.
8. Last 4 Weeks – Transition to Timed/Random Mode
- Simulate exam conditions
- Review marked and incorrect Qs more than once
What you have to remember when you will make a notes from UW
Template Sections (Repeat for Each Topic)
- System
- Topic
- Buzzwords/Presentation
- Pathophysiology
- Diagnosis
- Management/Treatment
- High-Yield UWorld Insight
- Your Personal Mnemonic or Trick (if any)
- Related Flashcard Question (if using Anki)
🛠️ Tips for Organizing
- Use headings for easy navigation if using Word or Notion.
- Create tags in Anki by system/topic (e.g., “CV_Aortic_Stenosis”).
- Save tables or illustrations directly into notes if needed.