Best Books for USMLE Step 1 (2010)
It’s been quite some time since I posted the “Best Books for USMLE” and this time around I thought I would just update the different versions of text out there.
Here are the ULTIMATE essentials:
Number 1:
First Aid for the USMLE Step 1 (2010)
If I have to tell why you need this book to do well in the boards then I really don’t know where you’ve been. This is a NECESSITY! It contains all the information you will need to, at a minimum, pass the USMLEs. You will need the other books in this list to truly get those 240+ scores. With each new edition the book series gets better and contains all the relevant medical systems as well as some pharm and biochem. If you have to buy one book – this is it. Enjoy.
Number 2:
Rapid Review Pathology (3rd Edition)
Simple maths: Goljan + First Aid = USMLE success! Goljan is a world renowned Pathologist and his text book is quintessential to you doing well in the boards. He covers everything from pathology (of course), anatomy, biochemistry with a few decent tips thrown in. If you can get his audio files from the web that is a plus, but this book is enough. Don’t think about it, buy it.
Number 3:
BRS Pathology (Board Review Series)
Some people argue, and rightfully so, that Goljan’s text book is a bit too bullet point like and this book can help some of those people. BRS Pathology has a similar point form system, but not as jarring as Goljan’s. It still covers all the necessary board information but lacks the extra tid bits that RR Pathology covers. If you have extra cash it is still worth it.
Number 4:
BRS Physiology (Board Review Series)
Physiology is tricky to some and easier to others. Costanzo manages to make the physio quick and easy with short chapters as well as a few questions to keep you on your toes. I would never have made it through first year physiology without this book. This is the last book on the list but
Number 5:
This is not a text book but is probably one of the most useful resources you will have up until you write the exam. It has numerous USMLE-type questions and answers (with explanations) for you to get through and trust me there are a lot! You HAVE to go through this site before you sit the exam. I know that you all hate paying for stuff, but ask yourself just how badly you want that Surgery/Cardiology/Pathology internship?
Site: http://usmleworld.com/
ADVICE: Don’t get caught up in the all too common trap of amassing a treasure chest of books and attempting to get through all of them just before the exam. Usually it’s not possible and you will be constantly spreading yourself thin. Repetition is key in the boards and make use of the lecture notes given at your university because usually, if you were paying attention in class, you initially understood the first principles there.
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