MASTERING STEP 2 CK: A PERSONAL GUIDE- SCORE OF 269 JOURNEY BY DR KRISHNA Sajeev 

Preparing for Step 2 CK can be a daunting task, but with the right strategy and resources, you can excel. Having navigated this journey myself, I’ve discovered some key insights that made a significant difference. Here's my personal guide to mastering Step 2 CK.

1. Embrace UWorld as a Learning Tool, Not an Assessment

UWorld is pivotal. Treat it as a learning tool rather than just an assessment. Use tutor mode and study with a friend if possible. Understanding why an answer is incorrect is as important as knowing the correct one. This approach helps you develop your own method to tackle questions.

2. Enhance Timing and Comprehension

To improve timing, practice questions from diverse sources, including some from Amboss. While redoing UWorld may not be highly productive, revisiting your wrong answers can be beneficial. Challenge yourself to think about different ways a concept could be tested. This repetitive exposure will train your eyes to quickly spot key points in questions.

3. Go Topic-Wise and Revise Regularly

Organize your study sessions by topics and revise them weekly. Use Anki for reinforcement, especially for pharmacology and microbiology. Premade decks can be incredibly useful. Sketchy Medical's resources for pharmacology and microbiology were particularly helpful for me.

4. Utilize CMS Forms and Additional Learning Tools

After completing UWorld, go through the latest CMS forms for each subject. Use them as additional learning materials. Amboss can provide more ways to approach behavioral science questions, while "Master the Boards" is precise and effective for shoring up weak areas.

5. Dive Deep into Flowcharts and Podcasts

Flowcharts are great for understanding complex processes. Ask "why" rather than just memorizing the content. Divine Podcasts are excellent supplementary resources. They can provide deeper insights and different perspectives on various topics.

6. Take All the NBMEs and Simulate the Real Exam

NBMEs are crucial as they mirror the type of questions you will encounter on exam day. Never skip them. Dissect each question based on age, gender, and the specific question being asked. Utilize UWSA and the Free 120 for additional practice. Watching Dr. Conrad Fischer’s videos on behavioral sciences also proved beneficial.

7. Manage Pre-Exam Anxiety

Complete your last test around 12 days before the main exam to avoid anxiety. Regularize your sleep schedule two days before the exam. On exam day, eat a simple breakfast and bring snacks like coffee, water, nuts, and a sandwich to keep your energy up. Take breaks after each block to stay refreshed.

8. Maintain Presence of Mind and Confidence

During the exam, if you encounter a string of difficult questions, don’t panic. Skip those and return to them later. This test is as much about handling stress and maintaining your cognitive capacity over eight hours as it is about knowledge. Believe in yourself, maintain your confidence, and pray if it helps.

Transitioning from a Step 1 score of 220 to a Step 2 CK score of 269 taught me the power of strategy and persistence. Remember, it’s not just about what you know but how you apply it under pressure. Trust in your preparation, have faith in your abilities, and keep pushing forward.

Good luck, future doctors! You’ve got this.