The last few weeks of your preparation for the USMLE is critical and this period plays a major role in determining your performance and your ultimate results. Here's a list of tips that get you through this important last part of your prep: Do not underestimate the importance of this period, stay focused and keep going until the last day Doing more questions than reviewing books is highly recommended to "train" you for the exam day and remember that you'll never be able to memorize the books. Keep a list of forgettables and read them few days before the exam. Sleep early and wake up early. Many students do not listen to this advice but believe me, your performance will double if you get a good night's sleep before the exam. Do not read during the last day, Do not read during the last day, Do not read during the last day, I can't stress it more than that! It's very important to rehabilitate and give your brain sometime to rearrange itself and reset its wiring for the big day, continued reading during the last day will have deleterious effects. Do not postpone your exam just because you feel that you did not memorize everything, this will never happen. Moreover, you may risk going into exhaustion and boredom phase if you push the date further. Take the NBME one to two weeks before the exam as this will give the final prediction of your score. It's preferred that you take a vacation if you are working. This exam needs serious dedication during the last few weeks. It's useful to do a full mock exam (7-8 random timed blocks in one day) but do not do it more than once, the purpose is to gain endurance, not reviewing knowledge. Eat healthy food, take vitamins, exercise at least 20 minutes per day. Do not take stimulants, or coffee, or other boosters. Keep the coffee to the morning of the exam day only. It might be a good a idea to schedule Prometric Test just to get acquainted with center and the environment and help you avoid the next last point.. Do not panic! You came this far and you will do it (---: Source : Tips for your last weeks of USMLE Prep - USMLE Forums
