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How to Study for the USMLE Step 2 CS Exam with Csevideo

Discussion in 'USMLE' started by Csevideo, Jun 30, 2013.

  1. Csevideo

    Csevideo Well-Known Member

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    In this article we are going to run through a series of proven methods
    that have been used to pass the USMLE Step 2 CS exam.

    First off, there’s the question of how long to study for the exam. There
    are varying opinions on this matter but, ultimately, it boils down to the
    individual and his or her abilities. The main thing you will want to do is
    to give yourself enough time to prepare based on what is comfortable for
    you. Remember that the exam is scored based on how well you do in your
    encounter with the patient, so it’s not all about absorbing information.
    Although, on average, most people studying for the exam should be
    comfortable with about 4-6 weeks of preparation time.

    The three areas you will be graded on are as follows:
    Integrated Clinical Encounter (ICE) ”“ This element includes gathering data
    and information from the simulated patient and writing a patient note with
    a differential diagnosis after the exam. Your abilities gathering the
    information are then graded by the SP while the patient notes are graded
    by a practicing physician.

    Communication and Interpersonal Skills (CIS) ”“ This is about how well you
    relate to and interact with the patient. Professionalism, making eye
    contact, and building a rapport with the patient are some of the things
    you will be graded on.

    Spoken English Proficiency (SEP) ”“ This includes the clarity of spoken
    English communication. Pronunciation, choice of words, and limiting the
    need to ask questions or make statements repeatedly.

    Recommended resources:
    CSE Video
    Including 48 video cases that present a complete view on what you may
    experience in the actual exam. The videos cover cases that can be found in
    the First Aid and Kaplan Complex so it’s easy to use the books to follow
    along. Each video is 15 minutes long and covers history, review of
    symptoms, past medical history, social history, transition statements,
    empathy (CIS), challenging questions and more. The videos contain no
    interruptions or narrations so you can completely focus on the encounter.

    Audio notes assist you with introduction, empathy, closure, and
    counselling (CIS). This is also a great tool for Spoken English
    Proficiency.

    There’s also an assessment exam which includes 12 mystery cases that allow
    you to practice your ability to master data gathering (ICE) and the timed
    patient note. A timed interactive page simulates the actual exam to help
    you increase your skills. Mnemonics found no where else will also help you
    quickly and efficiently write your patient notes.

    Books
    First Aid for the USMLE Step 2 CS
    Kaplan Medical USMLE Step 2 CS: Complex Cases
    The books mentioned above will give you all of the high yield information
    for the exam. You will want to read through them multiple times as you
    prepare yourself for the exam. Once you familiarize yourself with the
    cases and watch the videos, you will begin to better understand how the
    exam will be conducted. Practice going over 4-5 cases in succession to get
    used to how the actual exam will be conducted. This will be useful in the
    long run because during the actual exam, your cases will be broken up in
    blocks separated by breaks so since this is an eight hour exam.

    (Optional: First Aid for the International Medical Graduate)

    Find a partner.
    Ask a friend or fellow student to act as a live SP. This will help you get
    some feedback on how well you’re doing in the three areas mentioned above.
    It will also help your timing. If you aren’t in a position to find a live
    SP, there are several resources available on the internet to help you find
    SP’s that you can practice with through Skype, for example.

    Things to consider.
    As you prepare for your exam be sure to pay attention to your strengths
    and weaknesses. Adjust your schedule and preparation accordingly. There
    are no hard and fast rules to what makes up the perfect study plan and
    only you can determine the best schedule as you prepare. These are just a
    few tips to help you in your path to success. The resources mentioned
    above have been used successfully by top scoring medical students. We wish
    you luck.

    Please Feel free to contact us anytime at: [email protected]
    Business mailing address: 2517 Rt44 #11 Salt Point, NY 12578
    Or call us Monday- Friday 9am-4pm EST (845)240-7931
    For technical support contact Blake Cohen at [email protected] or visit
    our FAQ page.


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