Are you preparing to take the USMLE Step 1? This exam is a pivotal milestone on your journey to becoming a licensed physician, testing not only your medical knowledge but also your ability to think critically and solve complex problems. Known for its challenging nature, the USMLE Step 1 preparation requires a well-organized schedule to ensure success. With the right strategy and resources, you can approach this exam with confidence and maximize your chances of achieving your target score.
In this guide, we’ll help you craft an effective USMLE Step 1 preparation schedule tailored to your goals, learning style, and timeline. Let’s dive in!
Establish Your Goals
A strong foundation for USMLE Step 1 preparation begins with setting clear, achievable goals. Goals act as a roadmap, ensuring your efforts are organized, targeted, and efficient. Without a defined plan, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of material.
Let’s break this process into actionable steps that make studying more manageable and effective.
Set Realistic Expectations
USMLE Step 1 is a rigorous exam that assesses your knowledge of foundational sciences and your ability to apply that knowledge clinically. Preparing for it requires commitment and strategic planning. Start by asking yourself these questions:
- What score do I need for my desired residency program?
Research specific residency program requirements to understand the benchmarks for competitiveness in your specialty. For instance, competitive fields like dermatology and orthopedic surgery often require higher scores than primary care specialties. - How much time can I dedicate daily to studying?
Take stock of your existing commitments, such as classes, clinical rotations, or work. Be honest about how many hours you can consistently devote to preparation. - What are my strengths and weaknesses?
Reflect on past coursework and diagnostic test results (e.g., NBME practice exams), identifying areas that need extra attention. This ensures your study plan targets gaps in knowledge.
Tip: Aim for ambitious yet realistic goals. While a high score might be your target, avoid setting unachievable benchmarks that could lead to burnout. For instance, expecting a 260+ score in two months when starting with limited knowledge is unrealistic. Instead, focus on gradual improvement.
Break Down Your Goals into Actionable Tasks
Once you’ve outlined your overall objectives, break them into smaller, manageable tasks. This approach prevents procrastination, keeps you motivated, and allows you to track your progress effectively.
- Daily Goals:
- Complete 30 Anki flashcards on key topics like antibiotics, focusing on their mechanisms of action.
- Review one chapter from a resource like First Aid for the USMLE Step 1.
- Weekly Goals:
- Solve 200 UWorld practice questions on pharmacology and thoroughly review the explanations for both correct and incorrect answers.
- Revisit one weak subject (e.g., biochemistry pathways) by watching high-yield videos from resources like Sketchy Medical or Boards and Beyond.
Tracking progress with these bite-sized goals ensures that each day builds toward your ultimate success.
Set a Timeline
Creating a structured timeline is crucial to avoid procrastination and ensure consistent progress. Divide your total preparation period into focused phases:
- Phase 1: Foundation Building
- Duration: First third of your study period.
- Focus: Comprehensive review of all key subjects using resources like First Aid for the USMLE Step 1 and high-yield review videos. This phase emphasizes understanding and retention.
- Phase 2: Practice & Review
- Duration: Second third of your study timeline.
- Focus: Active recall and application through practice questions. Tools like UWorld and AMBOSS are excellent for this phase. Identify weak areas and dedicate extra time to mastering them.
- Phase 3: Final Review
- Duration: Final third of your preparation.
- Focus: Intensive practice tests and rapid review of weak topics. Incorporate timed exams like NBME self-assessments to simulate real exam conditions.
Example Timeline:
If you have 12 weeks to prepare, allocate:
- Weeks 1–4: Review core subjects and create summary notes.
- Weeks 5–8: Active question-solving and review of incorrect answers.
- Weeks 9–12: Final review and timed practice tests.
Regularly reassess your timeline to stay on track. If unexpected challenges arise, adapt your plan but maintain the quality of your preparation.
Leverage Technology for Goal Management
Use productivity apps like Notion, Trello, or Todoist to organize your tasks and track daily progress. These tools allow you to set reminders, create checklists, and visualize your goals.
By establishing clear, actionable goals, breaking them down into manageable tasks, and adhering to a structured timeline, you can tackle USMLE Step 1 preparation with confidence and focus.
Choose Your Study Materials Well
Your study materials are the foundation of your preparation for USMLE Step 1. With an overwhelming number of resources available, it’s easy to feel lost. Choosing the right combination of tools is key to making your study sessions efficient, productive, and tailored to your learning style. Let’s break it down into core resources and supplemental materials to help you create the perfect toolkit.
Core Study Resources
These resources are essential for every USMLE Step 1 candidate and should form the backbone of your preparation:
- First Aid for the USMLE Step 1:
This is widely regarded as the bible for Step 1 preparation. Organized into concise, high-yield sections, First Aid consolidates key information across all subjects. Use it as a roadmap to track your progress, annotate it with additional insights, and regularly revisit sections you’ve mastered. - UWorld QBank:
The gold standard for practice questions, UWorld is unparalleled in its ability to mimic real exam scenarios. It’s not just a question bank—it’s a learning tool. Each question is paired with detailed explanations and high-yield insights. Aim to complete the entire QBank, review your mistakes, and take notes in First Aid to reinforce key concepts. - Anki Flashcards:
Anki’s spaced repetition algorithm is a game-changer for memorizing facts and mnemonics. Premade decks like Zanki or AnKing are student favorites, covering everything from pharmacology to pathology. Customize these decks to fit your weak areas and set aside time each day to stay consistent. - Pathoma:
Pathology is the cornerstone of Step 1, and Pathoma breaks it down into digestible chunks. Dr. Sattar’s videos and accompanying book simplify complex topics, making it easy to integrate with First Aid and UWorld. Watch the videos, follow along with the book, and use it as a quick reference for difficult concepts. - Boards and Beyond:
Ideal for building a strong foundation, Boards and Beyond offers comprehensive video lectures that clarify the basics and connect topics across disciplines. Use this resource early in your preparation to solidify core concepts and revisit videos as needed.
Supplemental Materials
Depending on your learning style, supplemental resources can add an extra layer of understanding or help reinforce specific topics:
- Sketchy:
If you’re a visual learner, Sketchy is a must-have for microbiology and pharmacology. Its creative illustrations and stories make it easier to retain information about pathogens, drugs, and mechanisms of action. Incorporate Sketchy sessions into your daily schedule to lighten the load of memorization. - Kaplan QBank:
After finishing UWorld, Kaplan QBank offers additional practice questions to strengthen weak areas. It’s especially useful for reinforcing subjects like physiology and biochemistry. Use it strategically to target gaps in your knowledge. - Lecturio:
Lecturio provides detailed video lectures, interactive quizzes, and study schedules. It’s a great option if you need a fresh perspective on challenging topics or want a structured program to guide your preparation.
How to Choose the Right Resources
The ideal mix of resources depends on your learning style and areas of weakness. Here are a few tips to guide your selection:
- Ask for Recommendations:
Talk to peers, mentors, or upper-year students who’ve aced Step 1. They can share valuable insights about what worked for them and help you avoid less effective tools. - Limit Your Materials:
Avoid spreading yourself too thin by trying to use every resource. Stick to 2-3 core resources and 1-2 supplemental ones to maximize efficiency without overwhelming yourself. - Adapt as You Progress:
If a resource isn’t working for you, don’t be afraid to pivot. It’s better to invest time in tools that match your learning style than to persist with something unhelpful.
Integrating Resources into Your Study Plan
Using multiple resources effectively requires a coordinated approach:
- Combine Resources: For instance, review pathology topics in Pathoma, consolidate them in First Aid, and test your understanding with UWorld questions.
- Annotate First Aid: Treat First Aid as your central hub. Add notes from UWorld, Pathoma, and Boards and Beyond to create a comprehensive, personalized reference.
- Track Your Progress: Keep a checklist of completed topics and question blocks to ensure you’re covering all the material methodically.
Choosing the right study materials is one of the most important steps in your USMLE Step 1 preparation. By selecting resources that align with your goals and study habits, you’ll not only save time but also boost your confidence as you move closer to exam day.
Create a Schedule
Time management is your most valuable ally in preparing for the USMLE Step 1. Creating a personalized study schedule ensures you cover all the essential material while balancing productivity and self-care. Here’s how to craft a schedule that works for you:
Break Down Your Goals into Manageable Chunks
The USMLE Step 1 is vast, but breaking it into smaller, actionable tasks makes it more approachable. Instead of aiming to “study biochemistry,” break it into focused objectives like:
- Week 1: Cover metabolic pathways (e.g., glycolysis, Krebs cycle) and solve 50 UWorld practice questions.
- Week 2: Master enzymatic mechanisms and complete related Anki flashcards.
Key Tip: Use resources like First Aid for the USMLE Step 1 to identify high-yield topics and plan weekly or daily goals around them.
Prioritize High-Yield Topics
Time is finite, so focus more on the topics that carry the most weight in the exam. For example:
- Pathology: Dedicate extra time to understanding disease mechanisms and clinical presentations.
- Physiology: Master core principles like cardiac, renal, and respiratory systems.
- Pharmacology: Emphasize drug mechanisms, interactions, and side effects.
- Microbiology: Use tools like SketchyMicro to memorize key organisms and distinguishing features.
To better allocate time, refer to the NBME content outline or use score-reporting data to identify subject weightings.
Be Strategic About Practice Questions
Practice questions are vital for success. Integrate question banks into your schedule as early as possible to reinforce active learning and application. Here’s a suggested plan:
- Dedicate 1–2 hours daily to solving UWorld questions. Focus on understanding why you got a question right or wrong.
- Every week, allocate a day to review incorrectly answered questions. Look for patterns in your mistakes to target weak areas.
Pro Tip: Prioritize explanations over scores when reviewing questions. Learning from errors is more valuable than achieving a high percentage initially.
Integrate Breaks and Self-Care
Effective studying requires balance. Research shows that breaks improve focus and retention, so don’t skip them.
How to Incorporate Breaks:
- Use techniques like the Pomodoro Method (e.g., 50-minute study, 10-minute break).
- During breaks, engage in activities that refresh your mind, like stretching, deep breathing, or a quick walk outside.
- Avoid distractions like social media; opt for activities that relax without overloading your brain.
Example Schedule:
- Morning Block: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM (study with a 10-minute break every hour)
- Lunch Break: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM (rest, hydrate, and recharge)
- Afternoon Block: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM (study with 10-minute breaks)
Leverage Technology to Stay Organized
Technology simplifies planning and helps you stay accountable. Here are a few tools to consider:
- My Study Life: Create and manage your schedule with color-coded tasks for easy prioritization.
- Google Calendar: Schedule your daily study blocks and set reminders to stay on track.
- UWorld App: Access practice questions on the go and maximize small pockets of time.
- Anki: Use its spaced repetition feature to reinforce challenging concepts and ensure long-term retention.
Review and Adapt Regularly
Your schedule isn’t set in stone. Assess your progress weekly:
- Are you keeping up with your timeline?
- Which areas still need reinforcement?
- Do you need to adjust your daily goals to focus on weak subjects?
Sample Study Plan Template
Here’s an example of what a balanced day might look like:
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM | Review First Aid chapters on Pathology. |
| 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM | Watch Pathoma videos and summarize key points. |
| 10:30 AM – 10:45 AM | Break (stretch or light exercise). |
| 10:45 AM – 12:15 PM | Solve 40 UWorld questions. |
| 12:15 PM – 1:15 PM | Lunch and short rest. |
| 1:15 PM – 3:00 PM | Review missed UWorld questions and revise flashcards. |
| 3:00 PM – 3:30 PM | Physical activity (yoga or a walk). |
| 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM | Focused review of weaker topics. |
Building a well-structured schedule isn’t just about studying harder; it’s about studying smarter. By breaking down goals, prioritizing high-yield material, and integrating self-care, you can prepare effectively without burning out. Use technology, track your progress, and adjust your plan as needed to stay on track. With the right approach, your hard work will pay off.
Utilize Effective Study Strategies
When it comes to preparing for the USMLE Step 1, understanding the material thoroughly and using active recall techniques are crucial for your success. The exam is designed to test your ability to integrate and apply medical knowledge, so simply reading through your notes won’t be enough. A structured, active approach is necessary to retain the vast amount of information and ensure that you can recall it under exam conditions. Here’s how you can optimize your study strategies:
1. Build a Strong Foundation with Thorough Reading
Start by reading through all your core materials in depth. This includes high-yield resources such as First Aid for the USMLE Step 1, which is widely considered a must-have for your review. The key is to make sure you’re not just skimming the surface but deeply understanding the material.
As you study, don’t just read passively. Engage with the content actively by making notes, summarizing key points, and asking yourself questions as you go along. Visual aids like diagrams and charts can be incredibly useful, especially for complex subjects such as anatomy and biochemistry. For example, Sketchy Medical provides memorable illustrations for microbiology and pharmacology, which could enhance your understanding of difficult concepts.
2. Implement Active Recall and Spaced Repetition
Active recall is one of the most effective techniques for retaining information over the long term. Instead of passively reading your notes or watching videos, actively test yourself on the material. Use flashcards (like those available in Anki) to reinforce key concepts. Anki uses a spaced repetition algorithm that helps you review information at increasing intervals, optimizing retention.
You can also try summarizing the material from memory after reviewing it. This process of recalling and organizing information forces your brain to engage with the material more actively and strengthens neural pathways, making it easier to retrieve the information when you need it.
3. Incorporate Mnemonics for Complex Information
Mnemonics are incredibly helpful for memorizing large amounts of information, especially when dealing with lists or complex processes. These memory aids help you create associations that are easier to recall. A popular example is the mnemonic “Every Good Boy Deserves Fudge” to remember the musical notes on the lines of a treble staff (EGBDF).
For USMLE Step 1, you can develop your own mnemonics or use widely recognized ones for subjects like pharmacology and microbiology. For instance, remembering the side effects of certain medications can be simplified through mnemonics like “ABCD” for the side effects of ACE inhibitors: Angioedema, Bradypnea, Cough, and Dizziness.
You can also find ready-made mnemonic decks online or through apps like Brainscape or Quizlet, which are full of user-generated content tailored to the USMLE Step 1.
4. Use Visualization to Understand Complex Systems
Visualization can be a game-changer when it comes to subjects like anatomy, physiology, and pathology. Visualizing how different body systems interact or imagining a process step-by-step can help deepen your understanding. For example, when studying the cardiac cycle, try visualizing the flow of blood through the heart and how each valve operates during different phases. Using 3D anatomy apps like Complete Anatomy or watching detailed videos on YouTube can help you grasp spatial relationships in the body.
When studying pharmacology, you can visualize how a particular drug affects the body, such as picturing how insulin works on glucose metabolism or how antibiotics target bacterial cell walls. This will give you a clearer understanding of the material and help improve your ability to recall it during the exam.
5. Mix in Active Learning and Practice Questions
One of the best ways to ensure you are truly mastering the material is by regularly practicing with USMLE-style questions. This is essential because it not only tests your knowledge but also familiarizes you with the exam format. UWorld QBank is considered the gold standard for practice questions. By regularly solving questions and thoroughly reviewing the explanations (especially for questions you get wrong), you’ll improve both your knowledge and your ability to apply it under timed conditions.
Incorporate these questions into your study schedule daily to simulate the pressure of the exam and build stamina. Keep in mind that practice tests (like those offered by NBME) should be taken every 1-2 weeks to assess your progress and adjust your study plan accordingly.
6. Ask for Help When Needed
If you’re struggling with a particular concept, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Consider reaching out to USMLE tutors or joining a study group where you can discuss and clarify difficult topics. Talking through problems with others is an effective way to reinforce your understanding and uncover gaps in your knowledge. Platforms like MedEdPORTAL offer peer-reviewed resources and study tips from students who have recently taken the exam, and online forums like Reddit’s r/Step1 can be a great way to seek advice from others going through the same process.
By combining these active study techniques—thorough reading, active recall, mnemonics, visualization, and consistent practice—you can significantly boost your understanding and retention of the material for USMLE Step 1. Make sure to track your progress regularly and remain adaptable, adjusting your strategies based on what works best for you.
Take Practice Tests Regularly
Taking practice tests is one of the most effective ways to prepare for the USMLE Step 1. These tests not only help you gauge your knowledge but also simulate the real exam environment, which is crucial for building confidence and refining your test-taking strategies. Here’s how you can make the most out of your practice tests:
1. Take Full-Length Practice Tests Every 1-2 Weeks
To mimic the actual test experience, schedule full-length practice tests every 1-2 weeks. This gives you a chance to assess your progress, identify weak areas, and improve your time management. Start by taking one early in your study plan to see where you stand. As you get closer to your exam date, incorporate more practice tests to track improvements and fine-tune your approach.
Some great resources for full-length practice tests include UWorld and NBME, which are trusted by many students for their realistic questions and detailed explanations.
2. Review All Answers, Especially Incorrect Ones
It’s tempting to just move on after completing a practice test, but reviewing your answers—especially the ones you got wrong—is essential. Go over each question and try to understand why you made the mistake. Was it a simple knowledge gap? Did you misinterpret the question? Did you run out of time? This review process will help you identify patterns of weakness and adjust your study focus accordingly.
Consider using platforms like UWorld to review your practice questions, as they provide comprehensive explanations and offer insights into the correct answers, helping you understand the reasoning behind them.
3. Time Yourself to Mimic the Real Exam Experience
One of the biggest challenges of the USMLE Step 1 is the time pressure. You have a limited amount of time to answer each question, and getting used to this pacing is vital. When taking your practice tests, always time yourself as you would on exam day. This will help you develop a sense of how long you can spend on each question and build your stamina for the 8-hour test day.
Tools like Google Timer or a dedicated stopwatch can help you stay on track during practice sessions.
4. Familiarize Yourself with the Exam Format
The more you familiarize yourself with the format and structure of the exam, the less intimidating it will feel. Practice tests allow you to get used to the types of questions you will encounter, whether it’s multiple-choice or integrated clinical scenarios. Additionally, understanding the computer-based format of the exam and how to navigate between questions will help reduce any surprises on test day.
The NBME’s official site provides free practice exams that simulate the real testing environment, which can be a great tool for this.
5. Reduce Anxiety and Build Confidence
One of the greatest benefits of regular practice tests is the reduction in test-day anxiety. As you take more practice exams, you’ll start to become more comfortable with the format and timing. This will help you build confidence and calm any nerves about the unknown. The more you practice under test-like conditions, the more you’ll feel prepared to face the actual exam with confidence.
Incorporating regular practice tests into your study plan is a key strategy for success. It not only helps you gauge your progress but also ensures you’re ready for the real exam, both mentally and physically. Stick to a regular schedule, review your results carefully, and use this valuable tool to maximize your preparation.
Stay Motivated and Positive
Staying motivated throughout the USMLE Step 1 preparation can be tough, especially when the study period stretches over weeks or months. However, maintaining a positive mindset is just as important as mastering the content. Here are actionable tips to help you stay on track, inspired, and resilient:
1. Celebrate Milestones
Breaking down your preparation into small, achievable goals not only makes studying less overwhelming but also gives you opportunities to celebrate progress along the way.
- Set Short-Term Milestones: For instance, completing a chapter of First Aid for the USMLE Step 1 or answering 100 UWorld questions in a week.
- Reward Yourself: After reaching these milestones, treat yourself to something enjoyable—a movie, a nice meal, or even just a relaxing walk. These rewards reinforce positive behavior and keep you looking forward to your next accomplishment.
- Track Your Wins: Use a visual tool like a progress chart, a planner, or an app like My Study Life to log your completed tasks. Watching your progress grow can boost your morale.
2. Find Accountability Partners
Studying alone can sometimes feel isolating, but having accountability partners can keep you on track and motivated.
- Form Study Groups: Collaborate with friends or peers preparing for Step 1. Platforms like Reddit’s USMLE forum or Student Doctor Network can help you connect with others.
- Check-In Regularly: Share your daily or weekly goals with a partner or mentor, and hold each other accountable. Knowing someone else is rooting for you (and counting on you) can push you to stay consistent.
- Join Online Communities: Being part of forums or Facebook groups where students share their struggles, tips, and victories can provide encouragement and a sense of camaraderie.
3. Visualize Your Goals
When the grind feels endless, remind yourself why you started. Visualizing your dream of becoming a physician can reignite your passion and drive.
- Create a Vision Board: Include pictures, quotes, and reminders of your ultimate goal—be it working in a top residency program, treating patients, or achieving a specific specialty. Place it somewhere you’ll see daily.
- Picture Your Future: Spend a few minutes each day imagining yourself as a successful doctor, helping patients and making a difference. Visualization isn’t just motivational—it can strengthen your commitment to the process.
- Set Daily Intentions: Start each day with a positive affirmation, like “Today, I will conquer this topic because it brings me one step closer to my dream.”
4. Embrace Setbacks as Part of the Process
It’s natural to hit roadblocks or experience burnout. Instead of letting setbacks discourage you, view them as part of the learning journey.
- Learn From Mistakes: If you struggle with certain practice questions or topics, see them as opportunities to grow rather than failures.
- Take Breaks: Allow yourself to pause and reset when you’re feeling overwhelmed. Even a 15-minute walk or mindfulness session using an app like Headspace can help you recharge.
- Focus on Progress, Not Perfection: Remember, you don’t need a perfect score—what matters is building a solid foundation for your future medical career.
5. Stay Inspired with Stories of Success
Hearing how others overcame challenges can motivate you to keep going.
- Watch Motivational Videos: Platforms like YouTube offer countless inspirational stories from students who succeeded in Step 1 despite hurdles.
- Read Success Stories: Explore blogs or forums where medical students share their experiences, strategies, and tips for conquering the exam.
- Talk to Mentors: Connecting with physicians who’ve been in your shoes can give you perspective and reassurance that the hard work pays off.
Staying motivated isn’t about being perfect every day—it’s about showing up consistently, finding joy in the process, and keeping your eyes on the prize. With these strategies, you’ll stay energized and focused, making your preparation journey a productive and rewarding experience.
Conclusion
Crafting an effective USMLE Step 1 preparation schedule is key to achieving this critical exam and taking the next step in your medical journey. By setting realistic goals, using high-quality resources, and adhering to a well-structured plan, you can navigate the vast syllabus with confidence. Remember, success doesn’t just come from long study hours but also from active learning, regular practice, and self-care. With dedication and the right strategy, you’ll not only excel but also make your preparation experience more manageable. Start today, stay consistent, and take one step closer to becoming a licensed physician.
FAQs
1. How much time should I dedicate to my USMLE Step 1 preparation schedule daily?
The amount of time varies based on individual circumstances, but most students dedicate 6–8 hours daily during their dedicated study period. It’s essential to prioritize quality over quantity by incorporating breaks, active learning methods, and focused review sessions.
2. What is the ideal duration for USMLE Step 1 preparation?
On average, students spend 3–6 months preparing for the USMLE Step 1, with 1–2 months reserved for an intensive, dedicated study phase. This timeline should be adjusted based on your baseline knowledge, availability, and personal learning speed.
3. How can I balance USMLE Step 1 preparation with other commitments, like clinical rotations?
Balancing commitments requires careful time management. If you’re juggling rotations, dedicate 2–4 focused hours daily and maximize weekends for intensive study. Use resources like Anki flashcards or mobile apps for quick reviews during downtime.
4. What should I include in my USMLE Step 1 preparation schedule?
A robust schedule should include the following:
- Content Review: Using high-yield resources like First Aid for the USMLE Step 1.
- Practice Questions: Daily practice with UWorld or Kaplan QBank.
- Flashcards: Reinforce memory with Anki decks.
- Active Learning: Teaching, summarizing, or quizzing yourself.
- Practice Tests: Full-length exams every 1–2 weeks to track progress and simulate test conditions.
5. Which topics should I prioritize in my USMLE Step 1 preparation?
Focus on high-yield subjects like pathology, physiology, pharmacology, and microbiology. These topics carry significant weight on the exam and are foundational for understanding clinical scenarios. Use your performance on NBME or practice exams to identify weak areas for targeted improvement.
6. How can I track my progress during USMLE Step 1 preparation?
Use a spreadsheet, planner, or study app to log completed chapters, practice questions, and test scores. Regularly review your progress to identify gaps and adjust your schedule as needed. Tools like Google Calendar or My Study Life can help you stay organized.
7. What should I do if I fall behind on my USMLE Step 1 preparation schedule?
Falling behind is normal, especially with such a rigorous schedule. Identify the root cause (e.g., unrealistic goals, distractions) and reassess your timeline. Prioritize high-yield topics and active learning strategies to make the most of your remaining time.
8. How many practice questions should I complete for USMLE Step 1 preparation?
Most students aim to complete at least 2,000–3,000 questions during their preparation. UWorld is the gold standard for practice questions, but supplementing with Kaplan or other question banks can reinforce weak areas.