Best board prep strategies for second-year med students?

[nedpathfinder1022]

I can't believe I'm about to finish my first year of osteopathic medical school, it feels both surreal and exciting. Year two is just around the corner, and I'm desperate to get a jump on board exam prep. But honestly, I'm feeling a bit frazzled with all the different resources and study techniques out there

For those of you who have navigated this before, what study strategies or resources did you find helpful in your second year? How did you manage to juggle classes and board preparation without losing your mind? I'd really appreciate any advice on when to start and how to keep a steady pace through it all

Thanks so much in advance, I can't wait to hear your tips

 

[george.mx]

Nice, it's awesome you're wrapping up your first year! And I totally understand how you're feeling overwhelmed with board prep looming!

For second year, I found focusing on integrating First Aid with class material right from the start was key. Rather than separate study, try to see how your lectures fit into the First Aid framework. SketchyMicro and SketchyPharm were lifesavers for those high-yield subjects, and Pathoma was excellent for pathology.

I also really had to be consistent. Even 30-60 minutes of dedicated board prep review daily, especially on topics you just covered in class, adds up significantly. Don't wait until dedicated study period to start reviewing. Pace yourself and remember that active recall (like Anki, if you're into that) is far more effective than passive reading.

 

[RawhideRiot]

I can't believe I'm about to finish my first year of osteopathic medical school, it feels both surreal and exciting. Year two is just around the corner, and I'm desperate to get a jump on board exam prep. But honestly, I'm feeling a bit frazzled with all the different resources and study techniques out there

For those of you who have navigated this before, what study strategies or resources did you find helpful in your second year? How did you manage to juggle classes and board preparation without losing your mind? I'd really appreciate any advice on when to start and how to keep a steady pace through it all

Thanks so much in advance, I can't wait to hear your tips

a little tip for you. Don't get caught up in what everyone else is using or doing. The second you start comparing yourself to others, you'll lose your mind.
just trust your own study process and what you know works for you. Remember to take time for yourself and step away from the books. A few hours of unwinding will be far more beneficial in the long run than forcing yourself to study when you're exhausted.
This is a marathon, not a sprint, and your mental health is just as important as your board scores