Strategies
- The term item is used to describe a test question in any format.
- Read each question carefully. It is important to understand what is being asked.
- Try to generate an answer and then look for it in the option list.
- Alternatively, read each option carefully, eliminating those that are clearly incorrect. Of the remaining options, select the one that is most correct.
- If unsure about an answer, it is better to guess since unanswered questions are automatically counted as wrong answers.
One-best-answer formats are used. Questions may stand alone or may be grouped together as a set if 2 to 3 questions. Some sets are considered sequential and function differently than other sets. It is important to study the descriptions in the USMLE Sample Test Questions section. Test questions present detailed clinical situations usually from the patient's perspective. The presentation may be supplemented by one or more pictorials or audio. Assessing the patient's situation in the context of his or her environment or family or clinical setting is an important element of many Step 3 questions.
During the time allotted to complete the test questions in a block, you may answer the questions in any order (excluding sequential question sets), review responses, and change answers. After exiting a block, no further review of questions or changing of answers within that block is possible.
A table of normal laboratory values for frequently ordered laboratory tests, including standard international conversions, will be available as an online reference when you take the examination.
IMPORTANT
- You must run the Step 3 interactive testing experience to become familiar with the test software prior to your test date.
- The tutorial provided at the beginning of the Step 3 examination has fewer screens and less detailed information than the Step 3 interactive testing experience.
- The Step 3 interactive testing experience includes items with associated audio findings. Become familiar with how these types of test items function before your test day.