Introduction:
USMLE Step 1 is a foundational exam testing your understanding of basic sciences relevant to clinical practice. Focusing on high-yield topics is key to scoring well.

Top Topics to Focus On:

  1. Cardiac Physiology & Pathology

  2. Renal Tubular Function & Disorders

  3. Neuroanatomy (e.g., spinal cord lesions)

  4. Pharmacology: Autonomics & Antibiotics

  5. Biochemistry Pathways (e.g., glycolysis, urea cycle)

  6. Microbiology: Bacteria and viruses, with mechanisms

  7. Immunology: Hypersensitivities, vaccines

  8. Pathology of neoplasia and inflammation

  9. Genetic diseases & inheritance patterns

  10. Biostatistics & Ethics

Conclusion:
Mastering these 10 topics not only builds a solid base but also boosts your confidence in tackling tricky questions. Stick to trusted resources and review them frequently.

PhD-qualified neurosurgeon specializing in brain tumor research, neuroimaging, and spine surgery. Founder of EJSMR, mentoring 2,000+ students globally in medical sciences.