The United States Medical Licensing Examination or USLME is a medical exam for acquiring a medical license in the U.S. The test is broken into 3 distinct steps, each dealing with a separate set of skills. The purpose of the test is to measure a physician’s ability to apply concepts, medical principles, knowledge, and skills to determine their readiness for medical practice.
Step 3 of the test is the final exam in the series. It determines whether an applicant is able to apply their medical knowledge for the unsupervised practice of medicine in a professional setting.
The exam spans two days and contains some 500 multiple-choice questions. Computer-based case simulations are also presented to the student.
It is no doubt that all USMLE exams are pretty difficult. However, the final step requires an even vigorous study regimen. Thankfully, there are plenty of reputable resources for the exam to help you self-study before your exam. Below I have compiled a list of the 5 best USMLE Step 3 books.
In this Article
5. USMLE Step 3 Triage by Kevin Schwechten
USMLE Step 3 Triage is an extensive book covering the highest yield of facts and clinical tools tested on the exam. It emphasizes only the most frequently tested subjects and reviews all possible aspects of the test.
You will find a concise and easy-to-understand review of optimal preparation strategies and the relevant knowledge needed to excel at the test. There are a total of 18 chapters spanning some 400 pages. Each chapter explores a specific subject related to the test, such as neurology, psychiatry, endocrinology, infectious diseases, etc.
Moreover, you will also find valuable information on how to approach each topic and what strategies to use in order in order to score well.
Key Features:
- An extensive review of all the Step 3 topics
- Most exposure to subjects such as diabetes and hypertension, which tend to appear most frequently
- in-depth and focused review of what is really important
- Clinical tools and relevant facts are highlighted in each heading to ensure that clinical “pearls” aren’t missed
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4. Brochert’s Crush Step 3: The Ultimate USMLE Step 3 Review
The Brochert’s USMLE series of books are some of the most popular ones in the market. They are known to be comprehensive and rich in relevant knowledge. The Step 3 book contains the highest yield topics that are the most likely to appear on the exam.
This book is the perfect companion if you are short on time and need access to the most relevant information. It also features the 100 most common figures that illustrate important concepts, conditions, and imaging modalities.
Moreover, the book also contains practical advice on how to prepare best and what to expect. The writing is succinct and engages the reader with a friendly tone.
Key Features:
- Features tips on the computer-based case simulations to prepare you for essential elements of the exam.
- Organizes material logically and allows quick spot review using bulleted and numbered lists
- Presents updated case scenarios mirroring those on the Step 3 exam
- Addresses current practice with updated diagnosis and treatment guidelines.
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3. USMLE Step 3 Lecture Notes by Kaplan
Kaplan’s USMLE Step 3 lecture notes are a compilation of the most frequently tested concepts and topics. The book is organized neatly with an outline format for easy navigation. The book consists of 14 detailed chapters on the most critical issues such as Preventive medicine, infectious diseases, radiology, and so on.
There is a separate part dedicated to high-yield images of various concepts. Moreover, two individual parts of the book talk in detail about Neurology and psychiatry, which are the most important subjects when it comes to Step 3.
Key Features:
- More than 250 in-depth cases covering every discipline you’ll need on this section of the boards
- Covers the most commonly seen chief complaints
- Includes basic science correlates likely to be tested on the exam
- Organized in outline format for efficient study
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2. First Aid for the USMLE Step 3
This book is rightfully considered the bible of USMLE Step 3. The First aid series of books for the USMLE exam are highly sought after, and they do a great job of reviewing the most critical components of the test.
This book contains thousands of high-yield facts, mnemonics and full-color visual aids for a quick yet effective study. It is aimed towards busy residents who can review the various concepts with ease.
The language is concise and easy to follow. The book is packed with study-enhancing, vignette-style “flashcards” and full-color clinical images
Key Features:
- Packed with proven test-taking strategies based on the 2-day exam
- Concise, high-yield format highlights board-relevant information
- 100 cases prepare you for the case portion of the exam
- Renewed emphasis on integrated pathophysiology, plus diagnosis and management “next steps”
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1. Master the Boards USMLE Step 3
Written by Conrad Fischer, MD, Master the Boards, remains the most popular USMLE Step 3 book on the market. This book is a collection of the most highly tested concepts and emphasizes high-recall strategies.
The book is written in a concise manner and only addresses concepts that are vital to the test. All information is presented neatly with color images throughout the book. Moreover, you will find a plethora of practical advice and tips on how to approach the different questions on the test.
The book is divided into 15 parts, with the first part containing 12 distinct chapters. Each chapter explores an essential subject, whereas the remaining parts discuss broader concepts.
Key Features:
- Exam-like focus on best initial diagnostic test, most accurate test, and most likely diagnosis
- The most clinically current high-yield review
- Step-by-step approach to diagnosis and management, and concise patient safety notes
- Hundreds of full-color diagnostic images
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