Preparing for MCCQE1 and NAC Exam
MCCQE1 Resources:
Studying for QE1 is largely the same as studying for STEP2 CK!!
Top Resources: UWORLD, CanadaQBank, Toronto Notes
Textbooks
Most of the content you'll be expected to know can be found in STEP 2CK textbooks. First Aid for the USMLE Step2CK is a decent reference textbook, although not as useful as its Step 1 counterpart. For Canadian specific content, NIMSA strongly recommends Toronto Notes. This is a fantastic textbook for its review material, but where it particularly shines is the ethics and legal section. This is Canadian SPECIFIC material that you'll be expected to know on test day!!
Anki (Flashcards)
Anki by itself is a free digital flashcard software built upon the concept of spaced repetition: the idea that flashcards should be reviewed more or less frequently based upon how well a person knows them. The Anking is a medical student/resident who combined multiple Step 1/2CK flashcard decks together to create the ultimate Step deck. A variety of links are provided, where he demonstrates how to set up Anki and start memorizing! There is also a MCCQE specific Anki deck called Canki.
Video Lectures
There are tons if video lecture resources online that all teach concepts in similar ways. Below are our recommendations for the MCCQE1 specifically, but again use the ones that work well for you!
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Online Med Ed - very simple videos that get right to the point. Management can be outdated at times, double check the comments/other sources.
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Boards and Beyond - Complete lecture package; hit or miss but can be great
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SketchyMicro - for visual learners, creates visual microbiology mnemonics - great!
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SketchyPharm - for visual learners, creates visual pharmacology mnemonics - great!
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SketchyPath - for visual learners, creates visual pharmacology mnemonics - not as good as others
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SketchyBiochem - new
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Divine Intervention podcast - While not video per se, he has hundreds of podcasts breaking down concepts. Great to listen to while exercising or on the go!
Question Banks
The final piece of your study routine! Question banks are the best way for you to test your knowledge, identify areas of weakness, and self-assess your readiness to take on the exam. It's strongly recommended to run through at least one Question Bank before taking the MCCQE1.
We strongly recommend using UWorld. Although this is for Step 2CK, this QBank will definitely prepare you for MCCQE1. Another potential QBank resource is the CanadaQBank, however it's more ideal to complete UWorld first.
On top of this, the MCC has their own practice test portal and preparatory products. These can be quite expensive but we strongly recommend you take at least one half/full length practice test. This is not necessarily for you to test your knowledge, but rather so that you get comfortable with the format of the exam. In particular, you'll need to get used to the CDM section and how it's marked.
NAC Resources:
Since the NAC is an OSCE exam, you ideally want to prepare yourself by practicing cases from start to finish. This means you'll be expected to:
1. Take a focused history;
2. Perform the relevant exam(s);
3. Create a differential, usually 3-5 options;
4. Determine relevant investigations (Bloodwork, Imaging, and Special Tests);
5. Come up with an initial/long-term management plan, depending on the case (This usually isn't too complex).
There are specific textbooks that are created with to prepare yourself for this kind of format. Master the NAC has been the go-to resource for a while, as it has plenty of cases and walks you through all the steps listed above. Other potential books you can use include A comprehensive guide to the NAC-OSCE and First Aid for the USMLE Step 2CS, although do note that these books may not include enough detail in their investigations/management.
In general, Irish students usually do quite well with the NAC as it's structured very similarly to an OSCE exam you'd take in UCD. Just be aware that the consultants marking the exams are very limited in how they are allowed to interact with you.