All about Step 1
A 24-week repeatable weekly plan with dedicated blocks for content review, QBank, and weak-area revision.
Published 2025-11-01 · Updated 2026-08-31
Starting Position
Approximate Preparation
Strong foundation with consistent prior preparation
4–6 months
Average IMG studying alongside medical school
6–9 months
Significant foundational gaps or limited daily study time
9–12 months
Final dedicated preparation
6–10 weeks
For many Indian medical students, approximately 6–9 months of structured preparation, including around 6–8 weeks of dedicated revision, is a reasonable framework.
Phase 1: Foundation — 8 to 12 Weeks
Study primarily by organ system:
Review physiology.
Study pathology.
Integrate microbiology and pharmacology.
Review the corresponding First Aid section.
Complete relevant QBank questions.
Record recurring mistakes and weak areas.
Phase 2: Consolidation — 8 to 12 Weeks
Continue or complete UWorld.
Transition toward mixed questions.
Use timed blocks regularly.
Review incorrect and marked questions.
Revise First Aid and Pathoma.
Begin serious NBME assessments.
Target weaknesses identified by your assessments.
Phase 3: Dedicated Revision — 6 to 8 Weeks
Complete one or two timed question blocks.
Review the questions thoroughly.
Revise one weak system.
Review microbiology or pharmacology.
Review your error log.
Take periodic NBMEs.
Protect time for rest and recovery.