Where do I start with USMLE Step 1 preparation?

Start with eligibility and logistics, then build a study plan. Most of the stress comes from doing these in the wrong order. 1. Check eligibility with ECFMG. IMGs apply for USMLE through ECFMG, not directly. Confirm that your medical school and graduation year meet current ECFMG requirements, including its accreditation rules for newer graduates, and create your ECFMG (IWS) account. Fees, deadlines and rules change, so use only ECFMG.org and USMLE.org for exact details. 2. Read the official USMLE content outline and the free sample questions on USMLE.org. They show the exam format and the disciplines and systems tested. 3. Take a baseline assessment, such as a free NBME or UWorld self-assessment, to see where you are. Do not worry if the score is low at this stage. 4. Choose a small set of core resources instead of many. Common choices are a question bank (UWorld is the most widely used), First Aid as a framework, Pathoma for pathology, and Anki or a similar spaced-repetition tool. Video resources like Sketchy or Boards and Beyond are optional. 5. Build a schedule. Many people plan several months of focused study, but the right length depends on your background, how recent your basic science courses were, and how many hours you can study each day. Combine content review with timed, random question blocks, and review every explanation. 6. Track progress with practice exams as you get closer, and book your test date only when your results are consistently stable. Step 1 is now pass/fail, so you need to pass but there is no numeric score. Step 2 CK, clinical experience, and other parts of the application therefore carry more weight in residency selection. Check NRMP and individual program websites for current expectations. If you tell us your graduation year and how many hours a week you can study, others here can help you plan. Please share your own experience with Step 1 preparation in the replies.