USMLE® Step 1

Master the foundations that power clinical thinking.

Step 1 stresses mechanisms, pathology, and physiology across organ systems. MDSteps USMLE Prep turns basic science into pattern recognition with an adaptive QBank, image‑rich items, and a readiness dashboard that tells you exactly where to focus.

Mechanism‑first items Path & micro images Readiness signals Study plan generator
Try a Step 1 block See the Step 1 blueprint
What Step 1 really tests
  • Integrating biochem, physiology, and pathology to explain findings.
  • Recognizing classic associations and look‑alikes under time pressure.
  • Applying mechanisms (not trivia) to management next steps.
  • Interpreting images: histology, micro, radiology, gross path.

How we create a solution that works

From first principles to fast decisions

Our adaptive engine keeps you in the “just hard enough” zone while resurfacing weak systems at spaced intervals. Items are built mechanism‑first with why‑right/why‑wrong rationales so you understand the how and the why, not just the letter.

  • Mechanism‑anchored vignettes linking basic science → clinical consequence.
  • Image‑heavy items (micro, pathology, radiology) with zoomable figures.
  • Look‑alike flags to prevent classic confusions (e.g., ATN vs. prerenal).
  • Spaced resurfacing of misses and low‑confidence topics.
How adaptation works
We model your accuracy & pacing → identify weak systems → nudge difficulty and interleave confounders → resurface at optimal intervals for durable recall.
Preview a Step 1 item Generate a study plan
Step 1 experience: adaptive QBank with image‑rich items and readiness analytics

What Step 1 entails

Discipline & system coverage

Foundational sciences
  • Biochemistry & genetics (enzymopathies, inheritance, pharmacogenomics)
  • Physiology (hemodynamics, pulmonary mechanics, renal handling)
  • Immunology & microbiology (hypersensitivity, vaccines, bugs & drugs)
  • Pathology (inflammation, neoplasia, classic histopath)
  • Pharmacology (MOA → adverse effects → antidotes)
Systems‑based integration
  • Cardio • Pulm • Renal • GI • Endo • Heme/Onc • MSK • Neuro/Psych • Repro
  • Image interpretation: histology, Gram stains, EM, radiology pearls
  • High‑yield equations & quick calcs embedded in items
  • NBME‑like pacing with mixed, confounder‑rich blocks

Features tuned for Step 1

Everything you need to turn mechanisms into mastery.

🧠
Mechanism‑first QBank
MOA → effect → adverse effects; tie pathways to patients.
🧫
Image‑rich items
Histology, micro plates, radiographs, gross path with callouts.
🧮
Quick‑calc widgets
Anion gap, A‑a gradient, renal clearance, half‑life, & more.
🔁
Smart resurfacing
Misses & low‑confidence topics auto‑reappear at spaced intervals.
🗂️
Missed‑item decks
Auto‑build flashcards with explanations & tags.
📈
Readiness analytics
Mastery by system/discipline, pacing trends, next‑best sessions.
🎯
Look‑alike pitfall flags
Differentiate classic confusions (e.g., UC vs. Crohn, IBD drugs).
📚
Concise reference
In‑app library for quick mechanism refreshers.
🗓️
AI study plan
Builds a calendar from your target date, hours/day, and weak areas.
View All Features
AI study plan generator for Step 1 with calendar sync

Know where to focus

AI‑generated Step 1 study plans

Tell us your date, hours/day, and comfort by system. We’ll build a plan that balances review and new learning, then sync it to your calendar. Plans adjust as your data changes.

  • Targets weak systems with interleaving for retention.
  • Mixes mechanism refreshers with exam‑style blocks.
  • Calendar sync (Google/iOS) with reminders.
Create my Step 1 plan

International Medical Graduates

Dedicated Resources fo IMGs

Centralize ECFMG/MyIntealth setup, document verification, eligibility planning, and Prometric scheduling—without the tab-sprawl.

Milestones Timeline
Typical flow
  1. Create MyIntealth / ECFMG Account
    Register, confirm identity, and review country-specific requirements.
  2. Submit Core Documents
    Passport identity page, medical diploma, and final transcript. Add name-change docs if applicable.
  3. Primary Source Verification
    MyIntealth verifies credentials with your medical school. Track status here.
  4. Exam Eligibility Window
    Select a window; we’ll add reminders and prep targets to your plan.
  5. Prometric Scheduling
    Choose a test site and date; seat-watch preferences are saved in your portal.
Requirements Checklist
3 required to enable portal
Identity & Credentials
  • Passport (identity page, valid & unexpired)
  • Medical diploma (final or provisional per policy)
  • Final transcript (with graduation date if available)
If applicable
  • Name-change document (e.g., marriage certificate)
  • Recent ID photo (per spec: background, size, date)
Primary source verification Eligibility window selected Prometric preferences saved
Quick Actions
Start IMG Support Learn More View requirements & resources
Resources
  • MyIntealth / ECFMG account overview
  • Document specs & naming tips
  • Eligibility windows & scheduling guidance

Step 1 — common questions

Is Step 1 still pass/fail? Should I care about % correct?
Yes, Step 1 is scored pass/fail, but your future Steps and rotations benefit from deep understanding. Our analytics emphasize mastery and pacing over vanity scores, while still tracking accuracy trends.
How many daily questions should I do?
Most students thrive on 40–80 mixed questions/day with targeted review. Your plan adapts based on time available and fatigue signals.
Do you include equations & quick calcs?
Yes—anion gap, A‑a gradient, renal clearance, half‑life, and more appear contextually with step‑by‑step solutions.
How are items different from Step 2/3?
Step 1 items are mechanism‑heavy with foundational science and image interpretation. Our Step‑specific banks tune stems, answer choices, and pitfalls accordingly.
Can I turn misses into flashcards?
Yes—missed items and low‑confidence marks auto‑populate a deck with explanations you can tag, filter, and export.
Will this work on my phone?
Absolutely. The app is mobile‑responsive; for long review sessions, we recommend a larger screen for figures.

Turn foundations into scoring power.

Practice Step 1 the way it’s tested—mechanism‑first items, image interpretation, and analytics that point to your next best step.

Start Your 3-Day Free Trial See Step‑specific features
Full Access • Free 3 Day Trial • No Credit Card
Data stays saved between plans
What you get
  • Mechanism‑first adaptive QBank
  • Image‑rich items with annotated figures
  • Readiness dashboard & study plan sync
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