{"id":1226,"date":"2019-08-26T11:42:54","date_gmt":"2019-08-26T16:42:54","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.kaptest.com\/blog\/prep\/?p=1226"},"modified":"2020-09-11T20:41:14","modified_gmt":"2020-09-11T20:41:14","slug":"usmle-step-1-how-to-pick-the-best-answers","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/wpapp.kaptest.com\/study\/usmle\/usmle-step-1-how-to-pick-the-best-answers\/","title":{"rendered":"USMLE Step 1 Strategy: How to Pick the Best Answers"},"content":{"rendered":"

The USMLE is a very unique test with\u00a0three very different Steps.\u00a0Step 1\u00a0features the traditional multiple choice format, but\u00a0has no shortage of tricky questions<\/a> and answers. However, if you are prepared and know the\u00a0“tricks of the trade” the test makers use, you will be able to identify and pick the best answers to USMLE Step 1 questions.
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One Best Choice Answers<\/h3>
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\nStep 1 includes only multiple-choice questions with one best answer. This is the traditional, most frequently used multiple-choice format, except that USMLE questions can have up to 11 answer choices. USMLE test items consist of a statement or question followed by 3 to 11 response options arranged in alphabetical or logical order. Some of the questions require interpretation of graphic or pictorial<\/a> materials. The response options for all questions are lettered (A, B, C, D, E, etc.). Your job is to select the best answer to the question. Other options may be partially correct, but there is only one best answer.
\nThe most important thing to remember is that these questions require you to select not only a good answer, but the best answer from the choices given. One answer is always better than the others. Therefore, it is critical that you read through all of the options before making your choice. Remember, you don\u2019t get any points for selecting the second best answer. If an answer choice seems partially correct, then it is entirely wrong.
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Understanding Distractors<\/h3>
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\nTo deal most effectively with exam questions, you need to have some understanding of how the questions are constructed. Getting a question correct means selecting the best answer. Incorrect options are called “distractors.” Their purpose is to distract; that is, to get you to pick them rather than the best answer. Each distractor will be selected by some examinees, or it would not be included as an option. Every option fools somebody. Your job is to not be misled.
\nIn general, distractors will seem plausible and few will stand out as obviously incorrect. Distractors may be partially right answers but not the best answer. Common misconceptions, incomplete knowledge, and faulty reasoning will cause you to select a distractor.
\nThe test maker tells his or her question writers that their distractors must follow these five rules:
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