Best USMLE books 2023 | Take The Best Preparation

best usmle books

The United States Medical Licensing Examination is a three-step examination for medical licensure in the United States and is sponsored by the Federation of State Medical Boards and the National Board of Medical Examiners.

The USMLE assesses a physician's ability to apply knowledge, concepts, and principles, and to demonstrate fundamental patient-centred skills, that are important in health and disease and that constitute the basis of safe and effective patient care. By reading these best USMLE books 2023 you will boost up your preparation for the USMLE exam.


First Aid for the USMLE Step 1 2021, Thirty First Edition
Author: Le, Tao
Published at: 11/01/2021
ISBN: 126046752X

First Aid™ remains the most trusted name in USMLE books 2021® review―just ask any medical student!

  • A complete framework for USMLE Step 1 preparation, annually updated with crowdsourced contributions from thousands of students
  • Updated exam preparation advice for USMLE Step 1 pass/fail, Step 1 blueprint changes, and COVID-19 impacts
  • The new section on communication skills reflects the latest Step 1 content
  • New focus on diversity, equity and inclusion incorporates race and ethnic considerations, as well as gender-neutral terminology
  • Nearly 1,400 must-know topics with mnemonics to focus your study
  • 1,200+ colour photos and illustration―170+ new or revised―help you visualize processes, disorders, and clinic findings
  • Rapid Review section for efficient last-minute preparation
  • Bonus material and real-time updates exclusively at FirstAidTeam.com


Master the Boards USMLE Step 2 CK 6th Ed.
Author: Fischer MD, Conrad
Published at: 05/01/2021
ISBN: 1506254586

From USMLE expert Dr Conrad Fischer, Master the Boards USMLE Step 2 CK delivers the targeted review you need to excel on the exam and match into the residency program of the united states medical licensing examination you want.

  • Exam-like focus, using the Fischer Method: best initial test, most accurate test, and a most likely diagnosis
  • A step-by-step approach to patient care
  • Hundreds of full-colour diagnostic images
  • Flow charts, decision trees, and comparison tables condense broad topics at a glance
  • Expert tips for recognizing incorrect answers  


USMLE Step 3 Lecture Notes 2021-2022 (USMLE Prep)
Author: Kaplan Medical
Published at: 06/04/2021
ISBN: 1506255256

From the same team of instructors who wrote Kaplan Medical’s USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK Lecture Notes.

  • More than 250 in-depth cases covering every discipline you'll need on this section of the boards
  • Organized in outline format for efficient study
  • Covers the most commonly seen chief complaints
  • Includes basic science correlates likely to be tested on the exam, patient management from Kaplan’s experts, patient safety, and population health
  • This collection of books assumes mastery of both Step 1 pre-clinical discipline-based and Step 2 CK


USMLE Step 2 CK Lecture Notes 2021: 5-book set
Author: Kaplan Medical
Published at: 01/09/2020
ISBN: 150626137X

The only set on the market that offers a comprehensive yet concise review of USMLE Step 2 CK exam topics. Includes:

  • Internal Medicine
  • Paediatrics
  • Obstetrics/Gynecology
  • Surgery
  • Psychiatry/Epidemiology/Patient Safety

The best review from the same team that releases USMLE Step 1 Lecture Notes

  • Revised every year by Kaplan’s all-star, expert faculty
  • 450+ colour images similar to those on the exam
  • Structured format calling out high-yield topics in the context
  • Bridges between specialities and basic science


USMLE Step 1 Made Ridiculously Simple
Author: Andreas Carl
Published at: 01/01/2020
ISBN: 1935660225

Written in chart format, USMLE Step 1 MRS categorically arranges the most high-yield basic science facts to make it very easy to review all USMLE Step 1 subjects just days before the exam! The arrangement of the basic scientific facts in these charts is logically set up to be built upon in a brief clinical context rather than just a random collection of materials or long-winded vignettes. The chart format provides the maximum amount of information with the minimum amount of words by concentrating on key associations to help you improve your performance in multiple-choice situations. Studying in such a systematic fashion lets you avoid the high-yield trap of what to study the week or two before the test. You've done all the hard studying for the exam, now let USMLE Step 1 Made Ridiculously Simple give you the confidence to tie it all together as your last-minute memory aid for the big day!



USMLE Step 1 Lecture Notes 2021: 7-Book Set
Author: Kaplan Medical
Published at: 01/12/2020
ISBN: 1506259340

The Best Review

  • 2,000 pages covering every discipline you'll need on this section of the boards
  • Full-colour diagrams and charts for better comprehension and retention
  • Clinical correlations and bridges between disciplines highlighted throughout
  • Chapter summary study guides at the end of every chapter for easier review

Up-To-Date Content

  • Clinical updates included in all 7 volumes to align with recent changes
  • Organized in outline format with high-yield summary boxes for efficient study


Master the Boards USMLE Step 3
Author: Fischer, Conrad
Published at: 07/01/2020
ISBN: 1506254454

Master the Boards USMLE Step 3 helps you identify highly tested concepts, sharpen recall, and recognize the most likely answer on the exam. With expert tips, up-to-date content, and high-yield review, this full-colour book will ensure there are no surprises on test day. The Best Review

  • Exam-like focus on best initial diagnostic test, most accurate test, and a most likely diagnosis
  • The most clinically current high-yield review
  • A step-by-step approach to diagnosis and management, and concise patient safety notes
  • Hundreds of full-colour diagnostic images
  • Practical tips for the CCS (Computer-based Case Simulations)

Expert Guidance for united states medical licensing examination

  • Avoid surprises on test day with exclusive tips and targeted review from USMLE expert Conrad Fischer, MD.
  • We invented test prep—Kaplan (www.kaptest.com) has been helping students for 80 years. Our proven strategies have helped legions of students achieve their dreams.


Dermatology - Medical School Crash Course
Author: Content Team, AudioLearn Medical
Published at: 07/02/2020
ISBN: B084DGQ9B2

Written by experts and authorities in the field and professionally narrated for easy listening, this crash course is a valuable tool both during school and when preparing for the USMLE, or if you're simply interested in the subject of dermatology.

The audio is focused and high-yield, covering the most important topics you might expect to learn in a typical medical school dermatology course. Included are both capsule and detailed explanations of critical issues and topics you must know to master dermatology. The material is accurate, up to date, and broken down into bite-sized sections. There is a Q& A and a key takeaways section following each topic to review questions commonly tested and drive home key points.

In this course:

  • Structure and function of skin structures.
  • Pigmentation diseases of the skin.
  • Bullous diseases of the skin. Skin cancers.
  • Acne and related conditions.
  • Papulosquamous and eczematous diseases.
  • Granulomatous diseases of the skin.
  • Connective tissue diseases of the skin.
  • Cutaneous manifestations of systemic diseases.
  • Infections of the skin.
  • Benign skin lesions.


USMLE Step 1 Qbook
Author: Kaplan Medical
Published at: 01/10/2019
ISBN: 1506250262

The Best Review

  • 850 exam-like practice questions you won't find anywhere else
  • Explanations for each correct and incorrect answer choice
  • 17 high-yield, exam-relevant practice sets in Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Microbiology/Immunology, Pathology/Pathophysiology, Pharmacology, and Behavioral Science/Biostatistics
  • Test-taking strategies for every question type
  • Study techniques to maximize your limited preparation time


First Aid Q&A for the USMLE Step 1, Third Edition (First Aid USMLE)
Author: Tao Le,James A. Feinstein,Mark W. Ball,Annie Dude,Rebecca L. Hoffman,Mark Robert Jensen,Kimberly Kallianos,Cesar Raudel Padilla,Lauren Rothkopf,James Yeh
Published at: 14/02/2012
ISBN: 0071744029

If you are looking for a comprehensive resource that will help you the most to prepare yourself for the USMLE test then this book USMLE STEP 1 can be the best option for you. It has over 1000 questions about United States Medical Licensing Examination.

This USMLE book is written is a Q&A style that is suitable for both long term and short term preparation. It is easy to read, there are a wide variety of topics and amazing explanation for correct and incorrect answers with 350 of high-resolution images.

In a word, your preparation for taking the first test in USMLE is incomplete without this book.

Contents of this book:

  • General Principles
  • Behavioral Science
  • Biochemistry
  • Microbiology
  • Immunology, pathology, and pharmacology
  • Organ System
  • Cardiovascular
  • Hematology
  • Neurology
  • Renal, reproductive and respiratory



Master the Boards USMLE Step 3
Author: Conrad Fischer MD
Published at: 03/07/2018
ISBN: 1506235875

MASTER THE BOARDS STEP 3 is targeted for the part 3 test of USMLE examination. If you have already revised part 1 and part 2 test then this book is for you to pass the 3rd test.

This USMLE book focuses upon the highly tested concepts, provide suggestions for the exam with the questions most likely to be placed on the test. With tips and tricks from the experts and up to date contents, this book provides a guarantee for you to pass the 3rd examination.

It also has an online companion at www.kaptest.com where you can easily test your skills and measure your level.

Contents of this book:

  • Biostatistics and Epidemiology
  • Vast introduction on Internal Medicine
  • Cardiology
  • Various kinds of diseases
  • Allergy and Immunology
  • Hematology
  • Neurology
  • Preventive medicine
  • Surgery
  • Pediatrics
  • Gynecology
  • Radiology
  • Emergency medicine and many more


First Aid for the USMLE Step 1 2017
Author: Tao Le,Vikas Bhushan,Matthew Sochat,Yash Chavda
Published at: 02/01/2017
ISBN: 1259837637

FIRST AID FOR THE USMLE STEP 1 2017 is considered as a Med Student Bible. This highly praised book is a perfect study guide when preparing for the USMLE Step 1 examination.

It has over 1300 must-know facts and mnemonics which provides a complete framework for your test preparation. This is an amazing resource and covers almost all the high yield information that you need to know for step 1.

It has everything a medical student must know. It points out what you really need to pass the examination and focuses on them. Get this amazing resource and place yourselves in the top list of USMLE 1st step exams.

Contents of this book:

  • Basic Introduction on USMLE step 1
  • Timeline and Study Materials
  • Important test-taking strategies
  • A brief discussion on High yield organ systems
  • Biochemistry
  • Immunology
  • Hematology and Oncology
  • Neurology and special senses
  • Cell Biology and histology
  • Top-rated review resources
  • Question banks and many more.


First Aid for the USMLE Step 1 2018, 28th Edition
Author: Tao Le,Vikas Bhushan,Matthew Sochat,Yash Chavda,Andrew Zureick
Published at: 21/12/2017
ISBN: 1260116123

FIRST AID FOR THE USMLE STEP 1 2018 is the updated version of its predecessor. This book is one of the most reviewed study material for taking part in the USMLE Step 1 examination.

This book has some awesome new updates which make it more versatile and resourceful. There are updates to a large number of images and tables of drugs and medicines. This book summarizes the whole syllabus and makes an easy way to get prepared for the examination.

The updated edition has a more efficient guide to exam preparation with bonus material and real-time updates exclusively at FirstAidTeam.com. This book is probably the single highest-yield book you can buy as a medical student.

Contents of this book:

  • Basic introduction
  • Test-taking strategies
  • Clinical vignette strategies
  • Highly yield general principles
  • Public health sciences
  • Highly yield organ systems
  • Top-rated review resources
  • Anatomy, embryology, and neuroscience
  • Behavioral science and many more



First Aid for the USMLE Step 1 2019,  Twenty-ninth edition
Author: Tao Le,Vikas Bhushan
Published at: 21/12/2018
ISBN: 1260143678

FIRST AID FOR THE USMLE STEP 1 2020 is the latest update of one of the greatest and most useful books for medical students and for taking preparation for USMLE Step 1.

This book is updated with the most recent resources and changes and is based on the latest medical technologies that are important for examination. It has a brief inspection which reveals the addition of a huge number of new diagrams and pictures which improve the clarity of many, many concepts.

Comparing to the 2018 edition there are lots of improvements. There are new mnemonics, figures, tables, and color, etc. Add this updated edition in your collection today.

Updated Contents:

  • Mutations in DNA
  • Protein synthesis
  • Ethanol metabolism
  • HIV diagnosis algorithm
  • Some additions about the immunology of cancer
  • Hematology and oncology and many more.


Boards Ready, USMLE Step 1, Step 2, Step 3
Author: MD Tricia A. Derges
Published at: 01/01/2018
ISBN: 099917200X

BOARDS READY, USMLE Step1, Step2, Step3 is an all in one book for preparing for the USMLE step 1, 2 and 3 tests. Dr. Tricia A. Derge's amazing writing style and teaching method will amaze you. This book covers all the topics of Steps 1, 2 and 3. It will be your perfect replacement for multiple books.

It provides you the whole overview of USMLE tests. It will serve you from the first day of medical school to the Step 3 exam. It is also a valuable resource to the physician during practice. Again this book is based on the high yield subjects and topics that are very important for tests.

It organizes and simplifies difficult material in such a way that it becomes manageable, understandable, highly visual and easy to remember. Praised by a wide bunch of students, get yourself this phenomenal resource for USMLE tests.



Dermatology for the USMLE
Author: Alvaro J. Ramos MD
Published at: 15/08/2016
ISBN: 0692525297

DERMATOLOGY FOR THE USMLE is a dermatology review book with up to date information which will help you the most to prepare for USMLE. It has over 450 full-color and vibrant images.

It has accurate information and excellent images, which will help you visualize and have a better understanding of many diseases. This book is mainly focused on the terms you really need to know for the boards. In-depth reviews and details with key images made this book more easy to follow.

This easy-to-understand, fully updated book is useful for medical students, residents, family physicians, nurse practitioners, and medical assistants. Improve your USMLE scores with this amazing resource.

Contents of this book:

  • Basic of Dermatology
  • Autoimmune skin disorders
  • Blistering skin disorders
  • Hair disorders
  • Drug reactions
  • Inflammatory disorders of the skin
  • Selected bacterial infections
  • Selected viral infections
  • Geriatric skin disorders and many more


Step-Up to USMLE Step 2 CK (Step-Up Series)
Author: Dr. Brian Jenkins,Michael McInnis,Chris Lewis
Published at: 04/11/2015
ISBN: 149630974X

STEP-UP to USMLE STEP 2 CK is the updated and revised and the newly introduced fourth edition of this series. It provides essential information on high yield topics important for the USMLE exam.

It also has full-color images and quick hits that provide essential information in an easy to remember manner. This book is suitable for medical students, physician assistants, and nurse practitioner programs. It has easy to remember mnemonics and algorithms with effective clinical reasoning, particularly for similar complaints.

300 USMLE-style questions, included with the eBook, feature-complete explanations to help you gain confidence for the exam.

Contents of this book:

  • Cardiovascular Disorders
  • Pulmonary Disorders
  • Gastrointestinal Disorders
  • Endocrine Disorders
  • Hematology and Oncology
  • Selected topics in emergency medicine, critical care, and surgery
  • Dermatology
  • Pediatrics Disorders
  • Epidemiology and Ethics


First Aid Cases for the USMLE Step 1, Fourth Edition
Author: Tao Le
Published at: 26/11/2018
ISBN: 1260143139

FIRST AID CASES FOR THE USMLE STEP 1 is a well-organized resource for USMLE step 1. This book is colorful and very well structured. The topics are excellently explained. There is an amazing overview of clinical cases that are followed by every kind of question that you might encounter in the examination.

Contents of this book:

  • 350 updated cases prepare you to anticipate commonly tested concepts on the USMLE® Step 1
  • Active learning questions and answers reinforce important concepts
  • A NEW full-color design bolstered by 300+ concept-clarifying clinical images and illustrations
  • Concise yet complete with relevant pathophysiology explanations
  • Organization mirrors First Aid for the USMLE Step 1 for side-by-side study




First Aid for the USMLE Step 2 CK, Tenth Edition
Author: Le, Tao
Published at: 15/10/2018
ISBN: 126044029X

The format is nice in that for each disease it lists a small explanation of path/Phys, then proceeds with history/presentation, diagnostic tools and treatment/management. I have been using it along with UWorld and so far it has had most of the information to answer the questions. In fact, some of the diseases seem to have very very similar verbiage to the explanations in UWorld, which makes me wonder if the writers got smart and started using UWorld to help organize the information in First Aid.



Crush Step 1: The Ultimate USMLE Step 1 Review
Author: O'Connell MD, Theodore X.
Published at: 30/11/2017
ISBN: 0323481639

Written and reviewed by students, residents, and experts, and led by bestselling review author Dr Ted O’Connell, Crush Step 1, 2nd Edition, is the perfect review resource you need to score high on this high-stakes exam. This comprehensive, focused resource is the most effective review tool available for truly understanding the material on which you’ll be tested.

  • Up-to-date, easy-to-read, high-yield coverage of all the material tested on the exam.
  • Numerous colour images, helpful lists, and quick-reference tables help students retain and recall information quickly.
  • Review questions for each chapter test student mastery of core knowledge and aid retention of high-yield facts. Test prep strategies help readers identify and understand question stems rather than memorizing buzz words.
  • new review board of current students and residents, as well as authors who scored within the 99th percentile on the USMLE Step 1, ensures relevance and accuracy.
  • Student Consult™ eBook version included with purchase. This enhanced eBook experience allows you to search all of the text, figures, references and animations, designed to produce a more rounded learning experience.


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