Comparing Kaplan Videos from 2010 and 2014

For medical students preparing for the USMLE Step 1 exam, choosing the right resources can make a significant difference in performance. A common question among students is which version of Kaplan videos is more effective—those from 2010 or 2014. This article aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the effectiveness of these different versions of Kaplan videos for various subjects, based on feedback from medical students who have utilized both resources.

Subject-Specific Analysis

The effectiveness of Kaplan videos can vary from one subject to another. Below is a breakdown of which videos from which year may be better for specific subjects:

Physiology (Physio): 2014 videos are considered better than the 2010 ones for comprehensiveness and up-to-date information. Pathology (Patho): 2014 videos are also preferred for their detailed explanations. Pharmacology (Pharma): 2010 videos are generally considered more helpful here, with clearer presentations. Microbiology (Micro): Both 2010 and 2014 videos are considered equally effective. Immunology (Immuno): Both years' videos are equally good, with no significant differences noted. Anatomy (Gross): 2010 and 2014 videos are considered equally effective, with both providing good visual aids. Neuroanatomy: 2014 videos are better for their clarity and up-to-date content. Biochemistry (Biochem): Both 2010 and 2014 videos are considered equally effective. Behavioral Science and Biostatistics: 2010 videos are seen as better, especially for lecture-based content, although the 2010 lectures are based on the outdated DSM-IV.

General Recommendations

Given the analysis above, it's important to recognize that the choice of videos is largely contextual. Here are some general recommendations from experienced students:

Specific Subjects: Effective video usage should be prioritized for subjects like genetics and DNA aspects of biochemistry, and ANS (autonomic nervous system) in pharmacology. These areas are where watching videos can be most beneficial. General Approach: For the bulk of Step 1 preparation, focus primarily on books. It is recommended to aim to finish key books in two months to ensure retention and to make room for UWorld and First Aid. Efficiency: Spending too much time on videos may lead to forgetting previously studied material. One hour of reading is often more effective than an hour of video watching.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the choice between 2010 and 2014 Kaplan videos depends on the specific subject and individual learning style. For subjects like Physiology, Pathology, and Pharmacology, 2014 videos are generally considered more effective. However, for some subjects like Genetics and certain aspects of Biochemistry, 2010 videos may be more beneficial. Regardless of the year, the primary recommendation remains to leverage books as the main resource, supplemented with videos where necessary.

Faqs

Q1: Are Kaplan videos from 2010 still a good resource for medical students in 2023?

A1: Yes, depending on the subject, 2010 videos can still be a valuable resource. They are particularly good for subjects where they provide clearer presentations or explanations.

Q2: How much time should I spend on watching Kaplan videos?

A2: Spending significant time on videos is not recommended. Focus on books first, maybe two months, and then transition to supplementary materials like UWorld and First Aid.

Q3: Are 2014 Kaplan videos better than 2010 for all subjects?

A3: No, 2014 videos are not uniformly better than 2010 videos across all subjects. Some areas, such as anatomy, find both equally effective.