Here is one of the most requested Med School 101 topics: top books to buy! I’ll attach an Amazon link for each, but I recommend waiting to buy the book until you start classes (unless stated otherwise)!!! A ton of second and third years may be selling books or have great deals to offer. Also, your library might offer an online access to some of these books. Let me know if you’ve come across some awesome books you think I should share!
General – First Aid
– Definitely buy this book! This is a staple for med students. It offers a condensed review of the most highly tested material of step 1 (that big board exam between second and third year). Lots of second years recommend annotating this book as you learn the material in class that way when you start to review for step, this book has everything you need.
Biochemistry – BRS Biochemistry
– This book offers multiple choice questions with explained answers at the end of each chapter. A great review source for NMBE shelf exams!
Physiology – BRS Physiology
– Probably the best BRS book out there! Material is condensed and nicely laid out in each chapter with questions at the end. This was my most used book besides First Aid.
Anatomy – Netter’s Anatomy Flash Cards
– I used these flash cards SO much. But I also received them from a second year for free! These are pretty pricey otherwise.
Anatomy – Lippincott’s Illustrated Q&A Review – Anatomy and Embryology
– I loved this book because it is literally just questions with question explanations in the back. I used this throughout the semester and especially for the NBME shelf exam at the end. There are pictures in question stems and every question is a clinical vignette which is really good practice for boards.
Anatomy – Gray’s Anatomy
– I only used this book a few times for really difficult topics but some of my classmates LOVED this book. It has awesome pictures and lengthy explanations that helped me understand tough points.
Neurobiology – Lippincott’s Illustrated Q&A Review – Neuroscience
– This is exactly like the other Lippincott, just tailored for neuro! Super helpful in shelf studying.
Physical Diagnosis – Bates’ Guide to Physical Exam
– I bought this book because I heard it was a staple! But I’ve heard there is a pocket version which may have been a little easier to navigate.
Well there ya have it! Those are the books that I used during my first year! Again, I’m always looking for suggestions, so please share if you have any book tips – especially for pharm, path, or micro (taking these this next year!!)
If you have any questions, comment below!
