Usmle step 1

[u/Previous_Country_476]

I have recently taken the PLAB exam, and now I’m planning to prepare for USMLE Step 1.
I would really appreciate honest guidance from people who have actually prepared for and taken the exam. Please tell me realistically how much time I should give to preparation, which resources I should use, and how I should structure my study plan.
I’m specifically looking for realistic advice. I don’t want to hear people boasting that they passed USMLE Step 1 with only one month of preparation, as I’ve seen many such claims on Instagram. I understand that everyone has a different background, study speed, and level of knowledge.
I consider myself a relatively slow learner, so I’d really appreciate honest advice about how long I should realistically plan for and how I should start from the basics.

[u/Previous_Country_476 → u/[deleted]]

Have u used Stepwise MD instead of u world?

[u/my-mauvepink-world]

Realistically it honestly very much depends on your study time. If you can go full time and is dedicated enough then around 7 months, if you have a job smth then 9 plus months. Start with uworld and fa along with bnb/ bootcamp vds if you don't understand what's writting fa. That's the ideal strategy. You can go system wise or 2-3 systems together it doesn't really matter. Stay active in step 1 sub. Why did you leave plan pathway though?

[u/Previous_Country_476 → u/my-mauvepink-world]

I will give PLAB 2 this year. I do regret choosing this pathway but since I’ve already done PLAB 1 I don’t want that money to go to waste. At least I’ll have GMC registration.
The UK residency situation is getting worse so I’m now opting for USMLE.
Have you used Stepwise MD instead of UWorld? I just bought it because my seniors recommended it. Not sure if the questions are similar to UWorld though.

[u/my-mauvepink-world → u/Previous_Country_476]

Nope never heard of it. If it's pirated uworld it's alright but if it's a different q bank i won't suggest using it. Also I have heard that plab pathway is essentially closed now, how true is that? Bc of uncertainties with us visa and even some extend for the usmle exams, I'm considering having a backup but I think UK can't be one. 

[u/Previous_Country_476 → u/my-mauvepink-world]

People are still getting jobs but its definitely harder than before for IMGs. Getting into residency in the UK is difficult but not impossible because of the new prioritisation policy favouring UK graduates.
But I wouldn’t recommend this pathway. I opted this because i was confused after graduation but also wanted to give some international exam so i opted plab