It’s important to do as much as you can to prepare for standardized tests, licensing exams and aptitude tests. Here are three ways you can effectively prepare for the US Medical Licensing Exam (USMLE).

1. In-person Prep Classes

The most traditional way you can prepare for the USMLE is to sign up for and attend a prep class. Most of these classes will be held in person. You may be able to find them on school or hospital campuses. Prep classes can supply you with textbooks, practice materials, insight into potential exam content and the ability to collaborate with others preparing to take the test.

2. Online Prep Courses

If you want to take a class but don’t want to go in person or can’t find a class near you, you should be able to find a USMLE prep course online. Online courses will offer the same benefits and resources as you would find at an in-person course. You may be able to find flexible courses that you can take at your own pace or classes that are scheduled and collaborative. Some courses may send you physical books and papers while others will allow you to access digital preparation material.

3. Practice Tests

If you choose to prepare on your own, you can access material such as practice tests. Taking practice tests allows you to time yourself, pinpoint areas of strength and weakness, and create a study plan that will benefit you most. Many practice tests will provide additional information or breakdowns of various topics to help you strengthen your problem areas more effectively.

Ultimately, the method or methods you use to prepare for the USMLE will depend on which you feel most comfortable with and which you think will benefit you the most. It’s usually a good idea to utilize more than one method.