Again a dreaded date is approaching for all general practitioners with aspirations to become specialists. We are just over a month away from National Examination of Applicants for Medical Residencies (ENARM) 2021. Between nervousness and optimism it is time to give the final reviews for the big day. It does not matter if it is the first time you present it or if you have already done it on previous occasions. What you should never lose is your confidence in yourself.
Now, one aspect that you should consider is that this year’s edition presents several novelties. One of the main ones is that now the specialty is chosen after taking the exam and not before. Although regardless of that aspect, you must strive to obtain the highest score to ensure your place.
In that sense, in reality there is no stipulated minimum score and less if one considers what happened in 2020. The Family Medicine specialty obtained the lowest rating with 21,333 and in general there was a decrease in the average of the 27 available options.
While Internal Medicine was located at the opposite point with 80,667. That is why regardless of the specialty you plan to choose, you should always aim for the highest. That is why if you get an overall score of 80 you are practically guaranteed your place in any option. To achieve this we share some basic tips that you should apply.
Long and arduous preparation
First of all, you must take into account that the ENARM requires months of preparation. That is why you cannot leave for the last months what you should have learned during all the years of the degree. Ideally, at least since January you have started your daily reviews. In this way you ensure that you cover the entire agenda and you will arrive at the exam with fresh knowledge.
Don’t abuse by studying for long hours at a time
Despite the above, you should not make the mistake of falling into the opposite extreme. Some think that the ideal is to study for long periods of time every day, but it is not a recommended option. If you do it, it is most likely that you suffer from severe emotional exhaustion that will lead to stress.
Ideally, spend between two and four hours a day on your reviews. During that period, rest at least 10 minutes every hour to avoid saturating your mind. Remember to also continue with your other tasks and allocate the time for other leisure activities.
Study from various sources
Many young people opt for study courses in preparation for ENARM. There is a wide variety to choose But regardless of whether it is your case, try to add another option as well. You can also go to your notes from the university or simply review the Clinical Practice Guidelines yourself, which are the official documents on which the exam is based.
Use simulators to see your performance
In addition to studying, it is also convenient that you periodically use the simulators. The objective is to measure how your knowledge is, and the ideal is that you always increase your score because it would be a sign that you are improving. They also help you to prepare for the most important day you are going to face.
Relax for the last few days
When the ENARM date is between one and two weeks away, the best thing you can do is forget about the test and scatter your mind. It is not recommended to study during these last days because it can be counterproductive. Better try to focus on other things while the most important day of your life arrives.