LAUSR

We also agree the results of our study do not capture important details about the potential impact of Step 1 timing on future medicine subject exam performance. At most schools, students still take Step 1 before the core clerkships (we stated as such in our Research Report). Moreover, the question remains if the timing of Step 1 represents consolidation of knowledge or perhaps increased focus on test-taking strategies and familiarity with test questions. Clerkship exams also require students to balance studying for the exam with clinical duties, and higher performance may reflect better ability to manage these dual responsibilities.