Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Achievement Tests, or COMATs, are critical exams that osteopathic medical students typically take during their third year, following their core rotations. These 2.5-hour exams function as mini-boards, assessing the clinical application of medical knowledge across various specialties. Despite their focused nature, the breadth of material can be extensive. Transitioning from professor-developed exams in the pre-clinical years to these national exams posed a significant challenge for me, as did balancing a demanding clinical schedule with exam preparation.
Navigating the Transition
The shift from structured pre-clinical coursework to the self-directed study required for COMATs can be daunting. Without specific lectures to guide you, determining what to focus on can be overwhelming. Additionally, adapting to the busy clinical environment, where long hours and physical exhaustion are common, complicates the development of an effective study plan.
Study Strategies
Prioritize Practice Questions
I cannot emphasize the importance of practice questions enough. In my experience, dedicating the majority of my study time to practicing questions was invaluable. My primary tip is to “do more practice questions.”
I generally completed the entire UWorld question bank for the specific specialty and, during the last week or a few days before the exam, focused on COMQUEST specialty questions to familiarize myself with more NBOME-styled questions. This approach worked well for me, but feel free to use other question banks if you prefer.
Embrace the concept of "try, try, try again." Don’t fear getting practice questions wrong; that’s how you learn. Consistent practice helps reinforce knowledge and improve test-taking skills.
Thoughtful Review
Simply answering practice questions is not enough; you must also engage in a thoughtful review of each question and its answer choices. For each question, ensure you understand:
- Why the Correct Answer is Correct: Comprehend the reasoning behind the right answer to reinforce your understanding of the concept.
- Why the Wrong Answers are Incorrect: Analyze why other options are incorrect. This helps in recognizing and avoiding common pitfalls and misconceptions.
- When Wrong Answers Might Be Correct: Understand under what circumstances the incorrect answers could be valid. This deeper insight prepares you to think critically and apply knowledge appropriately in different scenarios.
Design a Study Plan
Structured Approach
Craft a study schedule that effectively balances your clinical responsibilities with exam preparation. Allocate specific times for focused study and practice. Set a reasonable daily target for practice questions; personally, I found starting with around 40 questions per day manageable at the beginning of each rotation. As I progressed, I gradually increased this number based on how my clinical responsibilities influenced my available study time.
Catch-Up Days
Incorporate catch-up days into your study plan. These buffer days are crucial, as unexpected long hours at the hospital can impact your study time. By scheduling these days, you can accommodate unforeseen changes in your schedule, ensuring you stay on track and avoid falling behind.
Focus on Weak Areas
Regularly assess your strengths and weaknesses to tailor your study sessions effectively. While extensive passive content review may not be the most efficient, dedicating time to topics where you frequently struggle or get questions wrong can help address specific gaps in your knowledge. Targeted review of these areas enhances your understanding and improves overall performance.
Self-Care and Balance: Avoid Burnout
Rest and Recharge
Combining clinical work with exam prep can be draining. Prioritize self-care by ensuring you get adequate rest and allowing yourself time to engage in activities you enjoy. Managing stress effectively is essential for maintaining long-term productivity and well-being.
Healthy Habits
Maintain a balanced routine that includes proper nutrition, exercise, and relaxation. These habits support both physical and mental health.
Mindset and Confidence
Believe in Yourself
It’s natural to experience moments of doubt and insecurity. Acknowledge these feelings but don’t let them hinder your progress. Trust in your preparation and capabilities.
Positive Attitude
Approach the exams with confidence. Remember, perseverance and a positive mindset play a significant role in overcoming challenges.
Succeeding in COMAT exams requires a strategic approach to studying, balancing clinical responsibilities, and maintaining self-care. By focusing on practice questions, engaging in thoughtful review, designing a structured study plan, and taking care of your well-being, you can navigate these exams effectively. Believe in your abilities and remember that success is within reach. Good luck!
