What’s the best way to simulate a real exam?

Simulating a Real Exam

The most effective way to replicate test day is to combine QBank (in Timed Mode) with CCS Runner under strict, exam-like conditions. This builds your stamina, time management, and decision-making under pressure.

Core Setup

• Environment: Quiet room, no phone, no notes, single monitor, notifications off. Use earplugs/headphones if you will on test day.
• Interface & rules: QBank in Timed Mode, mixed & random. No pausing, no Tutor mode. CCS Runner with strict case timers.
• Materials: Water/snacks for breaks, scratch pad if allowed in your test center (or a blank sheet to mimic whiteboard).
• Mindset: Treat it as a scored attempt. If you make a mistake, keep going—just like the real exam.

QBank Configuration

• Block size: 40 questions per block (Timed Mode).
• Content mode: Mixed, random.
• Pacing: Aim for ~80–85 seconds per question on average. Mark and move if stuck; return at the end.

CCS Runner Configuration

• Schedule short, focused sessions with firm timers (e.g., 10–20 minutes per case, as provided by the Runner).
• Practice the Order → Advance Time → Reassess loop. Don’t over-advance if unstable; reassess frequently.
• Rotate through high-yield scenarios (chest pain/ACS, sepsis, DKA/HHS, stroke/TIA, asthma/COPD, GI bleed, pregnancy-related issues).

Two-Day Simulation Plan (Recommended)

Goal: Combine QBank stamina with CCS decision practice across two days.

Day 1 — QBank Heavy

• Blocks: 4 × 40-question Timed blocks (about 4 hours of testing).
• Breaks: 10–15 minutes total between blocks (e.g., 5 + 5 + 5). Keep breaks short to maintain pressure.
• Optional add-on: 1–2 CCS cases at the end (strict timing).

Day 2 — QBank + CCS

• Blocks: 3 × 40-question Timed blocks (about 3 hours).
• CCS session: 3–5 timed cases immediately after the last block.
• Breaks: Short, time-capped breaks (total 10–15 minutes).

Why this works: You’ll complete 7 timed blocks across 2 days (QBank stamina) and embed strictly timed CCS runs (clinical pacing). This mirrors real test fatigue and timing demands.

Block-by-Block Timing Template

Exam-Day Rules to Imitate

• No peeking at explanations during blocks. Review only after you finish the session.
• Fixed break budget: Pre-plan when you’ll break; set timers and stick to them.
• Nutrition strategy: Small, easy snacks; steady hydration.
• Ergonomics: Same chair setup, lighting, and screen distance you’ll use on test day.

Review Workflow

1. Quick pass (1–1.5× block time): Review all questions. For each miss, write the why (knowledge gap vs. misread vs. time).
2. Deep dive (later that day or next morning): Study weak topics with a short, focused list (not endless notes).
3. CCS feedback: Identify delays (late antibiotics, no monitoring orders), missing early labs/imaging, and disposition issues. Turn these into a personal checklist.

Weekly Cadence (4-Week Ramp)

• Weeks 1–2: 1–2 simulation days/week (4–6 QBank blocks + 2–3 CCS cases on those days).
• Week 3: 2 simulation days (6–7 total QBank blocks + 4–6 CCS cases).
• Week 4: Full two-day simulation (as above) + targeted review.

Common Pitfalls

• Pausing or using Tutor mode: Undermines timing practice—avoid.
• Overlong breaks: Break inertia kills pacing; time your breaks.
• Skipping CCS timing: Decision speed matters—enforce strict case timers.
• Endless note-taking during review: Capture the reason for misses and one actionable fix; move on.

At-a-Glance Plan

• Combine: QBank Timed Mode + CCS Runner (strict timing)
• QBank: 40-question blocks; aim ~80–85s per Q
• Two-Day Sim: Day 1 = 4 blocks (+ optional 1–2 CCS) | Day 2 = 3 blocks + 3–5 CCS
• Breaks: short, pre-planned, time-capped
• Review: quick pass same day; deep dive next; turn misses into a checklist

Tip: If you feel rushed, practice with one fewer break and a 2–3 minute “final sweep” at the end of each block for marked questions.