The Day Before Step 2 CK: My Rituals, Mindset, and Must-Do’s for Success

The day before Step 2 CK is a unique blend of excitement, nerves, and preparation. Over the years, I’ve learned that how you spend this day can make a huge difference in your mindset and performance on test day. It’s not just about studying harder—it’s about being strategic, calm, and intentional. Here’s a detailed look at my day-before routine that helps me feel grounded and ready.

Early Morning: Start Strong with Anki and High-Yield Review

I’m an early riser on purpose (I normally am not an early riser)—I wake up at 5 AM. I know it sounds intense, but by getting up this early, it ensures that I will be able to fall asleep that night, even with all the nerves. The first thing I do is complete my Anki cards due that day. This isn’t about cramming; it’s about reinforcing what I’ve already learned and keeping my recall sharp. Anki has been my constant companion throughout 3rd year of medical school, and I trust it to keep my memory fresh.

After Anki, I dive into my high-yield (HY) document. This is a personalized compilation of the most important facts and concepts I need to know for Step 2 CK. I highlight even more key points as I review, focusing on topics I want to revisit first thing the next morning. This targeted approach prevents overwhelm and ensures I’m prioritizing the right material.

Moving My Body: The Power of Exercise

I never skip a workout on the day before the exam. Whether it’s a quick run, or a high inclined walk, exercise helps me manage stress and boosts my mood. It’s amazing how much clarity and calm a little sweat can bring. Plus, it helps me avoid feeling cooped up or anxious.

Podcasts for Motivation and Last-Minute Pearls

I have a few go-to podcasts that I listen to religiously before exams. On this day, I tuned into HY Divine episodes 123, 27, and 325. These episodes are packed with high-yield facts about ethics, screening guidelines, and risk factors that always help me day of exam.

The Hotel Hack: Reducing Stress by Staying Close

Since the testing center is usually far from where I live, I always book a hotel nearby for the night before. This is one of my best-kept secrets for reducing stress. No worrying about traffic, parking, or last-minute delays. Just a calm, short trip to the exam center in the morning. It’s worth every penny for the peace of mind it brings. Sometimes I even travel to the testing facility the day before to make sure I know where I will be going the next day.

Connection and Calm: Family and Faith

At some point during the day before, I call my parents. Hearing their voices and words of encouragement always calms my nerves. It reminds me that I’m not alone in this journey. I also take a few moments to pray, grounding myself spiritually and mentally. This practice centers me and helps me focus on the bigger picture beyond the exam.

My Superstitious Comfort Food: Chicken Parm from Olive Garden

I’m a little superstitious, and I’ve developed a tradition of ordering the same meal the night before every board exam: chicken parmesan from Olive Garden. It’s silly, but this ritual helps me get into the right mindset. It’s comforting, familiar, and signals to my brain that it’s time to focus and perform.

Caffeine Prep and Relaxation

I pick up my Starbucks matcha + espresso drink for test day and put it in a thermos. Having this ready the night before means one less thing to worry about in the morning. Once at the hotel, I relax by watching TV and using my suboccipital release tool—a lifesaver for tension headaches and neck tightness. I try to avoid screens too close to bedtime, but a little light entertainment helps me unwind.

Bedtime Routine: Essential Oils and Early Sleep

By 10 PM, I’m in bed with my essential oils diffusing around me. Good sleep is non-negotiable. I remind myself that rest is just as important as study.

Final Thoughts

The day before Step 2 CK isn’t about frantic last-minute studying. It’s about setting yourself up mentally, physically, and emotionally for success. My rituals—from early Anki to Olive Garden chicken parm—might seem quirky, but they work for me. Find what calms your brain and stick to it. You’ve done the work. Now it’s time to trust yourself and get ready to crush the exam.