Top ATLS Tips

A Collection of The Best ATLS Tips I Ever Got

Alright, picture this: you're on the brink of tackling the ATLS test, the big gateway to your dream career. You've been hitting the books, showing up to classes, but let's be real – there's that flutter of uncertainty in your stomach. Been there, done that. Looking back on my own ATLS journey, I've got some golden nuggets of wisdom that would've made things a lot smoother.

Think of this as a friendly chat over coffee, where I’m spilling the tea about what I wish I knew before I sat down for the test.

Let's start with 30 crucial ATLS tips:

1. Know your weaknesses: Listen up - knowing your weak spots is crucial. Ignoring them only sets you up for trouble down the road. If you're clueless about what you don't know, guess what? You'll stumble over those exact questions. So, identify those blind spots pronto, and I mean ASAP. How? Dive headfirst into practice – the more, the better.

2. Take ATLS practice tests at scheduled intervals: Taking ATLS practice tests helps familiarize you with the exam format and types of questions. Take full-length practice tests at regular intervals to track your progress and adjust your study plan accordingly. You can try practice tests here.

3. Practice with a ATLs exam simulator: Simulate the test environment with an online exam simulator. On the exam day you will know what to expect. Try the ATLS exam simulator to experience the real exam conditions and improve your confidence.

4. Know what kind of learner you are: Whether you're a visual, auditory, reading/writing, or kinesthetic learner, tailor your study methods to suit your strengths. This self-awareness allows you to absorb and retain information more efficiently.

5. Use Apps for Efficient Study: Utilize educational apps designed for ATLS prep to study in short, efficient bursts throughout the day. Read our guide about the best ATLS prep apps and how to get free access.

6. Utilize Flashcards for Quick Review: Keep flashcards for quick, on-the-go review, especially for vocabulary and key concepts.

7. Analyzing Graphs and Tables: Get proficient in quickly interpreting and analyzing data from graphs and tables, a common requirement in the science and reading sections.

8. Peer Study Groups for Discussion: Join or form study groups to discuss and dissect complex topics, especially in science and English sections.

9. Targeted Practice on Weak Subjects: Identify your weakest subjects in the ATLS and allocate additional study time to them.

10. Restudying Incorrect Practice Questions: Review and understand why you got certain practice questions wrong, to avoid making similar mistakes when taking the actual exam.

11. Decoding ATLS-Specific Question Styles: Familiarize yourself with the types of questions frequently seen on the ATLS, such as prioritization, cause-effect, and procedural steps.

12. Get familiar with the test structure: Understand the structure and the types of questions you will encounter, so you can develop strategies for how to approach them. This will also give you an advantage on test day.

13. Review even basic information: Do not put all your effort towards one subject that seems more complex and risk neglecting the others. You want to have a good grasp on all aspects of the theory, no matter how basic.

14. Use cheat sheets: For sections like math and grammar, there are many tricks and shortcuts to help you memorize rules, so don’t be afraid to use them. The goal is to remember the information, but the way you do so is up to you. Here you have 4 free ATLS cheat sheets.

15. Regular Breaks and Mental Rest: Schedule short breaks during study sessions to maintain peak mental performance.

16. Track your progress: Make sure you consistently test your knowledge as you study. This will help solidify the information and ensure you have a good grasp of it.

17. Relate to Real Life: Connecting what you learn to everyday things can make it easier to remember.

18. Teach Others: Explaining what you've learned to friends or family can help you understand it better.

19. Give yourself credit: When you track your progress, don’t focus only on your mistakes. Take time to acknowledge how far you’ve come from your last practice test. This will help boost your confidence and give you motivation to improve in all the other areas as well.

20. Be realistic: When you schedule your test day, make sure you give yourself enough time to prepare. Take a close look at the materials you need to study and figure out if the time you have matches up with the time you need to thoroughly review each one.

21. Don’t get discouraged: Remember that you can retake the test if your score doesn’t meet your expectations. The ATLS is complex and often overwhelming, so don’t bring yourself down if you don’t ace it on your first try.

22. Learn Test-Taking Strategies: Develop strategies for different types of questions, such as multiple-choice, and learn how to eliminate wrong answers.

23. Stay Informed About the Exam: Keep up-to-date with any changes in the exam format or content by regularly checking the official ATLS website.

24. Reward yourself: Set up a system of rewards for reaching study milestones or achieving goals in your ATLS preparation. This positive reinforcement motivates continuous effort and provides much-needed breaks, enhancing both morale and overall study effectiveness.

25. Set study goals: Establish clear, achievable study goals for your ATLS preparation, breaking down the vast material into smaller, manageable tasks. This approach keeps you focused, tracks progress, and provides a sense of accomplishment as you meet each objective.

26. Find a good study spot: Find a study spot that minimizes distractions and maximizes focus, whether it's a quiet room at home, a library, or your go-to café.

27. Find the best study strategy for you: Explore various study strategies to discover what works best for you, whether it's summarizing notes, creating flashcards, or forming study groups. The most effective strategy is one that aligns with your learning style and keeps you engaged and productive.

28. Seek Help When Needed: Don't hesitate to ask for help from instructors or tutors if you're struggling with certain topics.

29. Find a study schedule that works for you: Establish a schedule that fits your lifestyle and learning habits, ensuring consistent, focused study sessions without overburdening yourself.

30. Create a paper-based study plan: A paper-based plan provides a tangible, visual representation of your goals and progress. Seeing your study plan on paper, hanging on a wall or sitting on your desk, constantly reminds you of your objectives and deadlines.

Think that's all the advice I have? Think again! What I've shared is just the start. This guide is packed with the most extensive ATLS tips you'll find anywhere online. Now, let's dive into more wisdom I gathered post-test.

Section-Wise Tips

Initial Assessment and Management

1. Master the ABCDEs

Airway: Understand techniques for airway assessment and management, including manual methods to open the airway (jaw thrust and chin lift) and the use of airway adjuncts like oropharyngeal and nasopharyngeal airways. Be familiar with indications for more advanced airway management, such as intubation or cricothyroidotomy.
Breathing: Know how to assess breathing and manage thoracic injuries, such as tension pneumothorax, open pneumothorax, and massive hemothorax. Practice the rapid identification and management of these conditions, including needle decompression and chest tube placement.
Circulation: Be proficient in recognizing signs of shock and conducting hemorrhage control. Understand the principles of fluid resuscitation, including when to use blood products.
Disability: Get comfortable with quickly assessing neurological status using the Glasgow Coma Scale and checking for lateralizing signs or spinal injury.
Exposure: Remember to fully expose the patient to assess for any injuries while preventing hypothermia. Practice maintaining the patient’s dignity and warmth during this process.

2. Practice Scenario-Based Questions

Engage in practice questions and simulations that cover the initial assessment and management. These will help you think critically about the order of operations and the prioritization of care in a trauma setting.

3. Understand the Rationale Behind Each Step

Knowing why each step in the ABCDE protocol is done will help you remember the sequence better and apply it more effectively under exam conditions or in real-life situations.

4. Review with Flowcharts and Checklists

Use flowcharts and checklists during your study sessions to visualize the steps in trauma assessment and management. These tools can aid in memorizing the protocols and ensuring you don’t miss any steps during the practical exam.

5. Simulate the Exam Environment

Practice under conditions similar to the test setting. If possible, use manikins to simulate the physical examination and interventions. This will help you become comfortable with the practical aspects of the exam.

6. Time Management Skills

Learn to perform the initial assessment quickly and efficiently. The ATLS exam often places emphasis on your ability to rapidly identify and manage life-threatening conditions within a limited time frame.

7. Attend Review Courses

If you can, attend ATLS review courses or workshops. These are invaluable for receiving feedback from experienced instructors and for clarifying any doubts you might have about the protocols.

8. Stay Updated

Make sure your study material is the latest edition as ATLS guidelines can update. Changes may affect the management protocols you need to know for the exam.

9. Group Study and Discussion

Discuss scenarios with peers or mentors to deepen your understanding and expose yourself to different ways of thinking about trauma management.

10. Health and Well-being

On the day before the exam, ensure you are well-rested and hydrated. Being in good physical and mental condition can significantly impact your performance during the exam.

Airway and Breathing

1. Review Airway Management Techniques

Basic Airway Skills: Ensure you're proficient with basic airway maneuvers like the chin lift and jaw thrust. Know how to use airway adjuncts such as oropharyngeal (OPA) and nasopharyngeal (NPA) airways.
Advanced Airway Management: Understand the indications and techniques for endotracheal intubation, including rapid sequence intubation (RSI). Be familiar with the use of laryngeal mask airways (LMAs) and other supraglottic devices. Know the steps for performing a cricothyroidotomy if other methods fail.

2. Practice Breathing Assessment and Management

Recognize Inadequate Breathing: Learn to quickly identify signs of respiratory distress, inadequate ventilation, or obstructed airway.
Chest Trauma: Be able to identify and manage conditions such as tension pneumothorax, hemothorax, and flail chest. Know how to perform needle decompression and chest tube insertion.
Oxygenation: Understand the importance of providing adequate oxygenation and the use of various oxygen delivery systems.

3. Utilize Simulation-Based Learning

Participate in scenarios that simulate real-life situations to practice airway management and breathing support. This helps reinforce your skills and improves your confidence in performing necessary interventions under pressure.

4. Study Visual Aids

Use diagrams and videos that demonstrate techniques such as airway insertion or chest tube placement. Visual learning can be extremely helpful in mastering practical skills.

5. Understand the Equipment

Familiarize yourself with the different types of airway equipment and breathing aids available in a trauma setting, including ventilators. Knowing how to quickly operate these devices can be life-saving.

6. Review Clinical Guidelines and Protocols

Stay updated with the latest guidelines and protocols for airway and respiratory management in trauma care. Guidelines can change, and being current is crucial for the exam and clinical practice.

7. Practice Decision-Making Skills

Work on quick decision-making skills for airway and breathing management. The ATLS exam, particularly the practical stations, will test your ability to make rapid and correct decisions in emergency scenarios.

8. Prepare for Complications

Understand common complications associated with airway and breathing interventions, such as aspiration, barotrauma, and pneumothorax, and know how to address them.

9. Focus on Safety and Sterility

Always consider the safety and sterility aspects during procedures. This is crucial not only for patient safety but also for passing the practical exams where technique and protocol adherence are assessed.

10. Get Adequate Rest Before the Exam

Ensure you are well-rested before the exam day. Being alert and focused can significantly affect your performance, especially in practical assessments.

Circulation with Hemorrhage Control

1. Master the Basics of Hemorrhage Control

Direct Pressure: Understand that direct pressure is the first and most effective method for controlling external bleeding.
Tourniquets: Be familiar with indications and proper application of tourniquets for life-threatening limb bleeding when direct pressure is not effective.
Wound Packing: Know how to properly pack a wound with hemostatic agents or gauze to control bleeding.

2. Understand Shock Management

Types of Shock: Be able to identify different types of shock (hypovolemic, cardiogenic, distributive, obstructive) based on clinical signs and symptoms.
Fluid Resuscitation: Know the protocols for fluid resuscitation, including the use of crystalloids, colloids, and blood products. Understand the concept of permissive hypotension in patients with uncontrolled hemorrhage.

3. Practice Intravenous Access Techniques

IV Access: Be adept at establishing IV access quickly, including the insertion of large-bore IVs and the use of intraosseous devices in emergency situations.

4. Recognition and Management of Internal Bleeding

Understand the signs of potential internal bleeding, such as abdominal distension or pelvic instability, and know the initial management steps.
FAST Exam: Be proficient in the use of focused abdominal sonography for trauma (FAST) to detect free intraperitoneal fluid or pericardial effusion.

5. Utilize Simulation and Practical Scenarios

Engage in practical exercises or simulations that mimic real-life trauma scenarios to practice rapid assessment and management of hemorrhage and shock. This can help solidify your knowledge and improve your hands-on skills.

6. Review and Memorize Algorithms

Familiarize yourself with the latest ATLS algorithms and guidelines for the management of hemorrhage and shock. Having a clear mental map of these protocols can help you rapidly make correct decisions under pressure.

7. Prepare for Complications

Understand potential complications associated with fluid resuscitation and hemorrhage control, such as compartment syndrome, and how to identify and manage them.

8. Decision-Making Under Pressure

Practice making quick and accurate decisions regarding the prioritization of interventions in patients with multiple injuries or types of shock.

Disability

1. Master the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS)

Understand the GCS Thoroughly: Know how to assess the GCS quickly and accurately. This involves evaluating the eye, verbal, and motor responses. Memorize the scoring to speed up your assessment during the exam.

2. Neurological Examination Skills

Rapid Neuro Assessment: Practice performing a focused neurological examination, including checking pupils for size and reactivity, assessing limb movements for strength and coordination, and observing for any signs of lateralizing deficits.
Spinal Cord Assessment: Be familiar with assessing for signs of spinal cord injury and understand the implications of different levels of injury.

3. Identification and Management of Head Injuries

Recognize Types of Head Injuries: Understand the different types of head injuries, such as concussions, contusions, skull fractures, and intracranial hematomas, and their specific management strategies.
CT Scans: Know the indications for immediate CT scans in the context of trauma.

4. Manage Potential Spinal Injuries

Cervical Spine Protection: Always assume a cervical spine injury in trauma patients until proven otherwise. Practice maintaining cervical spine precautions during patient assessment and management.
Use of Immobilization Devices: Be proficient in applying cervical collars and using spine boards when indicated.

5. Understand the Impact of Disability

Secondary Injury Prevention: Be aware of how to prevent secondary brain injury by managing oxygenation, ventilation, and perfusion effectively. Know the strategies to control intracranial pressure if needed.

Exposure/Environmental Control

1. Complete and Systematic Exposure

Full Exposure: Learn to systematically and respectfully expose the patient to ensure all injuries are identified. This involves removing clothing, but doing so in a manner that maintains the patient’s dignity and prevents hypothermia.
Reexposure: Remember that after the initial assessment and interventions, reexposing and reassessing the patient is crucial, especially if their condition changes.

2. Control of Environmental Factors

Maintain Body Temperature: Understand the importance of maintaining normothermia. Be proficient in using methods such as warmed IV fluids, blankets, and controlling room temperature.
Prevent Hypothermia: Recognize the signs of hypothermia and know the immediate steps to manage it, especially in a trauma setting where patients are susceptible due to exposure and blood loss.

3. Use of Drapes and Blankets

Privacy and Respect: Use drapes or blankets to cover parts of the body that are not being assessed or treated at the moment. This helps maintain the patient’s privacy and body heat.
Efficient Use: Be adept at quickly and efficiently draping the patient to balance between exposure for injury assessment and maintaining warmth.

4. Recognition and Management of Environmental Injuries

Environmental Conditions: Be aware of injuries that could be compounded by environmental conditions, such as burns from explosions or frostbite in cold exposures.
Toxic Exposure Management: Know the basic management for patients exposed to toxic substances, including decontamination procedures when applicable.

5. Practical Skills Practice

Simulation Training: Engage in simulation-based learning to practice the skills of patient exposure and environmental control. This can help you become more adept at handling real-life scenarios efficiently.
Role-Playing: Participate in role-playing exercises to understand and practice the ethical considerations of patient exposure in a trauma setting.

6. Review Protocols and Guidelines

Guideline Familiarity: Stay up to date with the latest protocols regarding exposure and environmental control in trauma care, including any updates in ATLS guidelines.

7. Effective Communication

Team Coordination: Practice communicating with your team about the need for reexposure and when to implement measures to control the patient's environment. Effective teamwork is crucial for maintaining patient care standards during the exam and in practice.

8. Time Management

Quick and Thorough: Develop a method to quickly yet thoroughly expose and assess the patient, then cover them back up. Efficient time management during this process is essential, especially under exam conditions where every minute counts.

9. Mental Preparedness

Calm and Focused: Train yourself to remain calm and focused while performing complete exposure. This is crucial, as the exam environment can be high-pressure.

10. Prevent Secondary Injuries

Careful Handling: Practice careful handling techniques to avoid causing pain or exacerbating existing injuries during the exposure process.

Special Patient Populations

1. Understand Physiological Differences

Children: Learn about the anatomical and physiological differences that affect how children respond to trauma. This includes their higher body surface area to volume ratio, which increases their risk of hypothermia, and their relatively larger head size, making them more prone to head injuries.
Pregnant Women: Know the physiological changes during pregnancy that can complicate the management of trauma, such as increased blood volume and changes in cardiovascular dynamics. Also, understand the implications of trauma on both the mother and the fetus, including the risk of placental abruption.
Elderly: Recognize how comorbidities and the physiological changes of aging (such as decreased bone density and altered drug metabolism) affect trauma care in the elderly.

2. Specific Management Techniques

Children: Master the adjustments needed in fluid resuscitation, the use of equipment sized for children, and the psychological aspects of dealing with pediatric trauma.
Pregnant Women: Be familiar with the need for additional monitoring (fetal monitoring), considerations for emergency delivery, and positioning (avoiding supine hypotensive syndrome by tilting the right hip).
Elderly: Understand the importance of a thorough medication history and the potential need for additional diagnostic screening due to the high incidence of pre-existing conditions.

3. Practice Scenario-Based Questions

Engage in practice questions and scenarios that involve these special populations to develop a nuanced understanding of how to apply ATLS principles differently for each group.

4. Review Current Guidelines and Research

Stay updated on the latest guidelines and research concerning trauma care for special populations. Guidelines can change, and new research may influence current best practices.

5. Simulations and Role-Playing

Participate in simulations that focus on special populations to practice the unique aspects of their care. This can help build confidence and improve practical skills.

6. Multidisciplinary Approach

Understand the importance of a multidisciplinary approach, especially for pregnant women and elderly patients, where specialists (such as obstetricians or geriatricians) may need to be involved in the trauma team.

7. Cultural Sensitivity and Communication

Practice culturally sensitive communication skills, particularly when dealing with families and when cultural considerations might impact the treatment preferences or interaction with the trauma team.

8. Ethical Considerations

Be aware of ethical considerations that may arise, particularly with pediatric and elderly patients who may have different levels of autonomy or understanding.

9. Documentation

Be meticulous in documenting care, as special populations may have legal or reporting requirements, especially in cases involving child or elder abuse.

10. Review Protocols for Special Interventions

Know the specific protocols for interventions that are unique to these populations, such as perimortem cesarean section in pregnant women.

Tips from My Exam Day Experience

Arrive early, stay hydrated, and keep calm. Read each question carefully and don't rush your answers.

Before the Exam

1. Get a Good Night's Sleep: Ensure you're well-rested the night before to stay alert and focused.

2. Healthy Breakfast: Eat a nutritious and light breakfast. Avoid heavy or unfamiliar foods that might cause discomfort.

3. Gather Necessary Materials: Ensure you have all required items (ID, admission ticket, pens/pencils, etc.) ready the night before.

4. Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable clothing suitable for a long sitting period, considering the temperature of the test center.

5. Plan Your Route: Know exactly how to get to the testing center and plan to arrive early to avoid any last-minute rush or stress.

During the Test

1. Prepare for the Exam Day: Know the location of your test center, the time of your exam, and what you need to bring.

2. Read Instructions Carefully: Make sure you understand the format and instructions for each section before starting.

3. Focus on Key Words: Pay attention to keywords in questions such as "compare," "contrast," "analyze," etc. This guides you on how to structure your answers.

4. Use Elimination Method: For multiple-choice questions, eliminate the obviously wrong answers to improve your chances of guessing correctly.

5. Stay Calm and Focused: If you feel anxious, take deep breaths and refocus. Maintain a positive mindset throughout the exam.

6. Time Management: Keep an eye on the clock and allocate your time wisely, ensuring you have enough time for all questions.

7. Answer Every Question: There's no penalty for guessing, so make sure to answer every question, even if you're unsure.

8. Break Tasks into Smaller Steps: If you feel overwhelmed, break down the exam into smaller, manageable tasks. Focus on one question at a time rather than the exam as a whole.

9. Stay Mindful of Your Body Language: Pay attention to your body language during the exam. Sit up straight, relax your shoulders, and avoid tensing your muscles. Adopting a confident posture can help reduce feelings of anxiety and increase feelings of self-assurance.

10. Review Your Work: If time allows, go back and review your answers. Look for any mistakes or areas where you might have misunderstood the question.

11. Focus on the Present: Don't dwell on past mistakes or worry about future outcomes. Stay grounded in the present moment and concentrate on the task at hand.

12. Reflect on Your Progress: After completing the exam, take a moment to reflect on your performance objectively. Acknowledge your efforts, regardless of the outcome, and focus on what you've learned from the experience to inform your approach to future exams.

How to deal with Exam Anxiety

Dealing with exam anxiety can be challenging, but there are effective tips to manage it and perform your best:

1. Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: To reduce anxiety, engage in deep breathing or meditation before the exam.

2. Focus on the Present: Don't dwell on past mistakes or worry about future outcomes. Stay grounded in the present moment and concentrate on the task at hand.

3. Use Grounding Techniques: If you feel yourself becoming anxious, use grounding techniques to reconnect with the present moment. Focus on the sensation of your feet on the ground to help anchor yourself and reduce anxiety.

4. Use Time Management Strategies: Allocate specific timeframes for each section of the exam to prevent feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Stick to your plan but remain flexible if adjustments are needed.

5. Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Ensure you're well-rested and maintain a healthy diet leading up to the exam. Physical well-being significantly impacts mental performance.

6. Mindset and Stress Management: Develop a positive mindset and stress management techniques, as mental state can significantly impact test performance.

7. Physical Exercise: Regular physical activity can boost brain function and reduce stress, enhancing study effectiveness.

8. Healthy Diet and Hydration: Maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated to keep your brain in optimal condition.

9. Take Care of Your Health: Good nutrition, regular exercise, and adequate sleep greatly affect your ability to study and perform well on the exam.

10. Reflect on Your Progress: After completing the exam, take a moment to reflect on your performance objectively. Acknowledge your efforts, regardless of the outcome, and focus on what you've learned from the experience to inform your approach to future exams.

11. Preparation and Planning: Start studying early and plan your study time. Break down the material into manageable sections and create a revision timetable. Being well-prepared reduces anxiety significantly.

12. Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Maintain a balanced diet, get regular exercise, and ensure you have enough sleep. Physical well-being significantly impacts mental health and can help reduce stress.

13. Relaxation Techniques: Learn and practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga. These can help calm your mind and reduce physical symptoms of anxiety.

14. Positive Thinking and Visualization: Replace negative thoughts with positive ones. Visualize success and imagine yourself answering questions confidently. This practice can boost your self-esteem and reduce anxiety.

15. Practice Under Exam Conditions: Simulate exam conditions by timing yourself and working through past papers or sample questions. This familiarizes you with the format and timing of the exam, reducing fear of the unknown.

16. Understand the Material, Don't Just Memorize: Focus on understanding the concepts rather than just memorizing facts. Deep understanding can increase your confidence and reduce anxiety about tricky questions.

17. Stay Organized: Keep your study area tidy and organize your notes and materials. A clutter-free environment can lead to a clearer mind.

18. Avoid Cramming: Last-minute cramming can increase anxiety. Instead, review your notes calmly and get a good night's sleep before the exam.

19. Talk About Your Anxiety: Discuss your feelings with friends, family, or a counselor. Talking about your worries can provide relief and help you gain perspective.

20. Mindful Breaks and Downtime: Take regular short breaks during study sessions to relax and recharge. Engage in activities you enjoy to keep stress levels down.

21. Focus on Process, Not Outcome: Concentrate on the process of studying and understanding the material, rather than obsessing over the potential outcome of the exam.

22. Arrive Early and Prepared: On the day of the exam, arrive early and ensure you have all the necessary materials (pens, calculator, etc.). This can prevent last-minute panic.

23. Read Through the Exam First: Start by quickly reading through the entire exam to plan your time effectively and tackle the questions you find easiest first.

24. Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Bring water and a light snack if allowed. Staying hydrated and keeping blood sugar levels stable can help maintain focus and reduce anxiety.

25. Seek Professional Help if Necessary: If your anxiety is overwhelming and affects your daily functioning, consider seeking help from a mental health professional.

Remember, it's normal to feel some level of anxiety about exams. It can even be a motivator. The key is to manage it effectively and not let it control you.

Traps to avoid

Don’t skip something because you think it won’t show up on the test.

Studying for the ATLS exam will eat up a lot of your time. Gain experiences that help you ensure that medicine is for you before taking the exam.

More is not always better. Everyone has different learning strategies and techniques to prepare that work best for them. There are a lot of different ways to prepare for this test, and sometimes more is not better. You know how you learn best, so remember to keep things simple and do what works best for you.

The ATLS is an important test, but don’t let it take over your life. You need to maintain relationships with your friends and family. You also need to take care of your body and ensure you are eating, sleeping, and exercising.

You do not have to spend a lot of money. If you are dedicated, committed, and stick to a plan, you can study effectively and receive a high score on your own with the use of full-length tests and cheap online resources. Every resource I used was cheap. You do not need to spend hundreds of dollars on an overpriced ATLS prep course. The practice tests I used were from HESIExamPrep.com and I also used the free trial from the ZenPrep app.

Don’t stress too much. You can take the exam again if you need to.

Don’t be too proud to ask for help.

What types of exam prep were

the most useful for me?

I used all HESIExamPrep materials and highly recommend them. Personally, I preferred doing practice tests online; something about seeing them on my laptop just clicked better than squinting at my iPhone screen. Oh, and don't sleep on the ZenPrep app – it's a game-changer.

Create a Study Plan

Here's the deal: building a study plan for the ATLS test requires a methodical approach to tackle all the essential content areas.

Here's a cool ATLS Study Hack 🌟

1. Kick-Off with a Sketch: Grab a piece of paper and sketch out the four main sections of the ATLS: Reading, Mathematics, Science, and English and Language Usage.

2. Break It Down: From each of these sections, draw lines and jot down all the subtopics you can think of. This step is about breaking the big sections into smaller, more manageable chunks.

3. Detail the Details: Now, for each subtopic, write down everything you know that the test will cover. This could include key concepts, formulas, vocabulary, or types of questions. It's like unpacking each subtopic into even smaller pieces.

4. Check Yourself: Compare your detailed breakdown with our "ATLS Structure" article. This will help you identify any areas you might have missed or overlooked. Fill in the gaps in your outline with information from the article.

5. Review and Update: Keep this detailed blueprint handy for your study sessions. Review it regularly and update it as you learn more. This living document will help you track your progress and ensure you're covering all necessary material.

This enhanced method ensures a thorough and in-depth understanding of each section and subtopic, better-preparing students for the intricacies of the ATLS exam.

Remember to use good-quality Study Materials

Invest in good quality ATLS prep materials and online resources.

Leverage study guides and preparation courses that are specifically designed for the ATLS exam. These resources provide targeted practice and review materials.

Conclusion

Succeeding in the ATLS requires a blend of thorough preparation, strategic studying, and practical test-taking strategies. Understanding the exam structure, focusing on your weak areas, and employing effective study methods will increase your chances of achieving a high score. Remember, your performance on the ATLS is a step towards your dream career, so give it the attention and effort it deserves.