In memory of receiving the news of passing my PANCE while aboard a cruise ship exploring the Caribbean, I've provided you with some of my thoughts on PANCE prep methods and how to get it right the first time around. If you're new to this whole PA gig, passing the PANCE (physician assistant national certifying exam) is one of the final steps in adding that PA-C to the end of your name.
𝐔𝐍𝐏𝐎𝐏𝐔𝐋𝐀𝐑 𝐎𝐏𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐎𝐍… The amount of time you dedicate to studying for the PANCE is entirely up to you and most likely will not affect your outcome. You have been preparing for the PANCE for the last 2.5-3 years. A few weeks shouldn't make a huge difference. Chances are you could take the PANCE immediately following graduation and pass.
With that being said, I recommend dedicating at least 3-4 weeks to studying full-time (6-8 hours/day) between graduation and taking the PANCE. This varies from person to person. If you crushed every exam in PA school, you probably don’t need to spend 3 months studying. The alternative is also true. If you know there are some topics that you consistently struggled with, take this into consideration.
𝐂𝐔𝐓 𝐓𝐇𝐄 CRAP – This is where QUALITY comes into play. You’ve already learned the material once in PA school. It's time to focus exclusively on passing the PANCE. That means concentrating your time and energy on high-yield content and “forgetting” the rest. Disclaimer - This is not an adequate or appropriate means of studying in PA school and will not prepare you to practice as a clinician. This method is for the sole purpose of passing the PANCE.
Don't be afraid to ask for help. I am not a genius by any means, nor do I claim to be. I have struggled (and still struggle) with some topics myself. I do however enjoy the “art of studying.” Over the course of the last 2 years, I have developed a structured approach for passing exams. I've been a PANCE tutor at @varsitytutors for a few months now and I’d love to share my study strategies with you. If you’re interested in tutoring or being tutored, feel free to reach out!
Calling all PA-Cs! What PANCE prep advice do you have?
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