Anatomy Survival Guide

Spencer Evans is a first-year medical student at the University of Colorado and is our host for this episode. He wants to provide a resource for future medical students who are going to be taking anatomy, as he just completed his human body block a few days ago.

[1:01] Adjustments.

There are definitely a lot of emotions involved in seeing a human cadaver for the first time. People have different ways of processing it, but just know that any way you deal with it is okay. Another major adjustment is the sheer magnitude of content. Spencer actually failed his first anatomy test and then made changes, later passing with a comfortable margin.

[3:29] Tip #1.

Make sure that you’re learning actively. Learning passively will not allow you to retain nearly as much information.

[5:23] Tip #2.

Focus on high-yield concepts. Your clinicals are when you focus on learning what will help you in the clinical setting. For now, learn what will help you perform best in anatomy classes.

[6:24] Tip #3.

Complete practice quizzes. Continuously test yourself on information in formats that the class is providing to ensure you are learning correctly.

[7:23] Tip #4.

Figure out which is better for you: going to lectures or watching on your computer. Make sure that you are taking in the content in the best way.

[8:48] Tip #5.

A lot of research has been done that says flashcards are probably the best way of memorizing information. Writing out flashcards would be a waste of time, but luckily, there are electronic ones.

[11:43] Tip #6.

Spencer personally needs seven hours of sleep and to go to the gym three times a week. Concentrating too much on school will make him miserable, and the time he does spend on school will be less efficient. You have to find out what works for you.

[12:52] Tip #7.

Stay present. It’s a lot tougher than you think to concentrate on a lecture or during study time.

[13:38] Tip #8.

Don’t compare yourself to classmates. You’re surrounding yourself with people who are excellent at memorization. Focus on your work. You’re there for a reason.

[15:03] Tip #9.

Don’t give up on trying new things because you never know what might work better for you.