How to score a 270+ on Step 2CK and Beat the Board Exams | Adam Plotkin

What does it take to score a 273 on Step 2 CK — and still care more about patients than percentiles? In this episode of More Than Medicine, I sit down with Adam Plotkin, a fourth-year medical student, ultramarathon runner, and powerlifter whose motto is simple: Leave no doubt. Adam didn’t study for the boards just to crush an exam — he studied to become the best physician he can possibly be. Whether you’re a medical student, Step 1/Step 2 CK test-taker, or just someone chasing mastery in your field, this episode should have you fired up to get after it. Chapters: 00:00 Why listen to this episode? 06:02 Intro and Background 09:09 HPSP Experience and Passion for IM 14:46 National Guard Escort into MCAT Exam 18:14 Mindset and Approach to Medical School 20:05 Is Step 1 more important than Step 2? 23:15 Learn Fundamental Concepts 26:22 Advice to First Years 30:57 "You have that dog in you" 31:56 Adam's Study Habits and Advice 44:31 Mastering Practice Questions 54:09 Mindset Over Resources 57:34 Lessons from Tutoring 01:03:00 STEP 1: Domination over Passing 01:04:26 "Burn the Boats" 01:10:09 STEP 2: Starting Strong 01:14:17 Studying on Clinical Rotations 01:29:58 No notes and no flashcards 01:34:10 Difference Between 260 - 270 on Step2 01:41:19 Getting the Most Out of Rotations 01:50:38 New AI Board Prep Platform 01:57:10 Final Thoughts: Challenge Yourself and Be Curious 01:59:17 End Adam's YouTube Lectures: ‪@PlotkinVsTheBoards‬