Are you a first-year MBBS student, about to embark on your learning? Are you stressed about not having the right resources? If yes, then this guide is designed for you, so you can not only make the most of your material but also excel at your endeavors on your journey to be a future doctor!
It is a no-brainer that the first year of your medical college will be enveloping the three greats of the body and its functions, namely Anatomy, Biochemistry, and Physiology. We shall discuss these three topics, with respect to their importance in your syllabus.
- Anatomy: This is the study of the structure and organization of organisms. A branch of morphology, it forms an integral part of biological sciences. While this study focuses on both the microscopic (histology) and macroscopic (gross) levels, it becomes important to study the subject through staining, optical or imaging methods. The standard books for Anatomy are:
- Netter’s Atlas of Human Anatomy: This book comes with intensive illustrations which come in handy for studying a subject like Anatomy.
- Gray’s Anatomy: With a text that’s more detailed and comprehensive as opposed to Netter’s, this book is a classic recommendation for anyone studying the subject.
- BD Chaurasia Handbook of General Anatomy: A classic favorite, BD Chaurasia’s Anatomy book includes a deep overview of the various subdivisions in human anatomy. With ample illustrations, this book is liked and recommended by students and medical professionals alike.
- Vishram Singh’s General Anatomy: With merely 268 pages and concise language, this book is perfect for those looking to learn about anatomy without the extraneous details. Its 4-color illustrations are so articulate that they are easy to reproduce in examinations.
- Biochemistry: The study of chemical processes in living organisms, Biochemistry is a science that is an amalgamation of biology and chemistry. It is a laboratory-based study that looks at the structure, composition, and chemical reactions of human beings. The recommended books for Biochemistry are:
- Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry: A classic undergraduate textbook that is regarded as the key reference because of its elucidative nature. It highlights the structure and function of the cellular constituents.
- Harper’s Illustrated Biochemistry: A clear choice if you’re looking for clear concise elucidation of the text with a high readability factor for students who are just getting started.
- Textbook of Biochemistry for Medical Students by Damodaran M. Vasudevan: Divided into six sections, this book is a comprehensive guide that deals with the chemical basics of life, metabolism, and clinical and applied biochemistry at its least. It is a clear winner for those looking for an excellent revision guide with a pictorial representation.
- Physiology: The scientific study dealing with the functions of living organisms and their physical and chemical processes taking place in cells, organs, organ systems, and more. It constitutes one of the most fundamental parts of medicine and the study of medicine. The recommendations for Physiology books are:
- Guyton and Hall Textbook of Medical Physiology: A tailor-made book for those looking for a comprehensive know-it-all guide. Authored first almost 55 years ago, this book still stands as one of the most sought-after because of its unique formatting that helps in better retention of topics and concepts.
- GK Pal’s Textbook of Physiology: Written by a notable author, this book is one of the celebrated ones in medical education because of its comprehensive content and structured learning objectives. Divided into must-know and desirable-to-know categories, this book continues to get positively reviewed for its content.
Studying might seem difficult at first, but using these three additional tips might help you maximize your retention:
- Take running notes as you read. Writing helps you memorize things better. A handy pen and a notebook are always a great option to retain information through your methods.
- Highlight important information and key concepts. Medical jargon can seem a bit much at times, but emphasizing the right words and concepts enables you to revise faster and better.
- Form a study group or find a study buddy. The Feynman technique explains how explaining a concept to someone results in better memorization of topics and assists you in identifying your knowledge gaps so you may revise your pain points.
By following these books and recommendations, you can turn the first year of your medical college into smooth sailing. For further queries, rely on MedMonk to find you the right diagnosis for your educational path and help you sort your preferences to make your journey a rewarding one.
