What Worked, What Didn't: APPLIED Exam Preparation

In this episode of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, host Nicholas Brownstone, MD, welcomes Mohs fellow Justin Marson, MD, and cosmetic fellow Saira Agarwala ,MD,  for a special live discussion recorded at the Real World Dermatology for Residents 2026 Conference on preparing for the APPLIED Exam. Sharing their own experiences and study strategies, they offer practical guidance on how APPLIED differs from the CORE Exam, what resources they found most valuable, and how residents can approach preparation without overcomplicating their study plans.

The conversation covers high-yield resources, the role of dermatopathology, how to prioritize study efforts in the months and weeks leading up to the exam, and the importance of trusting the clinical foundation developed throughout residency.

Tune in to the episode to hear practical exam-preparation advice, learn which study resources recent test-takers found most useful, and gain insights into approaching the APPLIED Exam with confidence.