NBEO Optometry Part II Applied Basic Science Practice Test

Part I (Applied Science) focuses on foundational knowledge and recall of basic and visual science concepts. Part II (Applied Basic Science) requires you to apply that knowledge to clinical scenarios. It's the difference between knowing the mechanism of action of a drug (Part I) and predicting its ocular side effects or interactions in a patient with a specific systemic condition (Part II).

The most effective strategy is to study by clinical topic or patient presentation rather than by isolated subject. For example, study 'glaucoma' by integrating the relevant anatomy (anterior chamber angle), physiology (aqueous humor dynamics), pharmacology (drug classes like PGAs, beta-blockers), and associated systemic conditions. Use question banks that present case-based stems to train this integrative thinking.

While a understanding of principles is essential, the ABS exam typically does not emphasize heavy mathematical calculations. The focus is on conceptual application-understanding pharmacokinetics, biostatistical principles in study design, or physiological relationships-rather than performing complex computations.

Extremely important. A significant portion of the exam assesses your knowledge of systemic processes and how they relate to the eye. You must understand general principles of immunology, systemic bacterial/viral infections, endocrine disorders, and cardiovascular disease to correctly answer questions about their ocular manifestations and implications for management and referral.

First, prioritize using the official NBEO content outline to guide your study; it defines the scope. Second, focus on understanding major concepts and pathways rather than minute details. Third, create summary diagrams or tables that link concepts across disciplines (e.g., a table linking autonomic pharmacology to specific ocular muscles, receptors, and clinical effects). This consolidates information and reinforces connections.