ASCP M study plan

Differentiate gram-positive cocci and bacilli using catalase, coagulase, bacitracin, optochin, bile esculin, and hemolysis reactions

Classify Enterobacterales and non-fermenters by lactose fermentation, oxidase, TSI, and key biochemical reactions

Match specimen sources (urine, CSF, wound, respiratory, stool) to expected pathogens and normal flora

Explain the setup, reading, and interpretation rules of disk diffusion and broth microdilution susceptibility testing

Identify anaerobic bacteria, mycobacteria, spirochetes, Mycoplasma, Chlamydia, and Rickettsia by growth requirements and detection method

Select appropriate media and incubation conditions for each fastidious organism group

Describe viral specimen collection, transport, and the differences among cell culture, antigen detection, and molecular amplification

Interpret a viral culture or molecular result in the context of a stated clinical scenario

Compare the major DNA and RNA virus families by genome type, replication strategy, and laboratory detection method

Differentiate hepatitis A through E by transmission route, serologic marker pattern, and window period

Interpret HIV screening and confirmatory algorithms, including the differentiation of screening from supplemental assays

Match herpesvirus, respiratory virus, and enterovirus presentations to the correct diagnostic test

Classify yeasts and molds by colony morphology, microscopic structures, and dimorphism

Select and interpret direct exam, culture, and antigen tests for Candida, Cryptococcus, Aspergillus, and the dimorphic fungi

Identify dermatophytes, Malassezia, and common contaminants by microscopic and culture features

Recognize the major protozoa and helminths by diagnostic stage, specimen type, and stool/Blood parasite findings

Differentiate intestinal protozoa by trophozoite versus cyst features and by reporting criteria for pathogens versus commensals

Identify blood and tissue parasites by smear stage and correlate each with the correct collection timing

Explain concentration, permanent stain, and thin/thick film methods and when each is required

Distinguish artifact from true parasite on a described wet mount

Explain innate and adaptive immunity, immunoglobulin structure and function, and complement pathways

Interpret ANA, rheumatoid factor, and other autoimmune serologies including titer, pattern, and confirmatory testing

Differentiate hypersensitivity reactions and transplant rejection types by mechanism and laboratory finding

Compare serologic methods (ELISA, IFA, agglutination, nephelometry, chemiluminescence) by principle, sensitivity, and interference risk

Apply quality control rules, including Westgard multirule interpretation, to described control data

Calculate and interpret sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value, and percent agreement

Describe the phases of laboratory testing, corrective action documentation, and proficiency testing requirements

Outline biosafety levels, specimen rejection criteria, and infection control practices for the microbiology lab

Complete two full-length timed practice exams under exam conditions

Rank all six domains by missed-item percentage and re-drill the two weakest

Re-review every error-log entry from weeks 1 through 7 and confirm each is resolved

Rehearse rapid recall of benchmark organisms, media, stains, and serologic patterns