The NRMP's best advice for creating your rank order list:
Tip #5: Learn how the matching algorithm is processed by reviewing
http://www.nrmp.org/res_match/about_res/algorithms.html.
Tip #4: Refer to "Charting Outcomes in the Match, 2011" to assess your competiveness as an applicant and in your desired specialty.
http://www.nrmp.org/data/chartingoutcomes2011.pdf
Tip #3: The length of your rank order list does matter! The NRMP data consistently shows that matched applicants have longer ROLs than unmatched applicants. We advise applicants to include all acceptable program choices on their ROLs.
Tip #2: Always rank programs based on your true preference, not where you think you have the best chance of matching!
Tip #1: Finally, do not wait until the last minute to certify your rank order list! Ranking opened on January 15th and the deadline to certify your rank order list is 9:00pm eastern time on February 20th. Give yourself sufficient time to create and certify your ROL. Most last-minute ROL changes are regretted by applicants.
https://www.facebook.com/TheNRMP?fref=ts