The process of matching into an orthopaedic surgery residency program can be daunting for medical students. Rumors, innuendo, urban myths, and electronic misinformation can accentuate the angst experienced by students both domestically and internationally. This article dispels myths and presents an up-to-date, evidence-based (where possible), and experience-laden road map to assist medical students interested in pursuing a career in orthopaedic surgery. Our framework takes into account the program selection, test scores, letters of recommendation, visiting rotations, interviews, and communication. We hope that this survival guide will serve as a reference point assisting medical students in achieving successful matches into orthopaedic surgery residency programs.