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The Quesmed Complete Guide to MRCP Part 1

So you want to start your MRCP diploma journey but aren't quite sure where to start? Continue reading for a full guide on everything you need to know about MRCP Part 1, the first of three exams that need to be passed in order to achieve the MRCP diploma. What is the MRCP Part 1? MRCP Part 1 is a written exam taken by doctors who have completed a minimum of 12 months of postgraduate medical experience. This includes both UK-trained doctors and international medical graduates (IMGs). The purpose of MRCP Part 1 is to evaluate a candidate’s understanding and knowledge of common and important disorders, as well as clinical sciences relevant to medical practice at a level appropriate for entry to specialist training. Who undertakes the MRCP Diploma? MRCP Part 1 is the first exam on the journey towards the MRCP (UK) Diploma. You must have at least 12 months of postgraduate medical experience before applying to sit the exam, which usually means waiting until completion of FY1 in the UK before applying. The MRCP Diploma is a post-graduate diploma designed to test the skills, knowledge, and behaviours of a doctor who wishes to undergo medical speciality training in the United Kingdom. Many doctors - within the UK and abroad - undertake the MRCP diploma even if it is not a training requirement in order to provide additional value to their portfolio, but also to develop their skills and knowledge further. In order to achieve this qualification, you have to sit and successfully pass three exams: MRCP Part 1 MRCP Part 2 Written MRCP Part 2 Clinical , also known as PACES Any doctor who wishes to start specialist registrar training in the UK within a physician or medical training programme must have completed all parts of the MRCP diploma in order to enter the relevant specialist training. The specialities where MRCP is a requirement are reproduced below: ! Exam Format - MRCP Part 1 The MRCP Part 1 examination is designed to test the doctor’s knowledge of clinical science as relevant to their medical practice. The aim is to ensure the candidate understands common and important disorders that they may come across during their specialist training, at an entry level. The exam is currently completed electronically and is comprised of two papers, each with 100 questions in a best of five format, where one answer will be the single best answer. There is no negative marking, and each correct answer is awarded a single mark. If taken in the UK, you will sit the exam at home and will be monitored remotely whilst doing so; if taken internationally, the exam will be sat at a test centre. What is the style of MRCP Part 1 Questions? In the MRCP Part 1 exam, the questions are usually single-step logic with succinct stems; the focus of the question is usually on immediate next steps or basic sciences. This is as opposed to the two-step logic with more complex clinical reasoning and longer stems where more information is provided for the candidate to integrate and synthesise in order to come to a conclusion; this is the type of question you will encounter in the MRCP Part 2 written exam. Therefore, the questions tend to ask one of a handful of things: What is the most likely diagnosis? What is the next step in management? What is the best or next treatment? What is the best investigation? Or some basic sciences question, such as drug mechanism of action or mode of inheritance There will always be 5 options, and one option will be the best answer, though the other 4 options will often be a close match and possibilities, hence single best answer. Here are some example exam questions to help you understand the format a bit better! In the question below, you can see the question mainly asking about the most appropriate treatment for ESBL. This question is testing the candidate’s understanding of clinical microbiology and drug resistance. ! This next question illustrates how a question that wants to test core sciences principles, such as genetics, may be phrased. Here, through the past medical history and background, the candidate is expected to determine the underlying diagnosis as MODY3, and use this to answer the question about the gene that is most likely affected. The logic in this question is more two-step, and as such this may be considered a more difficult question, however the core of the question remains basic sciences and has less of a clinical focus, making it more similar to what may be encountered during the MRCP Part 1 exam. ! Finally, the question below is an example of a question aiming to test a candidate’s ability to put together limited clinical information to come to a reasonable best diagnosis. ! At Quesmed we have worked closely with the best physicians who have taken and successfully passed the MRCP exams in order to develop over 4500 questions as part of our that are based on themes from previous papers. What Specialties are covered in MRCP Part 1? The subject of the questions is based on a careful blueprint designed to ensure that an appropriate range of medical knowledge is tested. Therefore, each speciality or subject area being tested is given a rough proportion of the total number of questions available across both papers, as displayed in this table. For example, across both papers, one would expect to answer approximately 14 questions on Cardiology, and 8 questions on Geriatric Medicine. ! MRCP Part 1 Exam dates and Fees Plan ahead as there are only fixed dates when you can sit the exam, published by the Royal College of Physicians. Application deadlines are usually several months in advance of the exam itself, so it is imperative to check ahead of time so you do not miss out on your desired date. ! You should check the current fees directly on the as it may be subject to change. Results and unsuccessful attempts Results are published online, 1-2 months after completing the exam. The results release dates are available on the Royal College of Physicians website, so you have an idea of when to expect to hear if your attempt has been successful or not. The pass mark for the MRCP Part 1 examination is 540. Most candidates will score between 200-800; the minimum score is 0, and the maximum score is 999. This score is scaled, such that it is calculated by taking into consideration not only the number of questions the candidate has correctly answered, but also the relative difficulty of the question and the exam. Once MRCP Part 1 has been passed, the candidate then has 7 years to complete the remaining sections of the MRCP Diploma - MRCP Part 2 written, and MRCP Part 2 PACES. If unsuccessful, candidates are permitted a maximum number of 6 attempts. If the exam has not been passed after 6 attempts, then the candidate will need to be supported in additional training with appropriate evidence before further attempts are allowed. How to prepare Everyone prepares differently, and there is no single right or wrong answer, but here are some tips that may help you as you plan your revision strategy! At Quesmed, we have worked closely with expert physicians to develop over 4700 Questions as part of our These are based on themes and topics that have appeared in previous exams. Alongside our questions, we have generated a dedicated reference textbook that you have access to as part of your subscription. This textbook covers all the key topics that you will need to know about prior to sitting your MRCP exams, and has been developed carefully with the MRCP blueprint in mind. Here are some useful tips to get you started with your revision: 1. Start early. - Don’t underestimate the depth and breadth of topics covered in this exam. Starting well in advance gives you a buffer for unexpected hurdles. 2. Plan your revision. Set timelines and goals. Be aware of the range of topics covered by the exam as discussed above, and ensure your revision strategy covers these specialities 3. Do as many practice questions as possible Practice questions should be the core of your revision, especially questions that cover previous exam themes Take time to read detailed explanations on why your answer is correct or incorrect to further guide your revision and fill in any gaps 4. Diversify your study materials. - Don’t rely on one single resource - Obtain a good reference textbook or get access to a detailed online knowledge library to synthesise your revision notes 5. Take mock tests - Taking tests in timed conditions can help you replicate the exam experience and get used to the time pressures you may face in the exam 6. Use official resources where available. - The Royal College of Physicians publish sample questions on their website. - These are a great way of getting used to the types of questions asked and can also be used as mock tests. 7. Study groups and flash cards. - Join or create a study group! - Discussing topics and testing each other can provide different perspectives and help in clarifying doubts. - Flash cards can be an invaluable resource to allow you to test yourself on key topics quickly. 8. Breaks and Health - Remember to take regular breaks and maintain your health. - This is a marathon, not a sprint. We normally recommend 3-6 months of target revision, depending on your clinical commitments. References - - - - -

The Quesmed Complete Guide to MRCP Part 2

Well done on getting through MRCP Part 1! This was your first step towards achieving the MRCP Diploma and may have also been your first post-graduate examination since qualifying as a doctor. Continue reading as we go through everything you need to know about the second part of the MRCP Diploma, MRCP Part 2. What is the MRCP Part 2? MRCP Part 2 Written is an exam taken by doctors who have completed MRCP Part 1 successfully. This includes both UK-trained doctors and international medical graduates (IMGs). The purpose of MRCP Part 2 is to evaluate a candidate’s ability to integrate clinical presentations alongside test results in order to determine diagnoses and management plans. Who undertakes the MRCP Diploma? MRCP Part 2 is the second exam on the journey towards the MRCP (UK) Diploma. It is completed after MRCP Part 1, which candidates are eligible to attempt after having had at least 12 months of postgraduate medical experience (which usually means waiting until completion of FY1 in the UK). The MRCP Diploma is a post-graduate diploma designed to test the skills, knowledge, and behaviours of a doctor who wishes to undergo medical speciality training in the United Kingdom. Many doctors - within the UK and abroad - undertake the MRCP diploma even if it is not a training requirement in order to provide additional value to their portfolio, but also to develop their skills and knowledge further. In order to achieve this qualification, you have to sit and successfully pass three exams: MRCP Part 1 MRCP Part 2 Written MRCP Part 2 Clinical, also known as PACES Any doctor who wishes to start specialist registrar training in the UK within a physician or medical training programme must have completed all parts of the MRCP diploma in order to enter the relevant specialist training. The specialities where MRCP is a requirement are reproduced below: ! Exam Format - MRCP Part 2 Written The MRCP Part 2 Written examination is designed to test the doctor’s knowledge of clinical medicine as relevant to their practice. The aim is to ensure the candidate understands common and important disorders that they may come across during their specialist training, at an entry level. The exam is currently completed electronically and is comprised of two papers, each with 100 questions in a best of five format, where one answer will be the single best answer. There is no negative marking, and each correct answer is awarded a single mark. If taken in the UK, you will sit the exam at home and will be monitored remotely whilst doing so; if taken internationally, the exam will be sat at a test centre. What is the style of MRCP Part 2 Questions? In the MRCP Part 2 Written exam, the questions are usually complex, with long stems requiring the candidate to integrate several pieces of clinical information, including the results of investigations, in order to come to the correct answer. The questions may require the candidate to apply two-step logic frequently, for example by first coming to the diagnosis based on the information given, but the question being about treatment rather than the underlying diagnosis. These more complex question stems are designed in order to mimic clinical reasoning and clinical medicine as may be experienced in clinical practice; this is in contrast to Part 1, where the stems are usually shorter, with single-step logic, and a greater focus on clinical sciences. Therefore, the questions in MRCP Part 2 Written tend to have a slightly more clinical focus, asking the candidate to either make a diagnosis or identify the next best step in management, treatment, or investigation. There will always be 5 options, and one option will be the best answer, though the other 4 options will often be a close match and possibilities, hence single best answer. Here are some example exam questions to help you understand the format a bit better! In this question below, the candidate is expected to integrate the patient’s history, including social history, alongside examination findings, in order to first come to the underlying diagnosis of enterobiasis. The question, however, requires two-step logic; rather than asking what the diagnosis is, it asks what the definitive treatment would be for the patient. ! ! This next question illustrates a more complex stem. The candidate is provided with a clinical history but also investigation test results. The candidate must use this information in order to answer the question, which again relies on two-step logic; first, coming to the conclusion that the underlying diagnosis is most likely Coeliac disease, and then using this to answer the question itself about the most likely long-term complication. ! ! At Quesmed we have worked closely with the best physicians who have taken and successfully passed the MRCP exams in order to develop over 2000 questions as part of our that are based on themes from previous papers. What Specialties are covered in MRCP Part 2? The subject of the questions is based on a careful blueprint designed to ensure that an appropriate range of medical knowledge is tested. Therefore, each speciality or subject area being tested is given a rough proportion of the total number of questions available across both papers, as displayed in this table. For example, across both papers, one would expect to answer approximately 9 questions on Haematology, and 19 questions on Infectious diseases. ! MRCP Part 2 Exam dates and Fees Plan ahead as there are only fixed dates when you can sit the exam, published by the Royal College of Physicians. Application deadlines are usually several months in advance of the exam itself, so it is imperative to check ahead of time so you do not miss out on your desired date.You should check the current fees directly on the [RCP website] (https://www.mrcpuk.org/mrcpuk-examinations/part-2/exam-dates-and-fees) as it may be subject to change. ! Results and unsuccessful attempts Results are published online, 1-2 months after completing the exam. The results release dates are available on the Royal College of Physicians website, so you have an idea of when to expect to hear if your attempt has been successful or not. The pass mark for the MRCP Part 2 Written examination is 454. Most candidates will score between 200-800; the minimum score is 0, and the maximum score is 999. This score is scaled, such that it is calculated by taking into consideration not only the number of questions the candidate has correctly answered, but also the relative difficulty of the question and the exam. All components of the MRCP diploma must be completed within 7 years of the candidate’s first successful attempt at the MRCP Part 1 examination. If unsuccessful, candidates are permitted a maximum number of 6 attempts. If the exam has not been passed after 6 attempts, then the candidate will need to be supported in additional training with appropriate evidence before further attempts are allowed. How to prepare Everyone prepares differently, and there is no single right or wrong answer, but here are some tips that may help you as you plan your revision strategy! At Quesmed, we have worked closely with expert physicians to develop over 2000 Questions as part of our [MRCP Part 2 Question Bank](https://quesmed.com/mrcp-part-2-question-bank/]! These are based on themes and topics that have appeared in previous exams. Alongside our questions, we have generated a dedicated reference textbook that you have access to as part of your subscription. This textbook covers all the key topics that you will need to know about prior to sitting your MRCP exams, and has been developed carefully with the MRCP blueprint in mind. Here are some useful tips to get you started with your revision: 1. Start early. - Don’t underestimate the depth and breadth of topics covered in this exam. Starting well in advance gives you a buffer for unexpected hurdles. 2. Plan your revision. Set timelines and goals. Be aware of the range of topics covered by the exam as discussed above, and ensure your revision strategy covers these specialities 3. Do as many practice questions as possible Practice questions should be the core of your revision, especially questions that cover previous exam themes Take time to read detailed explanations on why your answer is correct or incorrect to further guide your revision and fill in any gaps 4. Diversify your study materials. - Don’t rely on one single resource - Obtain a good reference textbook or get access to a detailed online knowledge library to synthesise your revision notes 5. Take mock tests - Taking tests in timed conditions can help you replicate the exam experience and get used to the time pressures you may face in the exam 6. Use official resources where available. - The Royal College of Physicians publish sample questions on their website. - These are a great way of getting used to the types of questions asked and can also be used as mock tests. 7. Study groups and flash cards. - Join or create a study group! - Discussing topics and testing each other can provide different perspectives and help in clarifying doubts. - Flash cards can be an invaluable resource to allow you to test yourself on key topics quickly. 8. Breaks and Health - Remember to take regular breaks and maintain your health. - This is a marathon, not a sprint. We normally recommend 3-6 months of target revision, depending on your clinical commitments. References - - - - -

The Quesmed Complete Guide to MRCP PACES

Well done on getting through MRCP Part 1 and MRCP Part 2 written! You will have no doubt worked hard to get to this point and you are one step closer to achieving the full MRCP diploma. One final obstacle stands in your way - MRCP Part 2 Clinical, or PACES - and this is your guide to conquering the last hurdle! What is the MRCP Part 2 Clinical (PACES)? MRCP Part 2 clinical, often referred to simply as PACES, is a practical exam taken by doctors who have completed MRCP Part 1 and Part 2 written successfully. This includes both UK-trained doctors and international medical graduates (IMGs). The purpose of PACES is to test the candidate’s ability to perform clinical examination and consultation skills to determine underlying diagnoses and synthesise management plans. Who undertakes the MRCP Diploma? MRCP PACES is the final of three exams on the journey towards the MRCP (UK) Diploma. It is completed after MRCP Part 1 and MRCP Part 2 Written, which candidates are eligible to attempt after having had at least 12 months of postgraduate medical experience (this usually means waiting until completion of FY1 in the UK). The MRCP Diploma is a post-graduate diploma designed to test the skills, knowledge, and behaviours of a doctor who wishes to undergo medical speciality training in the United Kingdom. Many doctors - within the UK and abroad - undertake the MRCP diploma even if it is not a training requirement in order to provide additional value to their portfolio, but also to develop their skills and knowledge further. In order to achieve this qualification, you have to sit and successfully pass three exams: MRCP Part 1 MRCP Part 2 Written MRCP Part 2 Clinical or ‘PACES’ Any doctor who wishes to start specialist registrar training in the UK within a physician or medical training programme must have completed all parts of the MRCP diploma in order to enter the relevant specialist training. The specialities where MRCP is a requirement are reproduced below: ! Exam Format - MRCP Part 2 Clinical (PACES) The aim of PACES is to ensure the candidate understands common and important disorders that they may come across during their specialist training, at an entry level, and how to manage them practically. In order to do this, PACES is designed as a practical, face-to-face ‘OSCE’ style examination designed to test the candidate’s ability to perform essential clinical skills across 5 stations lasting 20 minutes each. In total, you will meet 8 patients across these 5 stations (called ‘patient encounters’). Some of these stations are further broken down into 2 x 10 minute components. Each station is separated by a 5 minute rest, and each station is examined by 2 examiners. This format is referred to as the PACES carousel, pictured below. ! The exam consists of the following stations: 4 Examination stations: 6 minutes for the examination, where the candidate has to perform a clinical examination of one of the major organ systems 4 minutes for a structured viva where the examiner asks the candidate, usually, to summarise their findings, present a likely differential diagnosis, and also a management plan 2 communications stations: 10 minutes for the entire station, covering a range of possible topics, including difficult consultations such as breaking bad news or health behaviour change, as well as ethical and legal dilemmas There is no viva - 2 Consultation stations: 15 minutes for the consultation, where the candidate has to take a focused clinical history and perform a focused clinical examination, followed by an explanation of the likely diagnosis and next steps to the patient 5 minutes for a structured viva, where the examiner usually asks the candidate to summarise the case, provide a differential diagnosis, and management plan Exam Marking - MRCP Part 2 Clinical (PACES) As you rotate through the carousel, you hand one examiner at each station an envelope containing your marksheets. There are 16 marksheets within your envelope, one for each examiner, covering each patient encounter. A typical marksheet for the examination stations is shown below and the full range can be downloaded on the . The examiner will take out the relevant marksheet at the start of your station and begin assessing you when you start. ! At each patient encounter, one of 7 key clinical skills (A-G) are assessed by the examiners. You should note that not every skill is examined at every station, as some of the skills may not be relevant in the station. This is why you may notice some of these skills being absent on some of the marksheets. These skills are as follows: ! The examiner has to decide if they have seen the skill demonstrated or not, by scoring each skill as ‘satisfactory, borderline, or unsatisfactory’. The marksheets provide some explanatory text that may help the examiner make their decision; for example, as you can see below, finding clinical signs that are not present may result in an unsatisfactory mark being awarded in the physical signs (B) clinical skill: ! MRCP PACES Exam dates and Fees Plan ahead as there are only fixed periods of time (known as ‘diets’) when you can sit the exam, published by the Royal College of Physicians. The exam happens at hospital sites and the Royal College will almost always place you at a site away from your base hospital. You should therefore be prepared to travel, which can sometimes be quite a distance away. Application deadlines are usually several months in advance of the exam itself, so it is imperative to check ahead of time so you do not miss out on your desired date. You should check the current fees directly on the [RCP website] (https://www.mrcpuk.org/mrcpuk-examinations/paces/exam-dates-and-fees) as it may be subject to change. ! Results and unsuccessful attempts Results are published online, 15 working days after the last exam within the diet. The results release dates are available on the Royal College of Physicians website, so you have an idea of when to expect to hear if your attempt has been successful or not. In order to pass the MRCP PACES exam successfully, the candidate must: Obtain a minimum score of 130 out of a possible 172 Not fail any single clinical skill (i.e. a minimum score needs to be achieved for each clinical skill) It is therefore possible to fail an entire station and still pass PACES if the overall score and each individual clinical skill has been passed. Your results will be summarised on a matrix provided to you after the exam when results are announced. As you can see in this example matrix below, each encounter is scored, but the overall pass mark is determined by the candidate meeting the minimum mark across each individual clinical skill, plus an overall score of at least 130. ! All components of the MRCP diploma must be completed within 7 years of the candidate’s first successful attempt at the MRCP Part 1 examination. If unsuccessful, candidates are permitted a maximum number of 6 attempts. If the exam has not been passed after 6 attempts, then the candidate will need to be supported in additional training with appropriate evidence before further attempts are allowed. How to prepare The PACES revision materials at Quesmed are a great place to start your revision; with over 100 simulated clinical videos of typical encounters you may come across in the exam, as well as a dedicated reference textbook, it is a great place to get a sense of what you may come across and to kick-start your revision. But PACES is a difficult exam and your approach should be multi-faceted. To help you on your journey, we spoke to some top-performing doctors who completed the MRCP diploma for their tips and tricks when it comes to preparing. Here is what they advised: Leave plenty of revision time Ideally, you want to spend at least 6 months preparing for this exam This will give you plenty of time to not only learn the theory, but also start putting into practice what you have read Make sure you plan your revision strategy at the start so that you cover everything you need to in the time you have allowed for your revision Practice makes perfect Practice, practice, practice! Practice on real patients that you see on the medical take - approach them as you would a PACES patient by being systematic and thinking, ‘What else would I do if I were to encounter this patient in the exam?’ This allows time spent at work to be effective revision also But you don’t need to practice on patients alone; patients are a great source of clinical signs but it can be difficult to perfect your systematic, seamless examination skills on hospital patients Therefore, don’t hesitate to practice on your friends, family, and teddy bears! Getting your examination slick and effortlessly under 6 minutes is all about repetition, and healthy individuals (or teddies!) are a great way of perfecting this Seek out a PACES teaching group at your local hospital, and if there isn’t one, meet up with your colleagues regularly to go and see relevant patients on the wards By performing examinations or consultations as part of a group, you will gain confidence in performing in front of others and remaining calm and collected when being observed Watch Videos The Quesmed PACES revision tool will allow you to see a lot of the clinical signs and presentations that you will encounter in the exam from home It also provides a detailed reference textbook, which can help you learn the theory that will underpin your exam performance Obtaining a subscription to an online revision tool like this will help you take your revision to the next level and allow you to reinforce the signs and presentations you are seeing on real patients in hospital Don’t neglect the theory Good practical skills as well as the ability to formulate diagnoses and synthesise management plans depends on a good understanding of the underlying medicine So, don’t depend on in-hospital learning alone Find a good PACES textbook and learn the theory as well Then, put the theory into practice every day at work Time yourself Whether that’s through a formal mock test set up at your hospital, or through roping in friends and family - you should practice your skills under the time limits that you will face in the exam Remember, 6 minutes is a very short time to perform a full examination, and you need to be able to perform the examination effectively with minimal effort or much thought; this is so that you can really focus during the limited time on the clinical signs you are seeing, rather than what the next step would be in your examination Breaks and health Remember to take regular breaks and maintain your health This is a marathon, not a sprint Seek support from your friends, family, and colleagues at work if you are struggling Getting ready for exam day Here are some checklists for you to go through before and on the day of the exam to ensure you are ready for the day! Before the exam day: Review the [rules and regulations] (https://www.mrcpuk.org/mrcpuk-examinations/regulations) of the PACES exam Print and check your admission documents sent to you Plan your route to the exam centre and ensure you leave plenty of time for transport delays Ensure your photographic identification is ready to come with you - this needs to be an appropriate ID with your full name, signature, and photograph Ensure the name on your admission document matches the name on your ID, and contact the RCP if not as soon as possible Ensure you have leave arranged from your hospital to attend the exam On the exam day: Arrive in advance of the exam start time - an hour before the reporting time on your admission document Be aware that your bags, coats, and devices will have to be stored in a separate room Make sure you are dressed appropriately in a smart manner as you would for work, in clothes that allow you to move freely to examine patients (avoid tight or excessively flowing clothing) You can bring your own stethoscope but other equipment will be supplied if required; if you have any other medical equipment with you, you should let the lead examiner know and they can advise whether or not you should take it in with you Be aware of anything that might make it more difficult for you to demonstrate empathy and understanding in stations that require communication skills, for example a facial veil or dark glasses. If you do not clearly demonstrate these abilities, examiners will mark the corresponding skills as unsatisfactory References - - -

Quesmed MLA Content Map | UKMLA

Introduction The UK Medical Licensing Assessment (UKMLA), also known as MLA, is taken by all medical graduates who wish to practise medicine in the UK, regardless of whether they trained in the UK or abroad. The UKMLA is designed to assess the knowledge and skills of medical graduates to ensure that they meet the required standards for safe and effective practice as doctors. It is a new exam that the has introduced from 2024 onwards. The UKMLA consists of two main components: the Applied Knowledge Test (AKT) and the Clinical and Professional Skills Assessment (CPSA). For UK-based medical students, these are the equivalent of ‘Finals’ and ‘OSCEs/OSLERs’ respectively. For IMGs, these are very similar to PLAB 1 and PLAB 2 respectively. Content Map The GMC have produced a covering each specialty that will be examined in the UKMLA AKT and CPSA, consisting of core presentations and conditions for each. Although a long document, please don’t be alarmed - in the UK this is very much aligned with your medical school curricula and similarly if you have trained abroad this is likely to be the case too. The content map is based on the , the ’, and lastly, common scenarios you may face as a Foundation Doctor working in the UK. The Outcomes for Graduates refers to three themes which helped shape the UKMLA content map: 1. Readiness for safe practice 1. Managing uncertainty 1. Delivering person-centred care Additionally, the content map is then organised into six main domains: 1. Areas of clinical practice 1. Areas of professional knowledge 1. Patient presentations 1. Patient conditions 1. Clinical and professional capabilities 1. Practical skills and procedures Here’s an example of what you can find in the content map. At Quesmed, our knowledge library is aligned to the UKMLA, covering exactly what you need to know for the exam: ! Quesmed MLA Content Map At Quesmed, we have carried over all of the areas of clinical practice, core conditions and presentations from the MLA content map and brought it to life with several core features to help make your revision more targeted and effective. ! 1. Core conditions textbook You can now access our knowledge library entry for each condition directly via the content map by simply clicking the book icon on the right. This allows you to quickly access relevant content when going through the conditions in each area of clinical practice. Our content map is also fully searchable if you want to find exactly where each presentation and condition is located. ! 2. Question builder Our content map can also be used to build customised quizzes tailored to your exam preparation. You can select individual presentations, and/or conditions across multiple areas of clinical practice, if desired. This gives you maximum flexibility while also ensuring your revision is based on exactly what you need to know. ! 3. Question tags Our newly introduced question tag feature helps you understand where in the MLA content map each question is relevant to. Questions now have tags demonstrating the area of clinical practice, presentation and condition that they are relevant to, as well as their difficulty. This is particularly helpful for certain conditions which are not explicitly named in the content map, such as Atrial Fibrillation (likely under the umbrella condition ‘Arrhythmias’), that you would definitely need to know for your MLA AKT/CPSA. ! Conclusion Thanks for reading this overview of what the MLA content map is and how to get the most out of our content map feature. We hope this has helped shed light on what is a long and daunting document, and will help enhance your MLA AKT/CPSA preparation. If you have any questions about this, or any of our features please contact us at [email protected]. We wish you the very best of luck! References

The Ultimate MRCP Part 1 Online Revision Resources Guide

If you’re reading this blog post, you are probably trying to plan your revision strategy ahead of your upcoming MRCP Part 1 exam. We have already broken down the exam step-by-step for you in a , but here we will provide a detailed overview of what online resources you can use to prepare for this exam and pass with confidence. How do you revise best? Know your learning style! As you plan your revision, it is useful to first ask yourself, ‘How do I learn best?’ Some people are visual and auditory learners, others like to read and write. Some are very logical, using patterns and systems to develop an approach to learning, or like to work alone, while others like to work with others in groups. In reality, everyone learns differently, and most people are combination learners, moving between each learning style depending on their needs. You will find plenty of free materials online that can target each of your learning needs, where you need them. For example, there are videos available on YouTube or posts on social media such as Instagram, that will explain tricky concepts that you may have always struggled with. There are also many free applications that allow you to generate your own Anki flashcards, which can be useful to support your learning journey, as well as user experiences of the exam shared on Reddit or Twitter, to help you learn from their mistakes and plan your revision strategy going forwards. However, preparation for the MRCP Part 1 exam needs to be systematic, complete, and well-planned. The exam is challenging, with a pass rate of only around 50%-60%. As such, we would recommend using a dedicated online platform that has been designed to specifically walk you through the exam’s and meets all of your learning needs, whatever they are. The Best Online Resources 1. Quesmed.com Quesmed.com offers an all-in-one platform with an online textbook, video library, and extensive, blueprint-matched question bank, online and in a handy offline-ready app. This suits every learning style through its multi-media approach and allows you to revise the entire exam syllabus anywhere, anytime. Highlights: ✓ 6200+ Part 1 questions - covers the entire exam blueprint and allows you to practice the development of pattern recognition skills and logical learning styles ✓ Expanded question explanations - a detailed explanation works through why each question choice is right, or wrong, allowing you to develop the skills required to perfect single best-answer questions on the day ✓ Questions linked to relevant textbook chapter - after you finish each question, complete your revision on each topic as you go by reading the linked relevant chapter just below ✓ Customise and target your revision - online question builder can allow you to build your quizzes in any way you want, from a random selection to mimic the real exam, to targeting individual topics that you feel need more time and attention ✓ Extensive past paper library - based on previous themes that have emerged in the real exam ✓ Detailed online textbook - for the learner who likes to read and write, and to provide further detail to deepen your understanding of the exam blueprint ✓ Specialist-taught recorded lectures - recorded content covering tricky topic areas by specialty, ideal for everyone, and especially auditory and visual learners ✓ Handy app with both offline and online modes - you can take your revision with you anywhere now by simply carrying your device, so you can revise alone, or with others, and even when you’ve lost signal ✓ Doctor-driven content - by high-achieving doctors who have aced the exam themselves, for doctors ✓ Competitive and flexible pricing - pricing is £64.99 for a 3-month plan (compared with a minimum price point of £84.99 at Pastest.com, which is priced relative to a fixed exam date, and so is never cheaper than this - even if you are buying it with less than a month to go to the exam date.) There is also a monthly payment option of £39.99, which is not offered by most leading online platforms, including Pastest.com or Passmedicine.com. This can help you spread out the cost of an online revision resource, or allow you to only buy as much as you need. ✓ Money-back guarantee - if you use Quesmed.com to prepare for your MRCP Part 1 exam and you fail, you can get the full cost of your subscription refunded. 2. Pastest.com Pastest.com provides an impressive number of 7400+ questions covering the range of topics you will encounter on the exam, with an offline-ready app that allows you to revise on the go and the ability to filter the bank and build quizzes to target your revision. They also have many past papers that allow you to revise themes that have come up in previous exam sittings. Completing the Pastest question bank will likely expose you to most of the themes you may come across on the day, therefore! Each question is accompanied by an expanded explanation, which can allow you to understand the key learning points better. Their product is bundled into a handy app that is off-line ready. Drawbacks: ✖ No online textbook - Pastest.com do not offer an online textbook. If you want to use their textbook, you have to buy the physical version, which retails at £40. Their questions are furthermore not linked to any relevant textbook chapters. This may limit your ability to deepen your understanding of the relevant topics. ✖ No competitive and flexible pricing - Pastest.com has no option for a monthly subscription. Their fees are set relative to a fixed exam date, and the minimum price point is quite expensive at £84.99. ✖ No specialist-taught recorded lectures - Pastest.com do not offer recorded lectures delivered by high-achieving doctors. ✖ No money-back guarantee 3. Passmedicine.com Passmedicine.com is well-loved by many doctors who have sat the MRCP Part 1 exam. It has a user-friendly, intuitive interface which makes it very straightforward to revise and get to grips with. They have a question builder that allows you to filter the questions you want to see to target your revision. Furthermore, Passmedicine.com is well known for its competitive pricing, with subscriptions starting at £35. Question explanations are provided in greater detail below the main question with key facts about the diagnosis often being summarised. They also offer an online textbook. Drawbacks: ✖ Limited question bank size - Passmedicine.com has 4900 questions on their question bank, which may prevent your ability to cover the full blueprint and develop effective pattern recognition skills. ✖ No past papers - Though Passmedicine.com does offer 4 mock tests that try to replicate the real exam, they do not offer any past papers. Past papers are essential for you to get comfortable with the themes that have emerged in previous exam sittings. ✖ Suboptimal app - one of the biggest drawbacks of Passmedicine.com is its app. They have an app-like shortcut that can be added to your phone which provides off-line functionality. This experience is somewhat clunky, however, as its use is not as seamless as having a full app that is downloadable via the relevant application store on your phone. ✖ No specialist-taught recorded lectures - Passmedicine.com do not offer recorded lectures delivered by high-achieving doctors. ✖ No money-back guarantee 4. BMJ OnExamination BMJ OnExamination offers 3190 questions including mock tests based on recent exam themes. Their handy app and group study feature allows making your revision flexible and social. You can buy the question bank flexibly on a monthly basis if required as well, which allows you to tailor your access to revision materials, as and when you need them. Drawbacks: ✖ Limited question bank size - with only 3190 questions offered, you are less likely to cover the full blueprint and develop effective pattern recognition skills if you depend on BMJ OnExamination alone. ✖ Specialist-taught recorded lectures - BMJ OnExamination does not offer recorded lectures delivered by high-achieving doctors. ✖ No online textbook - BMJ OnExamination does not offer an online textbook. This means that if you want to read about a given topic in more detail, you will have to access additional learning materials to aid your revision. This can make it more difficult to revise using this platform as it does not offer an all-in-one learning experience. ✖ No money-back guarantee 5. StatPearls A US-based platform that boasts 3900+ questions that have been developed closely to match the style of the exam. With a money-back guarantee in place, they are confident that preparing with them will allow you to pass the exam with flying colours. Actionable intelligence is built into their platform to produce reports to help you target your revision areas. ✖ Limited question bank size - with only 3900+ questions offered, you are less likely to cover the full blueprint using this platform alone. ✖ No past papers - no mock tests made up of past papers; this means you are less likely to see previous exam themes, which can be recycled each year. ✖ No specialist-taught recorded lectures - there are no additional recorded lectures offered for the audio-visual learner. ✖ No online textbook - no associated online textbook is offered. This can make it more difficult to revise using this platform as it does not offer an all-in-one learning experience. ✖ No app - this can limit your ability to revise on the go. ✖ No money-back guarantee ✖ Non-competitive price point - starting at $199 for one month, this is one of the most expensive subscriptions that exists for this exam. 6. Royal College of Physicians The Royal College of Physicians (RCP) does offer a of 100 questions on their website. Though this is an important revision material that allows you to sample past questions from previous papers and get used to the style of the exam, it is certainly not an exhaustive learning resource. Summary There we have it! The best online revision resources for MRCP Part 1 in a nutshell. If you’re looking for an all-in-one platform that really does have it all, for every learning style, that is matched to the exam syllabus and will support all your learning needs at a reasonable price, you don’t need to look further than Quesmed.com. Here is a summarising table to remind you of all the features of the various online learning resources. | | Online textbook | Past papers | Lectures | App with offline mode | Money-back guarantee | Prices from | |-----------------------------|-----------------|-------------|----------|-----------------------|----------------------|-------------| | Quesmed | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | £39.99 | | Pastest | | ✓ | | ✓ | | £84.99 | | Passmedicine | ✓ | | | | | £35 | | BMJ OnExamination | | | | ✓ | | £37.99 | | StatPearls | | | | | ✓ | $199 | | Royal College of Physicians | | | | | | Free | Whatever strategy you choose, we wish you all the best in your exam preparation!

Free MRCP Part 1 Questions

Based on themes from previous exam sittings, we have put together a free past paper made of 100 questions to help you prepare for your upcoming MRCP Part 1 exam. These questions are not only representative of what has come up in the previous exams but are also written to closely match the style of what you will experience on the day. To try out this free MRCP Part 1 past paper, click the start test button above! MRCP Part 1 is a written exam taken by doctors who have completed a minimum of 12 months of postgraduate medical experience. This includes both UK-trained doctors and international medical graduates (IMGs). It is the first exam on the journey towards the MRCP (UK) Diploma which is a post-graduate diploma designed to test the skills, knowledge, and behaviours of a doctor who wishes to undergo medical speciality training in the United Kingdom. Click to sign up to our MRCP Part 1 and MRCP Part 2 question banks or PACES online videos.

How to Excel in Medical Exams | Proven Study Techniques for Success

Medical exams can be overwhelming due to the sheer content volume, but the right strategies can make a huge difference in your success. Whether you're preparing for the MLA AKT, OSCE or CPSA, MRCP, PLAB, or MSRA, the key to excelling is active learning, strategic revision, and consistent practice. This blog will explore proven study techniques to help you retain information better, improve recall, and boost exam performance. 1. Use Active Recall for Long-Term Retention Passive reading or highlighting notes may feel productive, but research shows that active recall is the most effective way to retain information. This technique involves actively retrieving information from memory rather than just reviewing it. How to Apply It: - Use Quesmed’s question banks to test yourself regularly. - Cover your notes and try to recall key points before checking your answers. - Use flashcards with spaced repetition to reinforce essential facts over time. Why It Works: Active recall strengthens neural pathways, making retrieving information during your exams easier. 2. Leverage Spaced Repetition for Maximum Efficiency Spaced repetition is a scientifically backed technique that involves reviewing information at increasing intervals to strengthen memory retention. How to Apply It: - Instead of cramming, review topics in a structured schedule. - Use Quesmed’s pre-built flashcards to test yourself daily. - Revise weaker topics more frequently to ensure mastery. Why It Works: Your brain consolidates information better when you space out your revision sessions instead of trying to absorb everything simultaneously. 3. Master SBAs and Clinical Scenarios with Qbanks Most medical exams, including the MLA AKT, MRCP, MSRA, and PLAB, rely on single-best answer (SBA) questions and clinical case scenarios. The best way to prepare is by using a realistic question bank that mimics the exam structure. How to Apply It: - Use Quesmed’s question banks to practice high-yield topics. - Simulate exam conditions with timed quizzes and mock tests. - Learn from detailed explanations to understand the rationale behind each answer. Why It Works: Practising with exam-style questions improves your ability to apply knowledge to clinical scenarios, a crucial skill for passing medical exams. 4. Reinforce Knowledge with the Feynman Technique If you can explain a complex medical concept in simple terms, you truly understand it. This is the core idea behind the Feynman Technique. How to Apply It: - Take a medical topic (e.g. heart failure management) and try to explain it to a non-medical friend. - Identify gaps in your knowledge and revisit those areas. - Use Quesmed’s Knowledge Library to clarify complex concepts. Why It Works: Teaching forces you to simplify and structure your knowledge, making recall easier during exams. 5. Simulate Exam Conditions with Timed Mocks Time management is critical in medical exams. Many candidates struggle to complete all questions due to poor pacing. How to Apply It: - Set a timer and attempt full-length mock exams. - Use Quesmed’s timed mock tests to develop exam stamina. - Identify which sections slow you down and adjust your strategy accordingly. Why It Works: Practising under timed conditions reduces anxiety and improves efficiency, ensuring you finish your exam on time. Conclusion Excelling in medical exams requires more than hard work — it requires innovative strategies. You can significantly improve your performance by using active recall, spaced repetition, question banks, and exam simulations. Quesmed’s comprehensive platform provides all the tools you need, from high-quality SBAs to flashcards and mock tests, to help you succeed. Start your free trial with Quesmed today and take your medical exam preparation to the next level!

How Quesmed Helps You Succeed in Medical Interviews & Specialty Training Applications

Securing a place in your desired medical speciality is highly competitive. Whether you're applying for Core Surgical Training (CST), Internal Medicine Training (IMT), Anaesthetics, Radiology, or Paediatrics, your interview is crucial. Quesmed question banks provide a structured, evidence-based approach to help you prepare for Multi-Specialty Recruitment Assessments (MSRA), CST, IMT, Anaesthetics, Radiology, and Paediatrics Interviews. Here’s how Quesmed can help you maximise your success. 1. Master Competency-Based Interview Questions Most medical interviews assess leadership, communication, problem-solving, and teamwork competencies. How Quesmed Helps: - Access hundreds of interview questions tailored for different specialities. - Learn how to structure responses using frameworks like STARR (Situation, Task, Action, Result, Reflection). - Gain insights from high-scoring candidates to understand what interviewers are looking for. Why It Works: Competency-based interviews require structured and well-articulated answers—preparing with realistic questions ensures confidence and clarity. 2. Get Expert Guidance on Clinical Scenarios Most speciality interviews include clinical scenario questions to assess decision-making, prioritisation, and ethical reasoning. How Quesmed Helps: - Gain access to speciality-specific clinical questions. - Learn step-by-step frameworks to tackle ethical dilemmas and emergencies. - Improve decision-making with case-based discussions guided by expert doctors. Why It Works: Practising with real clinical scenarios prepares you for on-the-spot thinking, which is critical in medical interviews. 3. Perfect Your MSRA Exam Strategy The Multi-Specialty Recruitment Assessment (MSRA) is a key factor in speciality applications for CST, Anaesthetics, Radiology, IMT, GP, and other training pathways. How Quesmed Helps: - Access high-yield MSRA questions covering clinical knowledge and situational judgment. - Learn effective time management strategies for single-best answer (SBA) questions. - Track progress with performance analytics to identify areas for improvement. MSRA performance directly impacts speciality ranking, so a structured revision plan is essential. 4. Learn from High-Scoring Past Candidates Understanding what works for successful candidates can give you a competitive edge. How Quesmed Helps: - View and learn from detailed interview model answers from doctors who secured top training spots. - Learn how candidates tackled challenging questions and structured their responses. - Gain insider tips on what assessors expect. Knowing what works in actual interviews helps refine your approach and build confidence. Conclusion Acing your medical specialty interview requires structured preparation, clinical knowledge, and strong communication skills. Quesmed’s MSRA prep and interview question banks provide everything you need to stand out. Sign up with Quesmed today and take the next step in your medical career with confidence!

From Theory to Practice: How to Apply Medical Knowledge in CPSAs (OSCEs)

The Clinical and Professional Skills Assessment (CPSA), often formerly referred to as the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE), is a critical part of medical training, assessing how well candidates can apply theoretical knowledge in real-life clinical scenarios. Unlike written exams, CPSA/OSCE stations require practical skills, communication, and decision-making under time constraints. This guide explores the best strategies to transition from theoretical learning to effective OSCE performance. Understanding the CPSA Format The CPSA is designed to test clinical competence through a series of stations, each assessing a different skill. These stations typically include: - History-taking from a patient or simulated patient - Physical examination of a specific system - Clinical procedures such as cannulation or catheterisation - Communication skills, including breaking bad news or discussing treatment plans - Data interpretation and decision-making How to Prepare: - Review the assessment criteria for each station type. - Familiarise yourself with the clinical skills checklist used by examiners. - Use case-based scenarios to practice real-world applications of medical theory. Mastering History-Taking and Communication Effective communication is one of the most heavily weighted aspects of the CPSA. Candidates must demonstrate active listening, empathy, and structured questioning. Key Techniques: - Follow a structured approach: SOCRATES for pain history, AMPLE for trauma assessment. - Use open-ended questions first before narrowing down to specifics. - Practice explaining medical conditions in simple, patient-friendly language. - Engage in role-playing exercises with colleagues to refine interpersonal skills. Performing Clinical Examinations with Confidence Physical examination stations assess how well candidates can perform system-based assessments while explaining their findings. Commonly tested examinations include cardiovascular, respiratory, neurological, and abdominal exams. Best Practices: - Use a systematic approach such as IPPA (Inspection, Palpation, Percussion, Auscultation) for general exams. - Narrate your actions as you perform them to show structured thinking. - Be mindful of professional etiquette, ensuring patient comfort and consent. Developing a Structured Approach for Clinical Procedures Medical procedures such as venepuncture, wound dressing, and IV cannulation are standard CPSA stations. These require precision, adherence to protocols, and patient safety awareness. Preparation Tips: - Break procedures into step-by-step sequences to ensure consistency. - Focus on infection control, sterility, and proper hand hygiene. - Use simulation tools and practice with actual equipment when possible. Enhancing Decision-Making and Data Interpretation Skills Some CPSA stations require candidates to interpret test results, ECGs, X-rays, or blood work and make appropriate clinical decisions. How to Improve: - Familiarise yourself with common lab findings and radiology patterns. - Apply a "pattern recognition" approach to identify key abnormalities quickly. - Practice clinical reasoning with past OSCE cases to develop structured responses. Practicing Under Exam Conditions Time management is crucial in CPSA stations, as candidates typically have 5–10 minutes per station. Practising under exam conditions can help build confidence and reduce anxiety. How to Simulate the Exam: - Time yourself during mock CPSA sessions to get used to pacing. - Work in study groups to receive feedback on strengths and weaknesses. - Use QUESMED’s OSCE station banks and mark schemes to track progress and practice with friends. Conclusion Excelling in the CPSA requires a blend of theoretical knowledge, structured clinical skills, and effective communication. Candidates can significantly enhance their performance by practising in a realistic setting, refining history-taking and examination techniques, and improving decision-making. Use QUESMED’s interactive CPSA/OSCE resources to streamline your preparation and maximise exam success.

The Ultimate UKMLA Study Plan: What to Revise and When

The UK Medical Licensing Assessment (UKMLA) is a mandatory exam for all medical graduates aiming to practise in the UK. With two key components—the Applied Knowledge Test (AKT) and the Clinical and Professional Skills Assessment (CPSA)—a structured study plan is essential for success. This guide provides a detailed timeline for what to revise and when to ensure candidates maximise their preparation. Understanding the UKMLA Structure Before creating a study plan, it’s essential to understand the exam format: - AKT: A written exam assessing medical knowledge across core clinical topics. - CPSA: A practical assessment similar to an OSCE, testing clinical and professional skills in real-world scenarios. The UKMLA aligns with the General Medical Council (GMC) curriculum, covering core medical knowledge, professional behaviour, and patient safety. Three-Month Study Plan for UKMLA Preparation Month 1: Building Strong Foundations Focus on understanding key medical concepts, reinforcing core knowledge, and identifying weak areas. - Study primary medical specialities according to the . - Use Quesmed’s Knowledge Library to review high-yield topics. - Begin practising SBA (Single Best Answer) questions daily. - Allocate time for active recall and spaced repetition using Quesmed’s flashcards. Month 2: Strengthening Clinical Application This phase should focus on applying knowledge to clinical cases and improving decision-making skills. - Increase the number of SBA practice questions to test the application of knowledge. - Engage in case-based discussions to develop structured diagnostic approaches. - Focus on clinical guidelines and national protocols, such as NICE guidelines. - Begin timed mock tests to simulate exam conditions and assess progress. Month 3: Intensive Exam Practice and Final Review As the exam approaches, focus on timed practice, revision of weak areas, and fine-tuning test-taking strategies. - Take full-length UKMLA mock exams to improve time management. - Review mistakes from practice tests and reinforce challenging topics. - Continue with active recall and flashcard-based revision for last-minute retention. - Prepare for the CPSA by practising clinical skills and communication scenarios. Key Areas to Focus on for UKMLA Success - Clinical Guidelines & Protocols: Knowledge of NICE guidelines and GMC standards is essential. - Statistics and Medical Ethics: Understand ethical dilemmas, patient safety, and be familiar with basic medical statistics including study design and calculations. - Diagnostic Reasoning & Investigations: Be familiar with interpreting test results, imaging, and lab findings. Strategies for Effective UKMLA Revision - Practice: Regular SBA practice is essential for developing exam confidence. - Follow a Structured Study Plan: Allocate specific topics to different weeks and adjust based on progress. - Simulate Exam Conditions: Timed tests will help with pacing and question comprehension. - Engage in Peer Discussions: Explaining concepts to others improves understanding and retention. Conclusion A well-structured study plan is key to passing the UKMLA. Candidates can confidently approach the exam by focusing on foundational knowledge, clinical application, and exam-style questions. Quesmed provides comprehensive UKMLA revision tools, including question banks, mock exams, and interactive learning resources. Start your UKMLA preparation today with a study plan that ensures success.