How to pass FRCPath Part 1

Submitted by amh10 on 2 December, 2007 - 23:03

I thought that I would share with you my tips for passing Part 1 in Medical Microbiology & Virology. Here are my ten top tips.

  1. Assume NOTHING. Whatever you thought you knew, you may not know it now.
  2. Find a good textbook. For me, Levinson was the best book. Small, not particularly detailed, but filled with MCQs and EMQs.
  3. Find a reliable study partner.
  4. It is breadth of knowledge that is important not depth.
  5. Laboratory identification in the key. Make sure that you read the HPA's Standard Operating Prodecures.
  6. Learn all about selective media. See this post for details.
  7. Don't neglect key areas. The last exam was 40% bacteriology, with 60% comprising of virology and parasitology.
  8. Find as may MCQs as possible. The USMLE Step1 MCQ books can easily be purchased. Use the internet - there are lots of MCQs out there!
  9. Invest in microbiology flashcards. These can make all the difference right up until you enter the exam hall.
  10. As with most things in life, you can't plan for every outcome. ALWAYS make sure you have a back up plan and keep all of your materials, at least for you collegues if not for yourself.

Good Luck!

AMH.

P.S.: You can download my PDF revision checklist here.

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