Leading up to the exam
Your wellbeing
Look for ways you can better look after yourself in the lead up to your exam. Exercising, eating well and getting enough sleep are important. Some people find meditation or relaxation techniques helpful.
If you’re struggling with exam anxiety, you’re not alone and we're here to help. Contact the RACP Support Program for support, coaching and counselling.
Practice
One of the biggest pieces of advice we receive from trainees who have passed the exam, is the importance of practice.
For some, this means taking opportunities to receive feedback from multiple sources on short and long practice cases.
For others the quality of practice opportunities took precedence over quantity – finding the right patients and consultants, sticking to timings in presentations and asking for constructive feedback on clinical approaches and presentations.
Many trainees felt coaching on how to structure their presentations was critical to their success.
We're preparing videos and guidelines on how best to practice for Short Cases using the patients you see in your everyday work.
Join a study group
The shared experience of studying with others has helped many trainees feel more motivated, confident and on-track during the crucial preparation period. Many created or joined a group that was supportive, met regularly, shared resource ideas and provided an environment for constructive feedback.
Find a mentor
Trainees with mentors felt the feedback they received was effective and targeted development in key areas. Although these trainees practiced with a variety of consultants, the regular check-ins with a mentor helped to pinpoint improvements and areas for further development.
Some trainees benefit from having their mentor, a supervisor or a senior registrar sit in with them as they gather the history and examination in the long case.