2025-04-23 | Category: Mrcog 2

📘 How to Prepare for MRCOG Part 1: Tips, Timelines, and Trusted Resources

The MRCOG Part 1 examination is the first step in becoming a Member of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. It assesses the basic and applied sciences essential to the understanding of clinical practice in obstetrics and gynaecology. While foundational, it is also rigorous and demands consistent study and strategy.

This guide provides an in-depth roadmap on how to prepare effectively, with tips, timelines, and the best resources to maximize your success.

🧠 What Does MRCOG Part 1 Cover?

The exam evaluates your understanding of basic sciences, including:

• Anatomy
• Physiology
• Pharmacology
• Embryology
• Biochemistry
• Genetics
• Pathology
• Microbiology
• Endocrinology
• Statistics and Clinical Epidemiology

The emphasis is on clinical relevance, not just theory. You are expected to apply your scientific knowledge to problem-solving within obstetrics and gynaecology.

📝 Exam Format at a Glance

• Two written papers, both taken on the same day:
• 📄 Paper 1: Single Best Answer (SBA) questions – 100 questions, 2.5 hours
• 📄 Paper 2: SBA questions – 100 questions, 2.5 hours
• All questions are SBA format (no EMQs), each testing applied knowledge and reasoning

📅 Suggested 6-Month Study Timeline

🔄 Review high-yield topics every 2–3 weeks to maintain memory retention.

🎯 Top Study Tips

✅ 1. Structure Your Time with Weekly Goals

• Break down the RCOG syllabus into weekly study chunks
• Allocate dedicated time for practice questions and content review

🗓️ Example weekly plan:

• Mon–Wed: Read and annotate core topics
• Thu–Fri: Practice 50 SBAs with feedback
• Sat–Sun: Review notes + mock test (alternate weekends)

✅ 2. Master Core Resources

✅ 3. Practice, Practice, Practice

• Aim for at least 3,000–4,000 questions over your prep period
• Do timed blocks (50 SBAs in 60 minutes) to simulate real exam pressure
• Always review explanations, even for correct answers

✅ 4. Leverage Mnemonics and Visual Aids

• Use apps like Anki or Quizlet for flashcards
• Diagrams, flowcharts, and tables can simplify complex subjects (e.g., fetal circulation, pelvic anatomy)

Example:

• Mnemonic for TORCH infections: Toxoplasmosis, Other (syphilis), Rubella, CMV, Herpes

✅ 5. Join Study Communities

• Connect with others via:
• Telegram groups
• Facebook MRCOG prep groups
• Reddit forums (r/ObGyn, r/medicalschool)

Benefits:

• Peer motivation
• Clarifying difficult concepts
• Getting recent exam recalls and updates

✅ 6. Take Mock Exams Every 4 Weeks

• Full-length mocks improve:
• Time management
• Stamina
• Test-taking strategy

Track scores and use them to shape your revision:

• < 60%: Review content gaps
• 60–75%: Strengthen weak topics
• 75%: Focus on refining technique

❌ Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• ❌ Cramming: MRCOG Part 1 needs long-term consolidation
• ❌ Skipping SBA practice: Familiarity with question logic is critical
• ❌ Over-reliance on reading: Active recall is far more effective than passive study
• ❌ Ignoring stats and anatomy: These are heavily tested and often overlooked

📥 Resources from MRCOG PASS EXAMINATIONS

We offer:

• ✅ Study planners and topic-wise revision sheets
• ✅ GTG + SBA-based flashcards
• ✅ Weekly quizzes and mock drills
• ✅ Peer-led support groups
• ✅ “Ask a Mentor” drop-in clinics

🔗 Join our free Telegram community or explore full prep packages at passexaminations.com

💡 Final Words

MRCOG Part 1 is your gateway to specialist training. Think of it as building your clinical compass—every question you solve helps shape your future practice. With consistent effort, structured planning, and the right resources, you can crack this exam confidently.

📣 Believe in the process, and let every day of study move you one step closer to MRCOG success!