Reflecting on my first attempt at the MRCS Part B exam, I am reminded of a powerful truth – the same tactics that brought me success in the past do not guarantee it in the future. Working hard with the wrong strategy is a guarantee for failed outcomes. I learned this the hard way.
My first attempt pass at the MRCS Part A exam gave me the confidence to book the Part B exam 3 months later. I embarked on a rigorous study regimen for Part B. I enrolled in two different question banks, eMRCS and Pastest, and dutifully devoted 2-4 hours daily to answering the practice questions. I also spent time honing my clinical skills every other weekend with a colleague from my home country who was, however, unfamiliar with the MRCS exam. In addition, I took a one-day online practice course and a separate anatomy course (Wade anatomy) by the RCS Edinburgh. I spoke with two colleagues who had passed the exam before; they gave me vague advice, but I felt I had covered all bases.
My exam was scheduled at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, I travelled to Edinburgh 2.5 weeks before the test to avoid any potential logistical challenges. While in Edinburgh, I spent my time doing more of the same, i.e. reading in the University library and at my accommodation. Unexpectedly, the day before my exam, I met online (via Linkedin) a Kenyan doctor working at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh. This interaction shifted my perspective 360 degrees. He revealed common pitfalls, free online resources (https://examqna.wordpress.com/), and provided me with exam-like scenarios, especially for communication stations. I realised, belatedly, that my study and practice strategy had been inadequate. Despite my substantial knowledge, I struggled to deliver responses to questions and was off with timing. In essence, I was not prepared.
Clinging to hope, I went into the exam the next day, but I knew I was in trouble from the outset. During the test, I fumbled and drew blanks when giving responses. For weeks after the test, I kept on reflecting on what I could have done better, replaying snippets of the exam like nightmares. A month later, the verdict was out, and as I expected, I did not pass the exam. I failed to obtain the minimum threshold score required in the communication section by a mere two points. This was a harsh yet necessary experience, albeit one that pierced my confidence and forced me to accept my flaws and recalibrate my approach. I had failed, but I had learned.
Despite the crushing blow, within two days, I had made up my mind to retake the test and immediately re-booked my second attempt for three months later. Understanding that the clock was ticking, I now needed to optimise my time and strategy.
