There are many ways to organise your study to prepare for the primary exam, here's one:

• • Plan your timeline. If you have not done much anaesthetic training prior to commencing your training, you should begin by focusing on completing your IAAC first. It may be more suitable to sit your primary exam in the first sitting of your second year to allow time to get used to the job before stressing about the exam. The ANZCA Primary exam is held twice a year and comprises of a written component (SAQ, MCQ) and a viva component. Once you've decided on which sitting you will take, map out your study plan to reduce stress and need for last minute cramping. 

  • SAQ: There are two methods of study: one focusing on preparing for the SAQ by preparing model answers or focusing on preparing based on curriculum. I recommend getting to know the curriculum and use it as a framework to study so you can cover as much as possible. Then follow this by SAQ preparation (content and technique practice). SAQ practice should start at least 5 months before the exam to allow adequate time. There are several sources of pre-made SAQ model answers, such as this and past questions (including examiner reports) are published here. 

  • MCQ: Before bedtime, spend 30 - 60 mins to prepare for the MCQ by using the app called CRAM (search for ANZCA primary within the app). Many people create study groups and spend countless hours debating the intricate details of remembered questions but I think this is a waste of time. Practice, read up a little bit then move on. Unfortunately ANZCA does not publish old questions. 

  • Study groups: this can either work really well or just be a waste of time depending on who you have in the group. If you plan to have a study group, lay out ground rules and have an agenda for each meeting. To get through the vast amounts of SAQ and the syllabus, dividing them up is a good idea. Do not waste time arguing about minutiae. 

  • Don't forget to pace your study, you don't want to burn out before the exam. Don't forget your family and friends still exist!

  • Buy a good pen! 

  • Useful resources:

    • ANZCA Networks

    • https://anzcaprimarynotes.com/ 

    • https://primarysaqs.wordpress.com/

    • https://primarydailylo.files.wordpress.com/2018/03/a-primer-for-the-primary-fanzca-examination-1.pdf

    • https://primarydailylo.wordpress.com/