Ace the MRCS Part A Exam: Top Resources and Techniques from Mediword

Preparing for the MRCS Part A exam can feel overwhelming. The syllabus is broad, the competition is high, and the stakes are important for your surgical career. But with the right approach, reliable resources, and effective exam techniques, you can confidently clear this stage.

At Mediword, we understand the needs of UK medical students and junior doctors who want accurate, recall-based questions aligned with NICE and GMC guidelines. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the MRCS Part A exam, explore MRCS Part A sample questions, and share proven strategies to help you pass on your first attempt.

What is the MRCS Part A Exam?

The Membership of the Royal Colleges of Surgeons (MRCS) Part A exam is the first step towards becoming a member of the surgical colleges in the UK. It’s a written, computer-based exam that tests your knowledge of applied basic sciences and principles of surgery.

• Format: Multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and extended matching questions (EMQs).
• Duration: Two papers, each lasting around 3 hours.
• Content: Basic sciences (anatomy, physiology, pathology) and principles of surgery in general.

In simple terms, MRCS Part A checks whether you have the core knowledge required for safe surgical practice.

Why is the MRCS Part A Exam Important?

For junior doctors aiming for a surgical career, passing MRCS Part A is essential. It:

• Proves your knowledge of surgical principles.
• Is required for progression in surgical training.
• Gives you recognition across the four Royal Colleges of Surgeons in the UK and Ireland.

Without passing Part A, you cannot progress to MRCS Part B, which is the clinical and practical component.

MRCS Part A Exam Structure

Understanding the structure is the first step to preparing effectively:

Paper 1 – Applied Basic Sciences

• Anatomy
• Physiology
• Pathology

Paper 2 – Principles of Surgery in General

• Surgical pathology
• Perioperative care
• Trauma
• Critical care

Each paper is equally weighted, and both must be passed to succeed overall.

How to Prepare for the MRCS Part A Exam

1. Understand the Syllabus

Read through the official MRCS Part A syllabus carefully. It outlines what you’re expected to know, from detailed anatomy to principles of patient safety.

2. Use High-Yield Revision Resources

Not all resources are equally effective. Focus on ones that give you recall-based practice and align with GMC and NICE guidelines.

This is where Mediword comes in—providing targeted questions that mirror the exam format.

3. Practise with MRCS Part A Sample Questions

Doing MRCS Part A sample questions helps you:

• Get familiar with the exam format.
• Spot recurring themes.
• Identify your weak areas.

4. Focus on Recall and Repetition

The exam is recall-heavy. The more questions you practise, the more patterns you’ll recognise.

5. Plan Your Time Wisely

• Start early—at least 3–6 months before the exam.
• Divide your time between basic sciences and principles of surgery.
• Schedule regular question practice and mock exams.

Top Resources for MRCS Part A Preparation

There are many books and online platforms available, but not all are equally reliable. Here are some of the most recommended resources:

1. Mediword (Your Trusted Exam Partner)

At Mediword, we specialise in recall-based, exam-focused content. Our MRCS Part A sample questions are carefully designed to match the exam style and are constantly updated in line with NICE and GMC guidelines.

Why choose Mediword?

• Questions based on real exam recalls.
• Easy-to-use platform.
• Concise explanations—focused on what you need to know.
• Efficient revision for busy junior doctors.

2. Standard Textbooks

• Basic Sciences for the MRCS by Andrew Raftery.
• Principles of Surgery by Bailey & Love.

These are useful for deep understanding but can be time-consuming.

3. Question Banks

A question bank is essential. Practising under timed conditions helps replicate the real exam experience. Mediword is a top choice here due to its accurate recall-based questions.

4. Guidelines and Clinical Protocols

Since many questions are based on current practice, reading updated NICE guidelines is key.

MRCS Part A Sample Questions (Example)

Here are a few MRCS Part A sample questions to give you an idea:

Question 1:

A 55-year-old man presents with right upper quadrant pain and fever. Ultrasound shows gallstones. What is the most appropriate management?

A. Oral antibiotics only

B. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy

C. ERCP with sphincterotomy

D. Open cholecystectomy

(Answer: B. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy – gold standard for symptomatic gallstones.)

Question 2:

Which nerve supplies the deltoid muscle?

A. Axillary nerve

B. Radial nerve

C. Musculocutaneous nerve

D. Suprascapular nerve

(Answer: A. Axillary nerve.)

These illustrate the style of questioning you’ll face in the exam.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in MRCS Part A Preparation

Ignoring Basic Sciences

Many junior doctors focus too much on clinical content. But remember—basic sciences form half the exam.

Cramming Too Late

Last-minute cramming doesn’t work. Regular, steady revision is key.

Using Outdated Materials

The exam is updated regularly. Stick to resources like Mediword that reflect current guidelines.

Not Practising Enough Questions

Reading theory alone is not enough. Question practice is the best preparation.

How to Use Mediword for MRCS Part A Success

Mediword is designed with junior doctors in mind. Here’s how to use it effectively:

Start with Baseline Questions

Identify your strengths and weaknesses.

Use Topic-Wise Revision

Work through anatomy, physiology, pathology, and surgical principles in blocks.

Take Timed Mock Tests

This helps you get used to exam conditions.

Review Explanations Carefully

Even if you get a question right, read the explanation—this reinforces learning.

Tips for Exam Day

• Arrive early and stay calm.
• Read each question carefully.
• Manage your time—don’t spend too long on one question.
• Stay hydrated and well-rested.

Why Mediword is the Best Choice for MRCS Part A Preparation

• Tailored for UK students and junior doctors.
• Accurate recall-based questions.
• Aligned with GMC and NICE guidelines.
• Efficient and reliable.

In short, Mediword saves you time and gives you exactly what you need to pass.

Conclusion

The MRCS Part A exam is challenging but absolutely achievable with the right preparation. By focusing on high-yield content, practising with MRCS Part A sample questions, and using reliable resources like Mediword, you’ll give yourself the best chance of success.

Remember: consistent practice, exam-focused resources, and confidence on the day make all the difference.