- May 22, 2025
- Posted by: Kolsuma Ali
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Passing PLAB 1 isn’t about studying harder — it’s about studying smarter. If you’re just starting out or feeling overwhelmed by all the resources out there, here’s a clear study strategy, including the best materials and a practical schedule to follow.
Understand the Exam Format
- Type: Multiple-choice (Single Best Answer, SBA)
- Questions: 180 questions
- Duration: 3 hours
- Focus: Clinical scenarios reflecting UK practice at FY2 (Foundation Year 2) level
High-Yield Study Resources
Here’s what you actually need:
- NHS Clinical Guidelines – Focus on common conditions (hypertension, asthma, diabetes).
- PLAB 1 Notes- Use only one for theory review.
- Nice-to-Have: Oxford Handbook of Clinical Medicine (for deeper understanding).
High-Yield Topics
| Medicine | Paediatrics | Obstetrics & Gynaecology | Psychiatry | Ethics & Law (very important) | Surgery & Trauma |
| Cardiology | Growth & development milestones | Antenatal care | Depression | GMC Good Medical Practice | Acute abdomen |
| Respiratory | Common infections (e.g. meningitis) | Labour & delivery complications | Anxiety | Confidentiality and consent | Head injuries |
| Neurology | Neonatal jaundice | Contraception and menopause | Schizophrenia | Child and vulnerable adult safeguarding | Head injuries |
| Endocrinology | Capacity and consent | Death and DNACPR decisions | |||
| Gastroenterology | |||||
| Gastroenterology |
8-Week Sample Study Schedule
| Week | Focus |
| 1-2 | Complete first round of Chequers question bank + review notes alongside |
| 3-4 | Start revising weak areas + make flashcards for tricky concepts |
| 5-6 | Second round of Chequers question bank + timed mock tests |
| 7 | Focus on mocks + review mistakes only |
| 8 | Final week: one full mock daily + last-minute notes |
Revise your mistakes. That’s where real learning happens.
4. Tips for Staying on Track
- Use Chequers webinar sessions to stay focused
- Join Chequers Whatsapp discussions
- Stick to one main Chequers Question bank and one main notes source– check out our free PLAB trial questions
Final Words
Consistency beats intensity. You don’t have to study 10 hours a day — 3–5 focused hours daily over 2 months is enough if you use the right resources and track your progress.
You’ve got this. Stick to the plan, review your mistakes, and walk into the exam with confidence.
