How to Pass FCPS Part 1 in First Attempt: The Ultimate 3-Month Study Plan (2026)

Passing the CPSP FCPS Part 1 exam is the biggest hurdle for Pakistani doctors aiming for specialization. With a passing rate often hovering around 15-20%, the key isn't just "working hard"—it's working smart.

Whether you are preparing for Medicine, Dentistry, or Surgery, this guide breaks down exactly how to structure your preparation for the 2026 sessions.

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Phase 1: Gather Your Resources (The "Right" Books)

Before starting your schedule, you need standard verified resources.

For Concept Building (Theory):

• Anatomy: Mini Snell (Must for Gross Anatomy) or Kaplan.
• Physiology: BRS Physiology or First Aid.
• Pathology: Pathoma (Excellent for concepts) or Goljan.

For Practice (MCQs & Past Papers):

• Past Papers: Golden Files or SK Pearls (Essential for identifying repeat questions).
• Smart Practice: Part1PK App – Use this to test yourself daily. Unlike books, the App shuffles questions so you don't just memorize the position of the answer.

Phase 2: The 3-Month Study Schedule

Month 1: The Foundation (Theory Mode)

Focus on the "Big Three": Anatomy, Physiology, and Pathology.

• Morning (4 Hours): Anatomy. It has the highest weightage in Paper 1. Focus on Upper/Lower limbs and Thorax.
• Evening (3 Hours): Physiology. Do system-wise study (e.g., if you study Heart Anatomy in the morning, do CVS Physiology in the evening).
• Night (1 Hour): Active Recall. Do 50 Random MCQs on the Part1PK App related to what you studied today.

Month 2: Minor Subjects & Past Papers

Now, shift gears to Paper 2 subjects and start solving Past Papers.

1. Week 1-2: Cover Biochemistry, Microbiology, Pharmacology, and Biostatistics.
2. Week 3-4: Start solving Golden Files.

Month 3: The "Exam Mode" (Mock Tests)

This is where students fail or succeed. You must train your brain for the CBT (Computer Based Testing) environment.

• Daily Routine: Attempt 2 full Mock Exams (200 MCQs) daily.
• Time Management: Train yourself to finish 100 MCQs in 90 minutes.
• Weakness Analysis: Use the App’s analytics. If you are consistently scoring low in Embryology, stop taking full tests and spend 2 days just on Embryology MCQs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Relying on Static PDF Files

Many students download static FCPS Part 1 MCQs PDF files from WhatsApp groups.

• The Risk: These PDFs often have "Wrong Keys" (incorrect answers). Memorizing a wrong answer is worse than not knowing it!
• The Fix: Use a verified platform where answers are cross-checked by supervisors.

2. Skipping "Minor" Subjects

Subjects like Biostatistics and Genetics may seem small, but they are "mark-boosters". They are easy to master and can save your aggregate if your Anatomy paper is tough.

3. Ignoring the Exam Pattern

Remember, the Pakistan CPSP exam has NO Negative Marking. Never leave a question blank. If you don't know the answer, make an educated guess.