As the RACGP or ACRRM Fellowship exams approach, it’s essential to optimize your final preparation. While it’s too late for comprehensive revision, these 13 strategies can help you maximize your performance and confidence on exam day.

1. Practice Mindful Breathing
   Take regular breaks to focus on deep, slow breathing. This simple technique can significantly reduce stress and improve concentration, as noted by the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) in their exam preparation guidelines.
2. Target Key Weaknesses
   Identify and review one or two critical areas of weakness. The GP Institute of Australia recommends focusing on high-yield topics that frequently appear in exams.
3. Utilize Official Exam Resources
   Review past exam reports and guidelines provided by your college. These resources offer valuable insights into examiner expectations and common pitfalls.
4. Prioritize Self-Care
   Maintain a balanced routine of sleep, nutrition, and light exercise. The Australian Medical Council emphasizes the importance of physical well-being for optimal cognitive function during exams.
5. Understand Exam Format
   Familiarize yourself with the exam structure, timing, and question types. This knowledge can significantly reduce anxiety on the day.
6. Develop a Time Management Strategy
   Calculate the time available per question and plan accordingly. The GP Institute of Australia offers workshops on effective time management strategies for Fellowship exams.
7. Read Questions Carefully
   Pay close attention to the wording of each question. Misinterpretation is a common pitfall identified in RACGP exam reports.
8. Answer Every Question
   For multiple-choice exams, always provide an answer, even if unsure. There’s no penalty for incorrect responses.
9. Communicate Clearly in Clinical Scenarios
   In role-playing situations, articulate your thought process clearly. The GP Institute of Australia’s mock exam sessions provide practice in this crucial skill.
10. Apply Real-World Reasoning
    Approach questions as you would real clinical scenarios. Consider patient context and available resources.
11. Manage Exam Anxiety
    Use relaxation techniques if stress builds during the exam. The Department of Health’s General Practice Training program recommends practicing these techniques regularly before the exam.
12. Maintain a Positive Mindset
    Cultivate self-belief and positive self-talk. Confidence can significantly impact performance.
13. Prepare Logistically
    Double-check exam times and locations. Arrive early to avoid unnecessary stress.

How the GP Institute of Australia Supports Exam SuccessThe GP Institute of Australia offers comprehensive support for Fellowship exam preparation:

1. Targeted Revision Workshops: Focus on high-yield topics and common exam pitfalls.
2. Mock Exam Sessions: Practice under exam-like conditions to build confidence and refine timing.
3. One-on-One Coaching: Personalized guidance to address individual weaknesses and anxiety management.
4. Online Resources: Access to up-to-date study materials aligned with current exam formats.
5. Time Management Seminars: Learn effective strategies to optimize performance under pressure.

By leveraging these resources and implementing the strategies outlined above, candidates can approach their Fellowship exams with confidence and preparedness. Remember, effective last-minute preparation is about refining your knowledge and exam technique, not cramming new information.References:Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. (2023). Fellowship Examination Guidelines. RACGP.GP Institute of Australia. (2024). Comprehensive Exam Preparation Resources. GP Institute of Australia.Australian Medical Council. (2023). Standards for Assessment in General Practice Training. AMC.Department of Health. (2023). General Practice Training in Australia: Pathways to Fellowship. Australian Government.Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine. (2024). Fellowship Exam Preparation Guide. ACRRM.