This revision guide addresses the knowledge, skills, attitudes and competencies needed in preparation for the Part 3 MRCOG clinical assessment (the Part 3 exam). By using this book and the accompanying video resources at an early stage, exam candidates will have the best chance of honing their core clinical skills in preparation for the Part 3 exam. This chapter starts with a very brief summary of all three elements of the MRCOG examination. Further details can be found on the RCOG website (www.rcog.org.uk/en/careers-training/mrcog-exams).

The Format of the MRCOG Examination

The MRCOG examination consists of three parts and is set at the standard of a competent year-five specialty trainee (ST5). In training in obstetrics and gynaecology in the UK, the transition from ST5 to ST6 marks the completion of core training and the start of advanced skills training prior to the certificate of completion of training (CCT) at the end of ST7, and the move to independent practice as a consultant. A UK trainee who has completed five years of structured training should be able to manage the majority of problems encountered on the delivery suite, most common gynaecological emergencies and be able to run general gynaecological and antenatal clinics with minimal or indirect supervision. In addition, an ST5 trainee will have a working knowledge of most subspecialist practice even if they cannot manage those cases independently. Figure 1.1 shows the position of the Part 3 MRCOG examination within the UK Specialty Training Programme.

Over the years, the format of the examination has changed a number of times in line with developments in postgraduate medical education in order to ensure that the examination remains a rigorous assessment of competence. Each change is approved by the General Medical Council (GMC) and based in sound educational theory. The MRCOG examination is rigorously quality assured on an ongoing basis by the Examination and Assessment Committee and the Education Quality Assurance Committee.

The current format of the MRCOG examination consists of three parts, each of which was extensively piloted and analysed before being approved by the GMC and implemented.