What is MRCP Part 1?

TL;DR

If you are asking what is MRCP Part 1, it is the first written examination in the Membership of the Royal Colleges of Physicians (UK) pathway. It tests broad knowledge of basic medical sciences and clinical concepts across specialties, focusing on clinical reasoning rather than rote recall. The exam is a critical first step for international doctors aiming for postgraduate recognition in the UK.

Why this matters

MRCP Part 1 is often the first international exam attempted by doctors seeking recognition in the UK and abroad. It sets the foundation for higher specialist training and demonstrates competence in applying clinical sciences to practice. Without a clear understanding of what the exam covers, candidates risk under-preparation and repeated attempts. This guide explains the scope, structure, and strategies to help you plan.

Core sections

What MRCP Part 1 is

• The first written exam of the MRCP(UK) series.

• Designed to test a doctor’s ability to apply medical knowledge and understanding of basic science to clinical practice.

• Acts as a screening stage for progression to Part 2 Written and PACES.

  
  

Format overview

1. Number of papers: Two papers in one day.

2. Questions: Each paper contains 100 best-of-five MCQs.

3. Duration: 3 hours per paper.

4. Scoring: No negative marking.

5. Content: Mix of basic sciences (20–30%) and clinical medicine (70–80%).

   
   

High-yield topics (commonly tested)

While all specialties appear, some dominate question sets:

1. Cardiology

2. Clinical pharmacology & therapeutics

3. Neurology

4. Gastroenterology

5. Respiratory medicine

Other subjects like endocrinology, nephrology, psychiatry, and infectious diseases are also included, but the “big five” consistently yield the highest number of questions.

Typical subject breakdown

Subject	Approximate Weighting
Cardiology	15–17%
Gastroenterology	13–15%
Respiratory medicine	10–12%
Neurology	10–12%
Clinical pharmacology	10–12%
Others (endocrine, renal, psychiatry, etc.)	Remaining balance

Practical examples / mini-cases

Mini-MCQA 52-year-old man with long-standing hypertension develops sudden left-sided weakness and expressive aphasia. CT brain shows an infarct in the distribution of the left middle cerebral artery. Which is the most likely additional finding?

A. Homonymous hemianopiaB. Global aphasiaC. HemiballismusD. Internuclear ophthalmoplegia

Answer: A. An MCA infarct often produces contralateral weakness, aphasia (if dominant hemisphere), and homonymous hemianopia.

Why this matters: MRCP Part 1 questions integrate neurology, pathology, and radiology into clinical scenarios rather than testing isolated facts.

Practical study-tip checklist

• ✅ Begin preparation at least 3–4 months before the exam.

• ✅ Use a QBank with timed blocks to simulate exam conditions.

• ✅ Dedicate weekly slots for high-yield topics: cardiology, gastroenterology, neurology.

• ✅ Review explanations carefully — they often cover adjacent topics.

• ✅ Attempt full-length mock tests to improve stamina and time management.

• ✅ Supplement practice with structured lectures to consolidate tricky areas.

  
  

Common pitfalls

• ❌ Overemphasising rare conditions while neglecting common internal medicine topics.

• ❌ Memorising facts without applying them to clinical cases.

• ❌ Ignoring time management — running out of time is common.

• ❌ Not reviewing incorrect answers systematically.

• ❌ Attempting the exam too early without sufficient clinical exposure.

  
  

FAQs

1. What is MRCP Part 1 and why is it important?

It is the first exam in the MRCP(UK) series, testing applied medical knowledge. Passing it is essential to progress to Part 2 and PACES.

2. How many questions are in MRCP Part 1?

There are 200 questions, split into two three-hour papers of 100 questions each.

3. Is there negative marking in MRCP Part 1?

No, answers are scored positively only, so you should attempt every question.

4. Which subjects are most tested in MRCP Part 1?

Cardiology, gastroenterology, respiratory medicine, neurology, and clinical pharmacology form the bulk of questions.

5. How should I start preparing for MRCP Part 1?

Begin with a QBank, structure a 12-week study plan, and regularly review errors. Crack Medicine’s Free MRCP MCQs are a good starting point.

Ready to start?

Understanding what is MRCP Part 1 is the first step; preparing smartly is what gets you through. Crack Medicine provides free teaching videos, structured paid lectures, and a dedicated app with QBank, explanations, and monthly mocks. Build your confidence by starting today — try our Free MRCP MCQs or Start a mock test now.

Sources

• MRCP(UK) official exam format and regulations.

• Crack Medicine internal teaching resources.

• General Medical Council (UK) training pathway guides.