FCPS Part 1 Exam in Dentistry (CPSP)
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1. When to Attempt the Exam
The guide emphasizes mental readiness and financial caution over rushing.
- Don’t Rush: It is not a race; you should only take the exam when you genuinely have the energy and focus.
- Financial Consideration: The exam is expensive (approx. 25,000 Rs), which is a significant burden for middle-class candidates. Do not feel pressured to attempt it just because friends are doing so.
- Mental State: Ensure your mind is focused before committing. If you are facing life difficulties or lack the mental space, it is better to wait.
2. Recommended Study Hours
The required study time depends on when you start your preparation:
- Standard Schedule: If you start from the beginning, 7-8 hours of study per day is sufficient.
- Crunch Schedule: If you start late or get distracted, you must be strict. The guide recommends 13 hours of study per day, leaving 8 hours for sleep and 3 hours for meals/breaks.
- Strict Social Detox: In this scenario, avoid all social gatherings and negativity for 2 months straight.
3. Recommended Books for Theory
The guide categorizes book recommendations into “Minor” and “Major” subjects.
Minor Subjects
- Histology: Raffiullah, SK Pearls, Rabia Ali, Coffeedent.
- Embryology: High Yield, Raffiullah, SK Pearls, Coffeedent.
- Immunology: USMLE, Raffiullah, Rabia Ali, Coffeedent.
- Microbiology: USMLE, Raffiullah, Coffeedent.
- Pharmacology: USMLE First Aid, Raffiullah, SK Pearls, Coffeedent.
- Biochemistry: USMLE, Raffiullah, SK Pearls, Coffeedent.
- Gross Anatomy (Limbs, Thorax, Abdomen): Raffiullah and Coffeedent.
Major Subjects
- Physiology: BRS Physiology (for concepts).
- Pathology: BRS Pathology (first 8 chapters). For Systemic Pathology, choose between BRS or Pathoma.
- Head & Neck: Snell Review.
- Neuroanatomy: Kaplan.
- Dental Materials & Oral Anatomy: Eesha Notes.
- Oral Pathology: Eesha Notes and Coffeedent.
- Conceptual Clarity: USMLE is recommended for any unit that gives you a tough time.
4. Recommended Books for MCQs
Practice is crucial, with specific revision frequencies suggested:
- Coffeedent:
- Subject-wise: Do once (repeat if time permits).
- Past Papers: Do once, but repeat papers from the last 4 years twice.
- Rabia Ali: Solve as much as possible (the author completed 90%).
- Raffiullah: Revise at least thrice.
- Asim and Sohaib: Revise at least twice.
- Vijay Partab (Dental Materials): Revise at least twice.
5. New Exam Pattern Updates
Be aware of the inclusion of specific dental subjects in the new pattern:
- Content: 10–15 questions are now included from Community Dentistry, Orthodontics, and Prosthodontics.
- Preparation Source: Thoroughly review these subjects using class notes, lecture slides, and key point summaries.
6. Preparation Strategy
- Ideal Timeline: Ideally, take 4–5 months to cover the entire syllabus.
- Avoid Comparison: Never ask colleagues or friends about their progress or study hours. It serves only as a distraction.
- Self-Care:
- Maintain a “me time” or relaxing activity for one hour every day.
- Ensure a good 8–10 hours of sleep daily.
- Mindset: Pray and give 100% of whatever energy you have on a given day, even if that energy is low.
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