Comparison of candidates who passed or failed the final (Part Three) examination for the F.F.A.R.C.S. (Eng.) in 1988

All 484 candidates for the 1988 Fellowship in Anaesthesia (Part Three) were surveyed to investigate any differences between successful and unsuccessful candidates in study techniques, work and domestic factors, and examination history that might lead to better guidance to those preparing for the examination and an improvement in the current success rate of less than 30%. Candidates' views were sought also on the examination process. The response rate was 67%. Forty-two percent of respondents passed the examination. Forty-seven percent of successful and 55% of unsuccessful candidates considered their clinical workload was excessive. Successful candidates reported better departmental support, more systematic and adequate preparation, and a better knowledge of the scope of the examination. Unsuccessful candidates were more likely to have had a personal or family crisis or change in job which impeded their preparation for the examination. Almost 50% of all respondents were unhappy with the method of announcing results.