Mastering MRCOG Part 1 SBA Questions
The Single Best Answer format rewards technique as much as knowledge. Here are the strategies that consistently separate passing candidates from those who just miss the mark.
6 Core Techniques
Read the stem last line first
The final line of every SBA question tells you exactly what is being asked. Read it before reading the clinical scenario so you know what information to extract as you read. This prevents re-reading and saves roughly 10 seconds per question — which adds up to over 37 minutes across the full exam.
Use aggressive elimination
In a 5-option SBA, you rarely need to identify the single best answer outright. Instead, eliminate the 3 clearly wrong options. You are then choosing between 2 — much better odds. Most candidates who struggle spend time deliberating all 5 options when 3 can be crossed off in seconds.
Identify the "distractor" pattern
MRCOG SBAs commonly use distractors: options that are partially correct or true in a different context. A drug that is used in obstetrics but not for the specific indication in the question is a classic distractor. Always ask: "Is this the best answer for THIS specific scenario?" not just "Is this ever true?"
Watch for absolute language
Options containing words like "always", "never", "only", or "must" are almost always wrong in medicine. The correct answer in SBA questions usually contains qualified language: "most commonly", "first-line", "typically", "in most cases". Use this as a quick filter when stuck.
Do not overthink statistical questions
Statistics questions in MRCOG Part 1 follow predictable patterns. Learn the formulae for sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, NNT and likelihood ratios. The calculations are rarely complex — the challenge is knowing which formula to apply. Practice 5–10 statistics questions daily in Month 1.
Manage time with the flag-and-return method
Budget 48 seconds per question (90 minutes ÷ 112 questions). If you cannot decide within 45 seconds, mark a provisional answer, flag the question, and move on. Return to flagged questions in the final 10–15 minutes. Never leave a question blank — there is no negative marking.
Common SBA Traps to Avoid
The "mostly true" distractor
An antibiotic that is used in pregnancy but not for the specific infection described
Outdated guideline reference
An option based on an older RCOG guideline that has since been updated
Mechanism vs. clinical use confusion
Choosing a drug based on its mechanism when the question asks about clinical first-line choice
Overdosing on detail
Reading too deeply into demographic clues that are irrelevant red herrings
Changing correct answers
Second-guessing your first instinct — studies show first answers are correct more often
What Separates 65% from 75% Scores
The difference between a bare pass and a comfortable pass in MRCOG Part 1 is almost always question technique, not raw knowledge. Candidates scoring 75%+ typically:
- →Complete at least 1,500 practice questions before the exam
- →Review every wrong answer — not just the explanation, but why they chose incorrectly
- →Do at least 4 full timed mock papers in the final month
- →Know the current RCOG Green-top guidelines for high-yield topics
- →Never leave any question blank (no negative marking)
Put these techniques into practice
1,750 MRCOG Part 1 SBA questions with detailed explanations. Start with 50 free questions — no card needed.
Start Practising Free →