ABSTRACT
The MRCGP course consists of five whole morning sessions held on alternate weeks and is staffed by current examiners. There is a heavy emphasis on preparation work and written homework which is marked with extensive comments and returned with a mark, together with the average mark for the group attending the course. The participants on the course reflect the national trend in the examination, in that ten years ago nearly half the course might be principals in general practice. The course involves two MCQ tests, three PTQs and three MEQs. In addition there are two vivas and course members are given feedback at the end of each of their vivas in pairs. A course on the principles of practice management is held during the summer term for final year trainees. Small groups are used to discuss some of the important management issues in general practice.
