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AMC Part 1 Resource List

Standard Pathway playbook: AMC CAT MCQ format, core resources, and Q-bank strategy that scales.

Review date
Jan 2026
Reading time
10 min read
Author
Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MSt MRCGP
On this page
IMG pathwayThis guide is updated for 2026 regulations (UK/US/Aus/Can). Always verify with official bodies.
For Standard Pathway candidates, AMC Part 1 (CAT MCQ) is a volume-and-precision exam. The winning strategy is disciplined Q-bank execution anchored to a small set of high-yield references.

Exam format (AMC CAT MCQ)

The AMC CAT MCQ examination consists of 150 multiple choice questions (single best answer) in one sitting. Train under timing from week 1; speed is part of competence.
Core references (keep it tight): John Murtagh’s General Practice (bread-and-butter primary care reasoning), Australian Medicines Handbook / therapeutic decision frameworks, Australian-style emergency priorities, and a single Q-bank as your engine.
1

Step 1 — 12–16 week plan (minimum viable)

Weeks 1–2: baseline test + error-log system. Weeks 3–10: daily timed blocks + review. Weeks 11–14: mixed sets + weak-area sprints. Final 2 weeks: full-length simulations + polishing.
2

Step 2 — Q-bank method

Do timed sets, then review for concepts, not just answers. Every missed question must produce: (a) the correct rule, (b) the trap you fell into, and (c) the trigger phrase you’ll recognise next time.
3

Step 3 — Build a “Murtagh index”

Create a shortlist of high-frequency presentations (chest pain, SOB, abdo pain, headache, fever, back pain, dizziness, rash, depression/anxiety, diabetes, hypertension) and cross-link them to your Q-bank misses.
4

Step 4 — Mock exams

Two full mocks minimum under strict timing. If your score fluctuates wildly, your pacing and question-selection discipline is unstable — fix that before adding more content.
5

Step 5 — Book logistics early

Seat availability is variable. Book the exam first, then structure your plan around the date. Avoid “infinite prep.”

High-leverage habit

Keep an error-log with 30–50 recurring rules. Review it daily. This is the fastest way to convert misses into points.
SourceAustralian Medical Council: AMC CAT MCQ examination (official)
Open Link
SourceAMC PDF: MCQ Examination Specifications (structure + timing)
Open Link
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  • Weeks 1–2: baseline test + error-log system. Weeks 3–10: daily timed blocks + review. Weeks 11–14: mixed sets + weak-area sprints. Final 2 weeks: full-length simulations + polishing.

    Return to this section

  • Do timed sets, then review for concepts, not just answers. Every missed question must produce: (a) the correct rule, (b) the trap you fell into, and (c) the trigger phrase you’ll recognise next time.

    Return to this section

  • Create a shortlist of high-frequency presentations (chest pain, SOB, abdo pain, headache, fever, back pain, dizziness, rash, depression/anxiety, diabetes, hypertension) and cross-link them to your Q-bank misses.

    Return to this section

  • Two full mocks minimum under strict timing. If your score fluctuates wildly, your pacing and question-selection discipline is unstable — fix that before adding more content.

    Return to this section

  • Seat availability is variable. Book the exam first, then structure your plan around the date. Avoid “infinite prep.”

    Return to this section

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