Books teach the method. Q-banks test the application. Both have a role.
Classic textbooks: "Pharmacy Calculations" (Rees/Smith), "Pharmaceutical Calculations" (Ansel). Systematic coverage of all calculation types — IV infusion rates, dose adjustments, dilutions, concentrations, displacement values.
When books add value: Learning the mathematical method for unfamiliar calculation types. Understanding the reasoning behind each calculation approach. Building the foundation before timed practice.
When books are not enough: Books do not replicate CRA time pressure (3 minutes per question). Books do not use the free-entry format. Books cannot adapt to your weak calculation types.
Digital complement: Daily timed calculation practice on digital platforms. iatroX adaptive calculation questions. Pre-Reg Shortcuts timed calculation webinars.
BNF as a calculation resource: Many Part 1 questions require extracting dosing data from BNF-style entries. Practise this skill separately — the maths may be simple, but finding the correct data is where errors occur.
Strategy: Book for learning methods (first 2 weeks). Digital for timed practice (remaining weeks). BNF navigation practice throughout.