Demographics and study practices of psychiatry trainees sitting the RANZCP written examinations

Abstract

Objectives: This study explored trainee preparation for the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP) written examinations. We examined the relationship between candidates’ prior psychiatry experience, preparation techniques and expenses, perceptions of the exam and a pass result. We also examined perceptions of well-being. Method: A web-based survey was sent to RANZCP trainees. The association between responses and exam outcome was analysed using SPSS Statistics 23. Results: A total of 23% ( n = 38) of the cohort responded to the survey. Respondents studied for an average of 7.8 months for the essay-style exam and 4.4 months for the multiple-choice questions. The mean months of total psychiatry experience prior to sitting was 36.1 months. Every additional 50 hours of study increased odds of passing by 23%. Respondents who believed that exam preparation would affect outcome had an almost 4-fold higher odds of passing than those who did not. Ratings of well-being before release of results were also positively associated with passing. Conclusions Trainees are sitting the written exams with clinical experience commensurate with RANZCP recommendations. Total study hours and favourable perceptions of exam processes appear to be predictors of success.