What is MRCPsych Paper A?
MRCPsych Paper A is the first written examination of the MRCPsych (Membership of the Royal College of Psychiatrists). It tests the scientific and theoretical basis of psychiatry, behavioural science, human development, neuroscience, psychopharmacology, and descriptive psychopathology and classification.
How is Paper A structured?
Paper A is a three-hour written paper of roughly 150 questions, combining single-best-answer multiple choice questions (MCQs) and extended matching items (EMIs), blueprinted across the RCPsych syllabus.
Do you cover Paper B as well?
Yes. MRCPsych Prep covers both written papers. Paper A tests the scientific and theoretical basis of psychiatry (five sections); Paper B tests critical review and the clinical topics (nine sections, including general adult, old age, forensic, child and adolescent, and learning disability). You get a blueprint-weighted mock for each paper, plus section practice across all 14 sections.
What is the pass mark for Paper A?
The pass mark is set for each sitting using a modified Angoff standard-setting method rather than a fixed percentage, so it varies slightly between diets but typically falls in the region of the high-50s to mid-60s per cent. Always check the RCPsych website for the current standard.
How many questions should I do to prepare?
Most candidates benefit from working through a large bank several times, focusing on explanations and weak areas. Our bank has 1,008 questions across all 14 sections, each with a worked explanation and a textbook reference.
Which textbooks does MRCPsych Prep use?
Questions are referenced to the recommended texts, including the Maudsley Prescribing Guidelines, the Cambridge Textbook of Neuroscience for Psychiatrists, the New Oxford Textbook of Psychiatry, Gross (Psychology), Fish/Sims for descriptive psychopathology, and the ICD-11 guide.
Can I try questions for free?
Yes, you can answer five real exam questions free, with no signup and no card. Full access (the full question bank, mock papers, and weakness tracking) starts at £39 for a one-time access window.
Are EMIs harder than MCQs?
EMIs present a themed option list and several vignettes to match against it. They reward pattern recognition and careful reading. Our bank includes EMIs in every section so you can practise the format.
Does the bank track my weak areas?
Yes. After you answer questions, the weakness tracker highlights subtopics where you are scoring below 60% and points you to the relevant chapter, so you can revise efficiently.
Is MRCPsych Prep affiliated with the Royal College of Psychiatrists?
No. MRCPsych Prep is an independent revision resource and is not affiliated with, or endorsed by, the Royal College of Psychiatrists.
How long should I revise for Paper A?
A common approach is 8-12 weeks of consistent daily questions alongside targeted reading. See our 12-week study plan for a week-by-week structure.